London Mums – Baby and Toddler Classes, Activities, Reviews

Introducing the Mini-Manual
A little longer than our usual missives, the Mini-Manual provides practical, how-to advice on life avec bébé. As we approach the silly season, this Mini Manual looks at taking great baby shots.

Feel the urge to take endless baby pics but fed-up when your works of art are not quite what you’d imagined? Use our tips to become the next Anne Geddes (cute get-ups optional).

1 – Natural lighting
As you’ve probably worked out, babies are especially sensitive to bright light. This includes harsh sunlight and flash photography. If possible, take photos during the day either outside in a natural setting or out of direct sunlight but with all the indoor lights on (this gives a softer tone on baby’s fair skin).

If you’re feeling more adventurous, take photos early in the morning or late in the evening right before the sun sets. Use your flash outside to produce stunning results.

2 – On your knees
Now may not be the moment for those 4 inch heels … get down to the level of your tot. It will make them more comfortable and give you a better view of their features. Never photograph from above. (When taking photos of a baby on its back, stand directly over the baby and shoot straight down.)

3 – Mood
We’re not talking candle-lit dinners to set the tone! But be sensitive to your baby’s mood. If you want pictures of a smiling baby then don’t start a photo session when your little world wide wailer is cranky. But do capture a range of emotions – all moods can make for beautiful pictures. And be sure to get rid of any distractions – too many people, anything that moves or makes a noise.

(A good tip is to shoot using the LCD screen and not the viewfinder so that the tyke can see and react to you. Do whatever it takes to make your little one smile!)

Don’t limit yourself to colour photos. Black and white pics have a timeless quality perfectly suited to baby photos. And with photo-shop you can really have some fun!

What Mini says:
“Alright Mr DeMille, I’m ready for my close up.”

In Part 2 of the Mini-Manual learn to Set the Scene and take Action Shots. Don’t miss it!

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