Creative, Fun and Easy Tips on How to Photograph Children and Animals

Melisa Caprio

Copyright © 2012 Melisa Caprio

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form, or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior consent of the publisher.

The Publisher makes no representations or warranties with respect to the accuracy or completeness of the contents of this book and specifically disclaim any implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. Neither the publisher nor author shall be liable for any loss of profit or any commercial damages.

2012-05-11

Introduction

Welcome to Creative, Fun and Easy Tips on How to Photograph Children and Animals.

I will show you in this short ebook easy and creative ways to get the best shots of your children and animals. People will so love your creativity, I bet you even get asked by family and friends to photograph their children and pets. You might even start a side business or create a whole new career that you love!

I am going to walk you through some very easy and creative ways to get the best photos using whatever camera equipment you already have. You can even do this with your Iphone if that is all you have.

The reason this is so easy is not because of the equipment, it is because I am going to show you how to get into the mindset of thinking outside the box and get into the fun of the experience.

Here is the best tip I am going to give you to get the best photographs. It is so simple you will ask yourself, “that’s it?” Ready here it is, to get the best shots of children and animals all you have to do is - think like them. Yes that is all there is to it. Put yourself in their mindset and you will be amazed at the images you will create.

Using Natural Light

Using Natural Light. I prefer to use natural light as much as possible. I find it more beautiful. There is something very static about using artificial lighting. And since here we are talking about being creative, natural light is the best way to go. I also prefer shooting outside in a natural setting for a couple of reasons. First, kids and animals love being outside. There is much for them to explore and get into and those can be some terrific photographs. Second, I don’t care for studio photography where the lighting has to be perfect. We aren’t talking about a corporate portrait here. We are talking about kids and animals and what do kids and animals love? They love having fun and engaging with others. So that is when you, the photographer get to seek out and find the best shots.

Now that doesn’t mean you can’t get some terrific shots inside. I would suggest if you are inside to open all the windows. Most cameras now a days have a setting on your camera for outside and inside. So you can set your camera accordingly.

Natural light has made a comeback, not only for amateurs but for pros as well.  Natural light is the new look for portraits, including newborns, infants, children and animals.  Now with minimal equipment almost anyone can take great indoor images.  It is definitely a sought after look, so how do you nail it?

The best window lighting is using a northern or southern exposure. This will provide a very soft, indirect light all day long.  Or you will need a room with lots of window. You should raise the blinds or drapes for the entire room. First I would try taking the shots without any existing lights on. If that doesn’t work you can add the existing lighting but that can change the color depending on the light source.

Place your child or pet facing the window with your back to the window without blocking the light.  You can use your built in spot meter and meter on their face to obtain the right exposure for skin tones. I would also recommend giving your child or pet a toy or something that will keep them still. If you have a tripod, I recommend using it while shooting inside. If not that isn’t a problem you can still get great shots.

- Tip #1 - I don’t recommend using your flash indoors. It changes the look dramatically and the point is using natural light. Go to your camera setting and turn the flash off. Don’t use your flash with your pets. There eyes always come out with red eye or even white eye.

- Tip #2 - You will use your flash outside, it is called a fill flash and it does some wonderful things, which I will explain in further detail in a later chapter.

Any Camera You Have Is Perfect

Any Camera You Have Is Perfect - Even Your Iphone. Most people who are not professionals only have point and shoot cameras. Some only use their phone to take photos. With technology today even phone pictures can look great. Remember this isn’t about the equipment you have, it’s about getting into the mindset of your subject. In this case, children and animals.

You don’t need an expensive camera with tons of lenses to get creative shots that you will love. You also don’t need to hire an expensive photographer. A lot of my photographer friends don’t like hearing that, but it is true. You are with your children or pets the most, you interact with them on a daily basis, not the photographer. So you are the expert here.

I do recommend that whatever camera you do have, to read the manual. Now I know that many people don’t think they either have the time or will understand it but that isn’t true. Take your time, read the manual and take test shots while you are going through it. It will help solidify what your reading and help you understand your camera. By seeing how the same image looks in different settings you can find what you like, it doesn’t have to be perfect, you just have to like it. You don’t even have to get out of bed or off your couch. You can be sitting there reading with your camera and point it at your closet take a photo on each setting to see what you get. I also recommend doing this outside. Go to a tree you like or flower or favorite spot and do the same exercise. It doesn’t matter what, the point is being able to physically see the differences each setting does. The more you know your own camera the better photos you will take.

