Capturing Joy: Photographing Children

Children. Tiny tots. Little darlings. As with any other doll, children have unique attitudes and energy that ought to be captured in a good portrait. And as with any other doll, our love for our children should not impede us from discovering and showing their best side or angle.  It is important too to engage them in the process of portrait making. Children will have fun selecting a special outfit or costume and scouting for the perfect location in which to compose the portrait. Most importantly, once in front of the camera, most children (except Agnes and Viktor Dreary, below) will smile and be playful.

Capturing them in a reflective moment when they are lost in their thoughts or absorbed by play will garner a revealing glimpse into their essence, the one that will remain consistent all throughout life.

 29" American Character Betsy McCall chose this tranquil spot in Golden Gate Park in San Francisco.

Eliseo by Paola Zakimi wanted to have his photo taken in his room with his toys where he feels most at ease. He is a timid lad. 

Japanese Skipper wanted to show her studious side for her application to private school. She wore her glasses and her most precocious gaze. 

Ricky smiles in his 5th grade portrait. He just learned that he made the Honor Roll. 

A first issue Tiny Betsy McCall by Tonner Doll Company selected a dress by Great North Woods Designs. She lives to model. 

 Viktor Dreary does not smile, ever. And that is not a character flaw!

A vintage Skooter smiles in anticipation to a trip to Caneel Bay Plantation. Sunny days ahead is what we hear her eyes say! 

Perk Pioneer "Keep" proved to be an ideal model with his pensive look and handsome features.

 If you have been blessed with many children, getting them all to stand still may prove more challenging. Problem solved! Take several photos of them and use Photoshop "layers" to compose the ideal image. 

Creative back lightning can impart a glowing mood to your little angel's portrait. Marx Toys' Twinkie reminds us of vintage illustrations of child saints. 

 Blythe, customized by Diem Chau and dressed by Sara Lanzillotta, poses in a silent corner of a fantastic fossil garden.

Above all, enjoy taking the photo. The most perfect image will come from the enjoyment of the moment in which both photographer and subject aimed to create an instant of eternity.