PHOTOGRAPHY

Of all the types of photography you may have to do as a photographer, taking pictures of babies is probably the most difficult. Even if you're not a professional photographer, getting a great portrait of your child is hard.

The most important rule to remember when taking photos of babies is that they are in charge of the shoot. The whole process has to be based on how the child is feeling. But there are a couple of tricks you can use to get the best shot.

Babies do better when they are fed, rested, with people they know and trust, and when they get lots of attention. So, as soon as the first condition has been met, you as the parents can make sure the photoshoot happens. Now, that's not always easy. If you have to take the baby to the local photography studio for a portrait session, you might not be in the mood for it.

We would therefore advise against taking the shots in a studio, if that is something you can do. If you can arrange a photoshoot at the baby's home, where they'll be comfortable and familiar surroundings, you'll have a much better chance of getting that perfect smile for the perfect portrait. Now, the photographer will need to come to your home. But if they want to take the best photos of your child, they will do what you want.

Another good thing about doing the photo shoot at home is that you know when your baby is at his or her best. This means you can choose the best time of day for the shoot. Actually, if the photographer can arrive during the baby's nap, there is plenty of time to get the photo just right before the angel wakes up. And by getting rid of the car journey to the studio, you can avoid the mood changing for the worse on the way there.

Another reason for this is that babies prefer familiar people. If the photographer has time to meet the child, play with them and get to know them, they'll be more likely to cooperate when you ask them to pose. You will have to be clever about how you introduce the camera, as it can either be an object of fear or looked upon as a toy, and the baby will want to play with it.

When it comes to the camera, think about what equipment you will use to get that perfect baby portrait. You want it to be portable so you can take it with you when you're out and about, which is great for on-location shots. It should be small so that it is easy to carry and so that the child is not alarmed. Digital is best because you can take lots of photos without having to reload. Make sure you get good quality equipment that can take high-resolution photos. This way, you can print a great photo on a portrait-sized sheet.

By setting up the room with the kind of backdrops that will create a good portrait, you can then have the baby begin to play with her or her toys and interact with parents, siblings or the photographer in a happy way. Soon, the sound of the camera and the flash will become familiar to the baby, and it won't be bothered by them.

The best photos are of the baby laughing. Try to play with the child at the same level as them. Mum and dad know the notices or games that always make them laugh, so they use their inside information a lot. The baby will enjoy getting to know you and hearing those familiar games coming from you. This should do well at getting that sweet laugh or smile you want.

If you learn about your baby's personality and how to connect with them, you can get amazing pictures at the photoshoot. This is the best option if you want a portrait of your baby that will last a lifetime.