The same can be done with your phone. I personally have the Iphone and I can tell you it takes terrific photos and with all the apps now available whether it is the Iphone or an Android, you can do some very creative editing. Many of the photo apps are free or very, very cheap.

- Tip - If  you do have an Iphone, look into a product called Olloclip. It costs around $70.00 dollars. It is a 3 in 1 lens - a fish-eye, wide-angle and macro. If you can afford it, it is worth every penny. You can take your Iphone creativity to a whole new level.

Understanding Your Subject

Understanding Your Subject. This chapter is focused on children, I will delve into animals in a later chapter.

Portraits where children are forced to smile always look forced.  So forget about it. Kids are constantly exploring their surroundings. You can even pose them with a flower or something they find while exploring. If you really want a smile then try playing peek-a-boo behind the camera.

Make the child the center of attention. It is all about them, kids love that. This is where that portrait setting on your digital camera comes in great, it usually looks like the silhouette of a head on your camera. It blurs out the background while keeping the subject in focus (known as a shallow depth of field). Which is great because it isn’t the background you are interested in anyway.

Follow their lead. Placing a child where you want them to stand and asking them to smile nicely rarely works. Let them roam, explore their surroundings and any objects or props that might be around. There will be plenty of natural smiles, gorgeous expressions of surprise and curiosity along the way. It’s your job to catch those moments, not force them.

If you have children or ever spent time with them and watch, you will notice all those moments of quirks, frowns, grimaces, grins and funny faces that really show their personality when caught on film.  If they are old enough a great way to get some wonderful expressions is to ask them questions. Kids love to learn and have wonderful imaginations. Ask them what lives in the tree or ocean. What does the world look like when they are upside down or laying on their backs… etc..

Make them feel at home. If you are in a rush, I recommend shooting at another time, remember you have to think like a child and have patience. As I am sure you are aware children don’t perform on command, so sometimes you just have to be patient and let them get used to where they are and what’s going on. Shoot somewhere that is special and meaningful to you, whether it’s your backyard, a playground, the beach, the woods or on vacation. Children relax when they feel safe and comfortable. And that is what you want.

Don’t put the camera down! Every moment with kids is an opportunity for a terrific and creative shot. And you might have noticed they don’t tend to stay in one place for very long. Just keep shooting, don’t worry if you have tons of similar images. And if the child just wants to make goofy faces, let them. If you keep photographing for long enough, they will stop and eventually you will see the real them.

Making It Fun

Making It Fun. It’s very important for both kids and animals to make taking photos fun. If you think about it both children and pets love to run around and play.

So lets learn to make it fun. If you are a budding photographer, or just want to get the best photos possible of your children, or your friends children then you have to make it exciting! Making photo shoots fun and enjoyable means that your kids will want to do it again, and again. Even make up a secret and fun word that means, “it’s time to take pictures again.” Children love that.

Talk and engage them, ask question about: where they go to school, best friends, favorite TV shows, movies, music, books, games, etc., recent or upcoming parties or sports and anything that is their favorite things to do. If they aren’t your children, make sure you ask the parents what they like and do that.

Using props is always good, use their favorite toy or you can play with bubbles. Have them play peek-a-boo from under a blanket. This of course also applies to animals. The choices are endless, so use your imagination. Anything that you can think of that is fun!

Sometimes getting the best pose can be achieved by distracting them with a funny face or a toy. Something that interests the child will probably arouse the pet’s curiosity also. Make sure it is something that will hold their interest long enough for you to focus and snap the picture. If that isn’t working and you can’t get their attention, just photograph them engaged in what they are doing. You will be surprised at the images you will get.

Have you ever noticed that all children love to sing and dance? Well use that, sing their favorite songs. All kids love Happy Birthday, or sing their favorite songs but mess up the words really bad. You could sing a made-up song about them, using their name. Play music that they will love, something that they can dance to.  Playing in the sand, or climbing monkey bars, going swimming. The possibilities are endless! And remember take tons of shots.

