Photographing kids can be one of the most rewarding yet challenging experiences for any photographer. Unlike adults, kids don’t always follow directions, sit still, or cooperate for long stretches. But that’s also what makes photographing them so magical—you have the opportunity to capture their genuine emotions, playful energy, and unfiltered expressions.
If you’ve ever struggled with getting the perfect shot, don’t worry! With the right approach, you can create beautiful, natural, and engaging portraits of kids. This article covers quick and effective tips to help you take better portraits of kids without frustration. Whether you’re a parent looking to improve your family photos or a professional photographer wanting to refine your skills, these expert tips will make your next child portrait session a success.
Table of Contents
- Make It Fun and Interactive to Capture Portraits of Kids
- Get Down to Their Level for the Best Portraits of Kids
- Use Natural Light for Soft, Flattering Results
- Portraits of Kids: Keep It Candid for Authentic Expressions
- Choose the Right Lens and Settings for the Best Portraits of Kids
- Portraits of Kids Simplified
Make It Fun and Interactive to Capture Portraits of Kids
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The key to capturing great portraits of kids is to keep the session fun. Children have short attention spans, and if they’re not engaged, they’ll quickly lose interest. Instead of trying to force a pose, turn the session into an enjoyable experience.
One of the best ways to do this is through games. Ask them to play a game of “Simon Says” or tell a silly joke to make them laugh naturally. You can also encourage them to run, jump, or spin around, then capture the moment when they pause. When kids are having fun, their expressions will be more relaxed and genuine.
Props can also be helpful in keeping them entertained. Give them a favorite toy, bubbles, or even a simple balloon to play with. These elements add personality to the shot while also making the child feel comfortable. By focusing on fun, you’ll create portraits of kids that showcase their true selves.
Get Down to Their Level for the Best Portraits of Kids
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One of the most common mistakes photographers make when capturing portraits of kids is shooting from an adult’s perspective. Taking photos while standing above them can make the images feel distant or disconnected. Instead, get down to their eye level for a more intimate and engaging perspective.
When you shoot at a child’s eye level, you create a connection between them and the viewer. The photos feel more personal, as if the audience is stepping into the child’s world. Kneel, sit, or even lie on the ground to match their height—this small adjustment can make a huge difference in the final result.
Another advantage of getting down to their level is that it allows you to experiment with different angles. Try framing the child against a simple background or using a wide aperture to blur distractions. The goal is to make the child the center of attention while creating visually appealing portraits of kids. Get more essential tips for portraits of kids in the video above by B&H Event Space.
Use Natural Light for Soft, Flattering Results
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Lighting can make or break any photo, and when it comes to portraits of kids, natural light is your best friend. Harsh artificial lighting can create unflattering shadows, while soft natural light enhances their delicate features.
The best times to shoot outdoors are during the golden hour—shortly after sunrise or just before sunset. These times provide a warm, diffused light that flatters skin tones and adds a beautiful glow to portraits. If you’re shooting indoors, position the child near a large window to take advantage of soft, even light.
Avoid midday sunlight, as it can cast harsh shadows on a child’s face. If you must shoot in bright conditions, find some open shade under a tree or near a building to diffuse the light. Soft, natural lighting will help you achieve stunning, high-quality portraits of kids that look professional and polished.
Portraits of Kids: Keep It Candid for Authentic Expressions
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The best portraits of kids often happen when they’re not posing at all. Instead of forcing smiles or directing every movement, let the child be themselves and capture their natural expressions.
One way to do this is to engage them in an activity they enjoy. Whether it’s playing with a sibling, chasing a butterfly, or simply exploring their surroundings, candid moments result in the most heartfelt and authentic portraits. Instead of telling them to “smile,” ask them about their favorite superhero, tell a funny story, or make a silly face—this will encourage genuine laughter and joy.
Using burst mode or continuous shooting can also help you capture fleeting moments. Kids are constantly moving, and the perfect shot might only last for a split second. Shooting multiple frames ensures you don’t miss the magic. Candid photography helps create portraits of kids that feel real, emotional, and full of life.
Choose the Right Lens and Settings for the Best Portraits of Kids
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The right gear and camera settings play a significant role in achieving professional-looking portraits of kids. While you don’t need expensive equipment, a good lens and proper settings can make a huge difference in quality.
A fast prime lens, such as a 50mm or 85mm, is ideal for child portraits. These lenses allow for a wide aperture (f/1.8 or lower), creating beautiful background blur that makes the subject stand out. A blurry background eliminates distractions and keeps the focus on the child’s expression.
In terms of settings, a fast shutter speed (1/250s or higher) helps freeze motion, which is crucial when photographing energetic kids. A low ISO (100-400) will maintain image clarity while reducing noise. If the child is moving quickly, use autofocus tracking to keep them sharp. With the right lens and settings, you’ll be able to capture stunning, high-quality portraits of kids every time.
Portraits of Kids Simplified
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Taking better portraits of kids doesn’t have to be complicated. By making the session fun, getting down to their level, using natural light, capturing candid moments, and choosing the right gear, you can create beautiful and timeless photos.
Remember, kids are unpredictable, and that’s part of the beauty of photographing them. Embrace the chaos, go with the flow, and most importantly, have fun! When you focus on making the experience enjoyable, you’ll capture portraits of kids that reflect their true spirit and personality.
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Learn More:
- 3 Techniques That Will Completely Change Your Portrait Photography
- The Art of Child Portrait Photography
Hero photo by LeManna via Shutterstock
