Capturing Your Child On Film
Before your child is even born, purchase a couple of photograph albums and a few rolls of film (keep film in the refrigerator for freshness). You don’t want to begin this journey already behind. Then, whether your first photograph is at the birth, the first time you nursed your child, or of daddy giving the first bath, make sure you keep track of your photographs. Get your film developed when the roll is done, and when you get your photographs back, put them in the album. Most albums have an inside hard cover and you might like to make notes recording the photos inside. Don’t forget dates! Photographs are the perfect way to keep up that baby book that no one remembers to complete.
Now your photographs! Take photos that are natural. Try to resist sitting your child up until they are capable of sitting on their own. I’m sure you’ve seen some of these photos. The child looks and feels uncomfortable. If they’re on the ground, you get down there too. You may get them looking at the camera if you’re at their level.
I know that parents love the smiling child photos, but believe me the photos that you remember and always stop and look at again are the ones where your child is not smiling but appears to be thinking and in a world of their own. They make you smile! So, don’t try to get them to smile. This is particularly true when they are over two and you can never get a natural smile when asking for one.
Use natural light whenever possible. I know that flashes are necessary sometimes, but the best photos are from natural or window light. If you are into photography, buy yourself a 35mm camera with a separate flash. You photos will come out best if your flash is off the camera. They do sell attachments that would raise your flash up. Visit a local camera store and ask them questions. If you’re not a camera buff, that doesn’t mean your photos will not be good. Just follow the tips and you will always love the photos of the ones you love most.
Getting that portrait of your child that will last a lifetime is an important decision. Call professional photographers in your area and make an appointment to see their work. They should be willing to spend the time with you to promise you the photograph you desire. They should have a variety of work to show you with multiple sizes, papers, canvases and textures. The choice is an important one, and you and your child should like the person you choose. Professional photographers belong to professional organizations just like any other professional. Look on the web for a photographer in your area.
Lastly, have fun taking your photos. Play with your child. Look for those special moments that are important to you. Years from now, you will look back on the photos you have taken and pat yourself on the back for the memories you have captured.