Sleepy Baby Photos Part 1

Sleepy Baby Photos. A new trend going around is taking newborns and posing them while they are sleeping. I am going to give you some simple tips on how to do this easily and be creative.

Although these are easy to do they take a lot of time. Much more time than doing photographs of children or animals. The best time to do these pictures is within the first month of the baby being born. The reason is because newborns sleep most of the time, as I am sure any parent can tell you. After a month the baby starts to be awake much more and moving around. It is also harder to position them. I recommend setting aside at least most of an afternoon or morning to do this. Another reason is you will have to stop quite a lot because of feedings, crying, burping and of course diaper changes.

I prefer to shoot the babies nude, and so do many of the parents that do them or have them done. So here is a little tip, make sure you put some kind of plastic or diaper pad underneath a blanket or rug or fabric that you place the baby on. Babies go to the bathroom a lot and you will find yourself constantly having to stop, clean up the baby and change blankets…etc. Having the plastic underneath will stop it from seeping onto the bed, couch,  floor or basket; you get the idea. I would also recommend having many blankets on hand. It takes a lot less time to change out a blanket than have to wash and dry one.

If you do want to have a diaper on the baby than I recommend coming up with creative ways to hide the diaper. For example, placing the baby in a bucket or a basket and using a blanket to cover up the diaper. You can even use different fabrics, be creative, use fake animal fur or spread yarn around.  You can drape the baby in silk, place beautiful flowers around. Again use your imagination!

Using props is another great way to dress up the baby while she or he is sleeping. You will be amazed at how newborns can sleep through changing them, moving them and positioning them. Use little costumes especially made for them. You can use hats, or bonnets even draping them in jewelry. Have them with their little arm around a stuffed animal. You could even paint their little faces if you like. But, please make sure it is water based, safe and easy to get off. Babies skin can be very delicate so it is imperative that what you use is very safe. I also would never do that to other parents children unless  they ask you to. And still I would be cautious, it’s better if you know them very well.

Sleep Baby Photos Part 2

Now I want to talk about lighting. Again, I recommend using natural light if at all possible. With babies a softer glow is much better falling across their skin. Whatever room you are photographing in, open all the windows. It is also good to know what time of day the best light is coming into the room.

If you cannot get enough light, here is where I recommend turning on all the lights in the room. Here is a great tip, get the whitest and highest wattage bulbs you can buy, then grab some lamps, take off the shades and position them around the shot you want to take. But keep the lamps out of the photo. This will help cast a nice soft glow on the baby.  Also you can take one of those industrial flashlights and aim it at sleepy baby for a nice light cast and shadow. Obviously don’t aim it directly in their eyes. You don’t need to have expensive photographers lights for this. See how easy it can be?

If at all possible and the weather permits, taking photos of sleepy baby outside can be very beautiful. Remember to be cautious here, you want to be as quick as possible so baby isn’t exposed to the elements for too long. Never place baby in direct sunlight or if it is chilly.  A warm spring or summer day in the shade would be perfect. You can lay them on a soft blanket in a field of flowers, under a tree or curled up on the grass. I strongly suggest that you have a blanket to cover the baby between shots or positioning then take off when you are ready to shoot.  I also suggest that before you even venture outside, you set up the shot the way you want. Take some test shots to check lighting and composition, even use a doll as a test prop, but have everything ready before you go outside.

Positioning the baby is relatively easy but does take some time and you will find yourself making many adjustments. This is why sleepy baby photos are the best when the baby is under a month old. They can sleep right through it. If you want their bottom propped up, bend their legs underneath them and guide the hips where you want. Also using a towel folded under the blanket helps prop them up. The same applies for the head. Putting their little hands under their chin holds up the head nicely to get a great face shot. Make sure the baby is comfortable and secure especially if you are placing them in a basket or bucket. You could even put them in a planter pot -  Make sure it’s new! And this is very important - Get down at their level, don’t shoot from above. The photos will be much more intimate if  you are at the babies level. Another great way to get ideas is just Google sleepy baby pics, see what you like and do something similar with your baby photo.

- Tip #1 - Have an assistant. If it is your baby, get a family member or friend to help. If you are shooting someone else’s baby, make sure a parent is there!!

- Tip #2 - Give yourself enough time and have patience. Sleepy babies take much longer to shoot and you have to go on their schedule.

