Hey mama! Photographing your kiddos as “who they are” in each stage in life is the best way to remember the everyday moments. This is a great activity to do every 3-6 months. Make a note in your calendar or planner to remind you and you will be so happy you did! These photos should be quick and fun, no more than 15 minutes max!
1.) A Portrait
I like to take these photos a few different ways. First you can focus on a favorite feature. Is there something that stands out about this time in your child’s life that you want to capture forever? Baby curls? Chubby toddler hands? A toothless grin? A growth spurt that leaves all their clothes too short? These are definitely worth capturing and part of your family’s story.
Periodically I like to get a sitting portrait. Make it simple, say, “You are growing so much, can I take a few pictures of you sitting on this chair so I can remember how big you are?” If they say “no”, give them a choice of when they would like to do it. You don’t want to make it a chore, they should like the special one-on-one time with you. Ask them questions about their favorite things, friends, or school, and have a chat while you snap away for 10 minutes max. At the end, give them a big hug and a “thank you”, or toss them a small treat like a lollipop.
These images of my son were taken just this way. Nothing fancy, he is wearing his school clothes, I wanted to capture photos of how his face was changing and looking so grown up (sniff, sniff) and his newly missing teeth! I asked him to sit in a chair with a dark wall behind him, the lights in the room were off, but there is a window to his left about a foot away. The dark wall and soft afternoon light illuminate his face beautifully so we can focus on what this portrait is all about…him!
2.) Their Favorite Activity
When my oldest daughter was 2.5, she spent her days in dress-up clothes and high heels pushing her baby stroller or shopping cart around the house. She never actually had a baby in it, but instead lots of purses where she would gather every pink or purple thing she could find. We used to call her “the hoarder”, and honestly it drove me nuts at the time having to put back all the pink and purple puzzle pieces and toys to their rightful homes, but now I think it is hilarious (although not that hilarious since her younger sister is starting to do it now!). Whatever age they are, they have a favorite activity—even if it is infuriating! Playing with play dough? Baseball? Splashing in puddles? Making forts in your living room? Video games? Even babies have a favorite lovey or toy they love to watch spin. Capture it, I promise you will look back with a smile or laugh!
3.) Their Personality
Often their personality will come out in their favorite activity or portrait, but I love getting a few extra photos to show all sides of their personality. My kids tend to be pretty silly when they see my camera, so I can get a range of their personalities very quickly. Think about what you would like to capture—if your kid is more reserved or shy, keep your camera close by for the day and just be an observer. A typical day will bring a lot of emotions and you will be ready when they happen. Another fun idea? Give your kid your phone and let them take a few selfies, you will certainly see their personality shine through!
How do you photograph your kiddos? Use #MyStoryInPhotos on Instagram to show me their favorite activities and little personalities!
