Tips for Toddlers

[xzebra]

I am trying to get some good HQ pictures of my daughter which will be 2 in a few weeks.
The problem that I am having is that I can't quite get her eyes super sharp. Some people tell me to use a tripod but I don't want the indoor photo type but would rather have the outdoor look to it. There is no way I can run around with a tripod and snap a shot with her moving so fast.


I have a Canon XSi with a Tamron 28-75mm lens that I am using. I try to use a shutter speed of 1/250 or more (usually around 1/500) but I still can't get her eyes to pop.
I have tried using AF point center only and then using all AF points.
I think I am just confusing myself! I have never had problems taking good shots until I treid shooting my daughter!!

So I am asking for tips and techniques that you may use to try and help me.
What AF setup should I use?
How can I get her to look at me for a few seconds so that I have time to focus?
Any other focusing tips would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you all very much for your help as this means a lot to me!!

[wulf]

Often super-sharpness comes from post-processing. Get her eyes in focus and then you can further develop the result back on your computer.

Shutter speed won't do anything for focus (except, if it is too slow, you will start to get camera shake). The key setting is aperture - if it is too wide and the subject is close by, depth of field will be minimal, which will create difficulties with getting her features in focus.

One of the main problems of toddlers is that they move around so much. Wait until your daughter is distracted by something, aim the camera and then call her name. Hopefully she'll look up and you can grab a good shot.

Above all, take lots of shots. You can then discard all but the few where pose, focus and lighting all combine to best effect.

Wulf