- Tip #3 - The best time to get great sleepy baby pics, is right after feeding and burping, they usually fall right to sleep with a full belly.

- Tip #4 - Have extra diaper pads, blankets, and clothes on hand. You will need them! Babies are constantly spitting up, or going to the bathroom. Be prepared for that.

- Tip #5 - Remember the well-being of the baby is the most important thing!! Make sure at all the times the baby is safe, comfortable, kept warm, fed, and changed, etc. Never place baby in a position where they could fall, get bitten or hurt. And make sure if you are outside you are extra vigil to the elements. Pay attention to the weather and nature. Stay away from windy days where something could blow on the baby and make sure there are no bugs, etc.  They are very delicate, and this is the most important place where you must have an assistant!

How To Get The Best Photos of Children Part 1

How To Get The Best Photos Of Children. Children are constantly on the move, so use that. You’ll get some great action shots showing movement if you set your camera right. Children on swings, slides, merry-go-rounds, playing sports, etc… These are great activities showing children having fun. Try to be quick. Set your camera to its fastest shutter speed and use a high ISO for ‘freezing’ high speed moments. If you’re using automatic camera settings then there should be an option for sports or high-speed shots (again read your manual). Catching photographs of children in action can create some spectacular images that reflect the total abandonment and fun of being a child.

Don’t stop with just freezing action images, remember variety is the spice of life. If you want to create movement in the images for added flare you can slow the shutter speed down. Pan the camera with the movement and you’ll get those images where the background is moving but the subject is mostly in focus. Just keep practicing, you can never take too many images.

Getting down to their level is very important when photographing children. This will help keep the child’s body in the right proportions. Get down on your knees or crouch down to their height and you will be instantly more approachable. Photos from this perspective also look much better than ones from above, which can make for odd angles.  A great big looming adult with a camera hiding their face can be intimidating. Experimenting with different angles can be tons of fun. You can even lay down and have them stand over you looking down. Remember the point is to make it a fun experience.

If possible, become a camera spy.  Taking photographs of children when they are oblivious to your presence can lead to some great images. It’s a great way to capture the child’s personality. If they become totally engrossed in playing with their toys you can get a good close-up of their expression. Use your camera’s portrait setting to help blur out the background if you want.  There are times when you don’t even need to let the child know you’re taking photos. Observe and pick a moment where they are completely involved and engaged in an activity and keep shooting. My preference is candid shots of children, I find it often produces the most beautiful images when they are unaware.

To be really creative make sure you vary your shots. If you’ve taken a load of full-body shots, then move in closer and focus on their sweet little faces, or just their eyes. Capture an image of their busy little hands or feet. Even pictures of cute little wrinkly bums are adorable. Images where the child isn’t facing the camera can still translate a lot of personality and body language. Move around with them and you will get a great choice of images.

For inside photos, get them to look out the window take some photos from the side or behind. Ask them if they see something outside either something that is actually there, or even better, something magical like a fairy or dragon. As everyone who has ever been around children can tell you; they have great imaginations. You want to use that to your advantage. Anything you can think of to keep their attention will work. You get the point.

Remember don’t force it and have patience.  If a child is not enjoying themselves and is getting upset, it’s time to put the camera away. Respect their feelings at the moment, after all, you wouldn’t like a camera shoved in your face if you weren’t in the mood.  For cautious young children or babies, it’s okay for Mom or Dad to be right beside them to help make them comfortable. I would just advice keeping them out of the image, unless you are doing family photographs.

Children Part 2

Here is a great tip, be as silly as you can be. The sillier the better, as we all know children love to giggle.  You could even use potty talk, kids just love that. Of course if they aren’t your children, make sure  you ask the parents. And please not the adult version, remember their kids!

Children just love to tell stories when they feel comfortable so have them tell their favorite stories. You could ask them questions about their favorite things, for example, favorite color, favorite flavor toy or ice cream, favorite thing to have for dinner, etc. Children get very animated when they are talking about something they like.  That makes for great images. If you want to capture that moment when they are looking at the camera just say “uh-ohhh”. Works every time.

Counting and saying the alphabet is a wonderful way to get their attention especially by saying it wrong.  Children love to tell you you are wrong and correct you. Also singing their favorite song wrong will send them reeling in excitement. Yelling really loud in a funny voice definitely gets their attention, they stop right in their tracks and look at you. You can capture great smiling images using these little tricks.

