Scenario:
You are trying to engage a young child (under 5) in a photoshoot to get some amazing photos with shows their genuine personality but this kid is shy or upset or just plain doesn't want to play ball. Let me start with...you can not win them all but most of the time you can witness and capture children laughing and playing and being themselves... just precious.
Take the time
We all know kids are on their own schedule and in their own world. You can't force a smile and get genuine results. More than anything kids just want to play and explore. Don't worry so much about the perfect background, let the children just go their own way and capture them during play. If the young ones aren't warming up to you so quickly, try just doing something nearby and see if you can peak their interest.
Ok so now your buddies.
Engage them, play games, ask them to help you with something or if they are curious about the camera let them see it. Ask questions and see if you can find out what makes them laugh. A not-so secret topic - toilet humour goes pretty far with the under five crowd.
Time to try a snap...or two.
You can take photos of something close by and ask the child a question, have them say a funny phrase (not cheese) or ask them to do something you know will make them laugh and capture an authentic moment here. If they still don't respond well , they are going to make you earn it. Pay lots of attention to them with the camera down. Maybe give them some space to play and use a zoom lens to photograph them playing while not paying attention to you. After a while try again.
Secret Weapons
Bring their favourite person to the photoshoot , grandpa an uncle or close friend?
Older siblings are the number one secret weapon to make the little ones laugh.
Bribery - don't ask for smiles but a little bribery to become friends is a solid foundation for a relationship with a little kid.
Reverse psychology - admittedly this one works only about 20% of the time but when it does , phew its such a relief -" Don't you smile!"
Funny noises - got a killer duck impression, a good comedic sneeze or a classic raspberry? Noises can get a quick glimpse at the camera if you want some eye-contact.
Be Patient, Be Kind, Be playful.
Is it high time your in some of the family photos? Book a family session with me!
