I know several of you got new digital SLR cameras for Christmas, so I thought I’d throw in a few ideas here for you new SLR owners. First, you may want to get a snazzy little camera strap cover like this one or this one. From a functional perspective, strap covers are totally unnecessary, but they will make you look super cute while you’re taking pictures (and we all know that’s the important thing).
Next, let’s talk about composition. If you’re trying to capture photos of your child, the biggest tip I can give you is to get down on his/her level!!! I’m still trying to teach my husband to do this. (He’s 6’3″, so yeah, that would require him to bend his knees and squat.) When I am photographing a baby, you will often find me on my belly completely horizontal to the floor. It’s not always comfortable, but it will capture the child’s perspective and make for a much better photo. You also want to fill the frame. Don’t be afraid of close-ups.
Finally, once you’ve taken the photo, print it out! I get a brand new photo album each January to hold all of our personal snapshots for the year. At the end of every month, I try to upload and order my favorite pictures from that month. If you want great print quality at a great price, try Mpix. (This is not the professional lab that I use for my client sessions, but I do recommend it for those who purchase the image CD.)
And since I hate to post without adding a picture, I’ll leave you now with my kids trying to run over me with their bikes. (The girl sure looks determined, doesn’t she???)