If there is a specific spot you want the child to sit or stand on using funny stickers is a great trick. Have some stickers of animals, fairies, trucks, etc.. on hand and tell the child you need them to either hide it or keep it warm or squish it. That way you can position them for a few minutes to get that image you want. This is great if you want to include the surroundings in the photo.

Use anything that you can to your advantage like mom or dad.  Have the parents act silly by dancing or if the child is old enough tell mom and dad to shake their booties. Kids find that very funny and it usually works very well. You can also tell children to keep an eye out so their parents don’t sneak up on you. Of course the parents are going to do just that and you will see the excitement and anticipation on their little faces.

Another great one that works is using a hand puppet or finger puppet. Tell the kids that it’s your little helper and give it a funny name. You can have it sing, be funny, make crazy noises play peekaboo, etc. Kids love peekaboo, have them hide their face with their hands or under a blanket and do the peekaboo game with your puppet. They will love it.

I recommend for children that are really hyper to find a way to let them settle for a bit before you start. A good thing to do is tell them that they need to go crazy and wild, let them run around jump, scream do whatever for a few minutes. Make it a game and tell them as part of the shoot it is a requirement that they get very silly for a bit and then the game switches to taking photos. Some children are just very excitable and this is a great tip to help them get some of that energy burned off before you start.

A great tip for little children under about 18 months old is making a distinct sound. That usually gets their attention. Pretend to cough or sneeze, there is something about that sound that instantly gets them to look at you. Remember with these little ones you have to be ready to get that image quick. They don’t tend to stare at you for long, they have very short attention spans. I recommend before you do this, you have all the settings on your camera ready. Take test shots, you can always delete later.

I think most importantly is to give children a choice of what they want to do (obviously within limits). It makes them feel safe, more receptive to you, and they feel like they are in control.  This can work great because kids get tired of always being told what to do. This gives them an opportunity to show you who they are and let their personalities shine. This will make for stunning images. Plus you will have so much fun being a child again. This is how you get creative and fun photos - by thinking like them. It really is that simple.

Animals Aren’t That Different From Toddlers Part 1

Animals Aren’t That Different From Toddlers. Remember what we want, is to get into their mindset or think like them. That is how you get real creative when taking pictures.

Again, If possible always use natural light when taking photos of animals. Avoid flash, as flash burst can, not only cause red-eye, or even white eye but can frighten the animal. Instead try to go outside or, if it is not possible, in a room well lit by a large window. The only exception I would give for using a flash is when an animal has very dark or black fur as it tends to absorb light and a flash can add detail. With dark fury pets you might want to slightly over expose your images for this same reason. Alternatively with white pets you run the risk of over exposing shots so try to find a location out of direct sunlight and definitely avoid a flash. And another thing to be aware of when photographing an animal with dark or light fur is their coats can fool your camera’s meter. A animal with a white coat or feathers can end up looking dull while one with a black coat or feathers can end up looking grey. If this happen just use exposure compensation using the + or - exposure depending on the situation. Look in your camera manual to find out where it is on your camera.

Having sharp eyes is important in any kind of portrait photography. And anyone who has looked at an animal knows how expressive their eyes can be. So make sure to focus on an animals eyes. Your point-and-shoot should have the ability to shoot in aperture, shutter, and manual modes in addition to the preset portrait, flower, sport modes. If so, I suggest using all the different modes to get a sense of how the lighting, colors, shutter speed and aperture effect your image.

It is very important that animals feel comfortable and at ease, so instead of forcing them to come to you go to them. Most important is to get down to their level; We all know how a dog or cat looks when viewed from above, this is the way we always see them. What we want to see is how they see the world! Sit on the floor or lie on your belly and remember to shoot from their eye level or below. If you are photographing your own pet than you know his or her personality better than anyone else. If you are photographing someone else’s pet ask the owner what their personality traits are and focus on that. A lazy cat lying in the sun, a bird who loves to dance to music, a dog that does funny tricks, etc.

Before you start photographing  an animal ask yourself what type of personality it has and then attempt to capture some of that in your photos. For example if everyone knows that animal as a lazy little thing, shoot around that and use it to your advantage. Alternatively if your pet is hyperactive, inquisitive and always on the move it might be better to do your shoot at a local park where it’s racing around, jumping for balls or playing with other animals.

