2 Yr. Old Pictures

[rouxster]

We were asked to do portraits for a friends child that is turning 2. These aren't party pics, but portrait pictures. I know it might be a difficult question to answer without knowing the area where we be shooting, but does anyone have any ideas for props or posses that we can use? We are used to doing adult portraits, engagements, seniors, families, etc and this is the first shilds portraits we have done.

I know it is unlikely anyone will know where we will be shooting, but it will be in New Orleans City Park. Thanks.

[Preacherman]

OK Rouxster, where did he go?

[naeno]

I have but one word for you....bubbles! Kids love bubbles and you can get cute pictures of him playing with bubbles/blowing bubbles.

Also, have the parents bring a favorite toy or stuffed animal, blanket, whatever.

Do try too many actual "posed" shots. He'll get tired of that in a hurry. Play peekaboo with him, you and the camera. Play whatever games come to mind. High energy, let the kid run, wander, and ponder.

Above all, get down on his level!! Don't stand above him and take the shot.

Have fun, and good luck!

[rhoraq]

Totally agree with the above. One thing especially with a 2 yr old is that when you try to pose or foce a shot they instantly will rebel. I just did some 2yr old shots a few days ago and the child did not want a picture taken. So basically let them take the lead, get down on their level, be patient and you'll find good candid shots of the child. Also just try to be ready at all times to snap away and I used machine gun fire on the shutter. And now when looking at the pictures you can't tell at all that this child threw a fit during the session. Although with this little girl I didn't get any actual smiles cause she was really p-o'd! But they came out good. I have one of them up on my page. The one with the water. I also let her do her thing and she had dirt on her face, but i think it really made a good pic.

[rouxster]

Those were some great tips! I really do appreciate your help on this.

[digitaldad07]

FAST SHUTTER SPEED!!!

I have shot a lot of child photography, and the thing that I always seem to forget when setting up is try to balance shutter speed and proper exposure.

The little critters always, always are on the move, and if you can anticipate this up front, you wont be on your 70th blurry exposure before you realize the kid isn't going to adapt to you.

[lputman]

If the parents are ok with it, award them with candies, like M&M or those little Sweeties. 1 at the beginning to let them know it's there and real and then throughout while photographing.