Reconditioning Kids & the Camera

1. Drop the Instructions. Use conversation instead.

Cheesy smiles and uncooperative kids with the camera, are most often a
result of the way we approach photography. Our kids are used to hearing
us issue instructions throughout the day about what they can and cannot
do. When photography becomes one more thing that requires obedience
it’s no wonder we see a bit of defiance!

Try using moments of photography to have a bit of conversation! Ask
funny questions. Use your imagination. Make the moment playful, and
watch how the expressions and willingness to participate magically change!

2. Learn to love images not looking at the camera.

We love to see the faces of our kids, but images where they are not looking
at the camera can often hold a greater amount of intrigue and story.

3. Quietly integrate the camera into the moment.

Instead of the camera being an interruption of an activity, begin to quietly
integrate the camera into your family activities. This helps the camera
begin to go unnoticed and be less obtrusive to the experience.

4. Don’t let the camera always be a barrier to connecting with your
subjects.

Its much harder to connect with someone when you can’t see their face.
Learning to photograph with your face not behind the camera helps to
invite true emotional connection in your images. Simply frame the shot as
you like and hold the camera in place while moving your face to the side for
some good conversation to bring great emotion!