One of the most difficult things is to get your pet to hold still. An easy trick is to let him play quietly and, once you have everything ready, let someone call for him or whistle. This will surprise him and caught his attention and you will have a few seconds to capture him in a nice and alert posture.

If you want a formal pet portrait shot, pick up your camera when you’re animal is somewhat sleepy or has just woken up it will be much easier to keep them still. If you want a more dynamic shot then pick a time when your pet is energetic. Just remember to be patient.

Animals Part 2

If you decide to shoot on location with an animal make sure you choose a location where you can get the best shots. If the dog you are shooting gets hyperactive, aggressive or too excited at the dog park around other dogs, take him to a deserted park or the beach. Somewhere you know is secluded enough that you can get the images you desire.

When photographing any animal try a variety of angles, get in close and crop facial shots. You can focus on just the eyes or ears or whiskers, etc. Do full body shots, tree quarter body shots, lying on their back or side. The point is to take lots of images so you will have a variety. Of course getting close is not always easy if your photographing a very active animal. If you can’t physically get close to an animal use your zoom lens, which most cameras have. And don’t forget to try out the macro setting on your camera, many  today come standard with them.

Include the special people in the life of the pet in the image. Shots with the owner or other family members interacting with them can make the images incredibly sweet and creative. I find the candid shots of people and their pets the best. Lying together in the grass or bed, playing with toys or just snuggling. Those are the kinds of images that evoke the most emotion.

Try shooting an animal from a different perspective than you normally see. So many pictures of animals are always straight looking into the face. Walk around see what else is interesting. Maybe it is their shape or colors. Maybe they have beautiful feathers that you want to focus on. Perhaps the way they move or stand is interesting. Again use your imagination. Think about some of your favorite photos you have seen of animals and try to emulate that. Don’t worry about having the perfect lighting. Some of the most beautiful shots are when the light is dramatic falling across the subject. Even images with long shadow casts can be very beautiful. The great thing about digital is you can take lots of images, not like the days of film where you had to be conservative. Go for it,  you can always delete later.

Animals Part 3

Animals can be very playful and active so rather than attempting to contain this enegy for a posed shot go with their playfulness and make it a central feature of your image. Include their toys, get them to look into camera by holding a special treat above your head or take a picture with them sitting on top of you. When you make your photo shoot a fun experience for both you and your pet your images will reflect that.

Posed shots can be fun and effective but one thing I love to do is to photograph them candidly paparazzi style. Just watch, observe and shoot. If the animal is engaged it won’t notice you and you can get some great shots. Animals like children are inquisitive, here are some tips to get them still for that perfect shot.

- Tip #1 - Give them a treat or their favorite toy

- Tip #2 - Squeaky toy - Use a squeaky toy to attract their attention. Place it behind the camera so they look at you.

- Tip #3 - Wait until the right moment -Cats and dogs and even birds are easy to catch when they are sleepy.

- Tip #4 - Have an assistant - You could ask someone else to entertain the pet while you walk around taking the photos. Try to keep the person out of the frame and the shots will be more natural.

Don’t forget our small friends such as hamsters guinea pigs, mice, lizards, snakes and even fish.

Simple Fool Proof And Fun Tips

Tip #1 - Turning on the flash outdoors is a trick that wedding photographers have been using for years. If you really want to impress your subjects, position them in the open shade or if the sun is casting deep shadows across the face. Then turn on your flash and make sure you’re standing within approximately 10 feet (so the flash can reach the subject). Every digital camera comes with a flash now a days, even the newer Iphones and androids, so use it. Most people never think to use their flash outside when there is enough light. Using a fill flash outside has a completely different effect than using it inside or at night. The light cast will highlight the features, remove dark shadows and cast a beautiful glow to the skin. With animals, I recommend practicing with the flash on and off. Sometimes their eyes still come out red or white even outside. Remember you can always delete.

Tip #2 - With kids, the “don’t even think about smiling” trick usually works.

Tip #3 - Remember this important tip - Think like them, get on their level, your photos will turn out much better.

Tip #4 - Think outside of the box - Be creative, use toys, props, whatever you can think of, go on-line and get ideas and then recreate them.

