I decided to write this blog as a reminder of my progress as a professional, and also as a way to share experiences with others. I haven’t worked with many children on-location so learning was even more excelerated yesterday in Peidmont Park here in Atlanta than it normally is. I don’t claim to be the best photographer, or even better than anyone else – but I do think I have always had a knack for looking through a lens and seeing things differently than most people.
When photographing young children, a variety of things come up that you can’t plan for so…don’t. Well, don’t OVER plan anyways.
When I got to Peidmont Park at 8AM on Saturday…Well, I’ll let you read the details over at Bella Sorrisa Photography.
Here are the things I learned from this last shoot, some of which were just reiterated observations:
1. Cooperative Parents Rock
2. Fun Parents are Better – I got most of my ideas from Dr. Marder and his lovely wife and I’m convinced they could be art directors if medicine ever fails them (which is doubtful considering Dr. Marders phenominal chiropractic skills).
3. Don’t schedule a tight block of time: Kids don’t read clocks and if you rush TOO much, you’ll miss some key shots.
4. If you hate kids (which I don’t) then leave the family thing to the other professionals.
5. Have funny phrases on-tap – This works for everyone. If you can make them laugh and smile and run and play the smiles will be more real and your pictures will be better. Once again, if you aren’t personable you’re trying to make your money shooting the wrong subjects. Go point your camera at something inanimate.
6.Use a low ISO, fast shutter, and keep clicking – I got some killer shots by shooting 7-8 picture busts as the kids ran and played on a good size hill. I would have missed those key shots without little bursts of the shutter. Gotta love the Canon 40D.
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