#OTTAWA, MANOTICK, KANATA, BARRHAVEN, NEPEAN, GRADUATION, FAIRY, DANCE STUDIO, FAMILY, OLD PHOTO RESTORATION, FILM AND DIGITAL PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER JEFF RYAN PHOTOGRAPHY
JUNE 2024
SUGGESTIONS FOR MAKING A CHILDREN’S PHOTO SESSION BETTER
Hello Ladies & Gentlemen:
I would like to share some helpful advice for novice photographers interacting with families, in particular, children. These suggestions from me are based upon my first hand experience running a professional photo studio for several years.
I was asked recently by an associate photographer how I deal with children’s photo sessions in my studio. Apparently, he is having difficulties when it comes time gaining co-operation of younger clients.
Here are some tips that I know will unquestionably benefit you and provide you with a much better success rate at creating excellent imagery.
In the first instance, immediately upon children’s arrival to my studio, I always welcome them with a smile! It’s surprising how much better things work out right from the beginning when they are confronted with this positive image. Body language is huge with not only children but adults as well. The kids immediately recognize a friendly individual as opposed to someone who might make them feel nervous since they do not know me. Secondly, for young children, I always get down to their level. Even sitting on the floor to make my height diminished in size and make them feel like they are face to face with me. People of all ages often don’t like when others are towering over them and this makes them feel somewhat intimidated by my prescience. At this point, I show great levels of enthusiasm asking their names, what they like etc. This “break in” period truly puts them at ease and makes them feel like they have already got a new friend.
At the start of the photo session, I very politely request that parents seat themselves down in an area somewhat in the “back row” of my camera room so to speak. Children are already familiar with their parents disciplinarian methods and when they arrive at my studio, I try to remove that parental control so they can be more themselves.
Well rested children are so much better to work with as opposed to tired infants. This remark pertains to adults as well for that matter. Make certain to inquire at the time parents are booking a session to ask what is the best time of day for them. Oftentimes, mornings are considerably better than afternoons.
The photo session itself has to be pre-organized meaning, all lighting, props, camera settings must be established prior to them entering the area where they will be photographed. Children have very little patience at times and you have to react quickly to keep the session moving at a rate which will keep their attention on you. Keep talking to them showing excitement, good humour and plenty of smiles to encourage them to continue to want to participate longer when getting photographed. Know what poses you want to create in a manner that is fluid meaning, orchestrate your posing methods so the next pose is easily achieved from the previous one. You would not for example have a child seated in one pose, then stand for the next, the seat them down again. Work out a series of complimentary body positions that will flow easily from one pose to another to maximize your quantity of images created.
Prior to the photo session, I ask parents permission to offer their children a treat afterwards for doing a good job and naturally, when our session is complete, I live up to my promise. This also creates trust with both parents and children promoting your credibility as a professional in the community.
As always, I hope this information has been beneficial to you regarding your picture creation. Good luck with everything and it will be my pleasure to meet up with you again next month. 🙂
With My Good Wishes Extended,
Jeff Ryan Photography/Ryan Studio Ottawa
www.jeffryan-photogaphy.com
5 STAR PHOTOGRAPHER
40 YEARS IN BUSINESS