Tip #5 - Make if fun! - Both animals and kids love to play, use that to your advantage, shoot them in their element. Try a variety of angles, get in close, sing songs, roll around on the ground, the possibilities are endless.

Tip #6 - Keep it safe - Always remember to keep the photo shoot a safe environment especially with the sleepy baby photo shoots.

Tip #7 - Have an assistant if possible - I always recommend having an assistant with sleepy baby photos, always!! Having an assistant around is a great help to distract animals or keep kids occupied, it really will make your life easier.

Tip #8 - Be a spy with your camera - I have always found with my own work that my favorite all time photos are the ones when I am just watching. Both animals and children when they are engaged in their own thing is really fascinating to watch. You can get some beautiful images of them. If you are aware and observe for long enough you will definitely catch some very magical moments.

Tip #9 - USE natural light as much as possible. I promise you will like them much more. Remember the tips I gave you in previous chapters. If indoors open windows, turn on lights if you have to. Really try not to use your flash indoors.

Tip #10 - USE whatever camera you have, it’s your creativity and imagination that will result in the best images, not the equipment.

Tip #11 - Remember don’t force it and have patience. Both kids and animals have their own time table, they exist completely in the moment. If it isn’t working for whatever reason, no big deal, just put your camera down and try again at another time. There is no point in getting yourself agitated, plus they can sense when we are feeling that way.

Tip #12 - Shoot, shoot and keep shooting. With the invention of digital cameras we can take endless photos. We aren’t limited any-longer as we used to be with film. The more you shoot, the better you will get. Like anything else it takes practice. If you keep doing it I guarantee you will start feeling like a pro. So have fun and create some wonderful images!!!!

Summary

Basically this is it. It really is very easy. Many people get intimidated by the camera and think only a professional photographer can do it.

This is wrong thinking. You know your children or pets best. You know their personalities, their moods, likes and emotions better than any professional. You can even take that further to say you know your family and friends children and animals better than hiring a pro. Use that and have fun, everyone will be wowed by your skills. You will see. I am almost positive people are going to start asking you to shoot for them because you have gotten that good.

Just remember the most important thing - Thinking like a child or animal will get your creative juices flowing, if you get in that mindset you will create beautiful images that you will always cherish, plus it’s fun!!

So go get your camera, read over your manual (yes that will help you tremendously) and photograph already!

Bio

Melisa Caprio is a professional photographer with a background in art and documentary style photography.

She has traveled extensively and even photographed in Europe for a few months. On returning  home, she and a fellow photographer collaborated, opening a photography gallery in Hollywood, Florida, showing her European travel photography. They specialized in exhibiting their own and others’ photography; having juried exhibitions featuring local artists for openings to market their work. Melisa and her partner owned and managed the gallery for two years, closing it to concentrate on developing their individual photography expertise.

While focusing her photography on documenting one of her younger sisters with special needs, she was asked to become the staff photographer of Dolphin Human Therapy in Key Largo, Florida. At Dolphin Human Therapy, the focus of the program was to use dolphins as a motivator to help children with developmental challenges. The program was a huge success, and Melisa stayed with the company for seven years photographing the children’s interactions with the dolphins five days a week. She amassed thousands of images during that time. That work has been widely published portraying that population.

One of Melisa’s specialties is portraits. Not conventional portraits in a studio but more as an observer with a camera. She also does pregnancy portraits and landscapes.

Melisa is currently involved in a new project called Postcards to the UniverseTM, in which she created and developed. Postcards to the Universe is an artistic creation–using photography, affirmations, Law of Attraction, and finally, the power of manifestation. Melisa is using her photography images to create postcards; those postcards will be used for anyone who wants to create and manifest their affirmations by writing their affirmation on the back of the postcard. Melisa will take the affirmation the person writes on the postcard and ask them to send it to her. By sending the postcard, the sender is declaring and requesting the manifestation of their affirmation from the universe. Then, in return, the universe will respond in kind— this is how the Law of Attraction works. Melisa will photograph that postcard and affirmation in the person’s own words. If the postcard is chosen, it will be featured on her blog and in her book, Postcards to the Universe. She will then follow-up and feature how they manifested their desires. For more information you can contact Melisa at:

- www.postcardstotheuniverse.com

- www.melisacaprio.com