Posing suggestions for a 1-yr old please

Tamron SP AF 28-75mm f/2.8 XR Di for Canon

03/21/2007 12:36:10 PM · #1

I've got a shoot coming up with an adorable 1-yr old boy and his mama.

I've got backdrops in white (seamless paper), black (small-ish blanket), tie-dye (light blue/purple and white), or green (again, pretty small).

It's still too cold to head outside.

BrennanOB

Canon EOS-1D Mark II

03/21/2007 01:01:39 PM · #2

Highchair. You can put them in whatever light you like and they are pretty happy there given that it is a familiar setting where good things tend to happen. You can use the tray to put out toys or props, and after that foodstuffs. Get whatever you can on the more simple backround in more estetic surroundings, and once you get tired of chasing the bouncing blur, strap them in the highchair and it will be a break for both of you.

If you can use a TV set as a monitor to get live feed back to the camera, one year olds love to watch themselves, and their faces run through all the expressions they have. If you cant wire your camera up that way, use a video camera to get the effect, and shoot as close to the monitor as you can so they will be looking close to your direction.

GeneralE

Canon PowerShot S3 IS

Canon 12x IS USM (S3 IS built-in Lens) -- 36-432mm (35mm EQ)

03/21/2007 01:04:17 PM · #3

I may have a similar situation coming up, so I'm interested in seeing any other ideas too.

If the child has light hair/hat I figure the darker backdrop would be better; opposite if dark hair. A small toy (not too distracting) may keep the kid sitting in one place. Light from two sides if possible to reduce harsh shadows.

Take some pictures sitting on mom's lap.

Canon 12x IS USM (S3 IS built-in Lens) -- 36-432mm (35mm EQ)

03/21/2007 01:05:04 PM · #4

Would you believe that - even though I have 3 children under 5 years old - that I don't own a highchair ?

I'll have to dig around, I *might* still have a kitchen booster seat somewhere. Gotta look for that tonight.

GeneralE

Canon PowerShot S3 IS

03/21/2007 01:06:12 PM · #5

Large second-hand stores often have high chairs.

Tamron SP AF 28-75mm f/2.8 XR Di for Canon

03/21/2007 01:41:10 PM · #6

Originally posted by GeneralE:

Child is dark haired, with darker skin.
Mom is light-haired, with light skin.

LeeD

Canon EOS-30D

03/21/2007 01:47:24 PM · #7

I've tried all of the above, but my most success has been to simply put them in a room with visual appeal (ie hardwood floors, windows, etc) and just follow them around. You'll get some great candids that way!!! I do this with my son all the time... let me see if I can dig some up.

scalvert

Canon EOS-5D Mark III

Canon EF 24-105mm f/4.0L IS

03/21/2007 01:57:16 PM · #8

The background color is not as important as having it free of clutter and ensuring good lighting on the kid. The single most important thing is to get the kid relaxed and comfortable. TIPS: Schedule the shoot for after a nap. Have a favorite toy or treat on hand. An interesting toy or stuffed animal that *does* something will work wonders (a bubble machine, dancing Elmo, etc.). Wear a funny hat or mask and do some "slapstick" goofy stuff to get a response (better still: have mom do it). If there's a particular song or type of music he likes, you might be able to get him to dance or clap.

soup

Canon EOS-30D

Canon EF 17-40mm f/4.0L USM

03/21/2007 02:36:54 PM · #9

i tend to tie them down so they can't move ;}

really though - i read an article recently that mentioned having lots of props, and swapping them out faster than the kid can tired of them. this does two things anyway.

1- keeps him from getting bored - and therefore he's not cranky.
2- keeps a constant flow of NEW things that can work to produce a myriad of different expressions. switch from a ball to a feather or other texture - keep him entertained.

try to limit the whole process to under an hour.

GeneralE

Canon PowerShot S3 IS

Canon 12x IS USM (S3 IS built-in Lens) -- 36-432mm (35mm EQ)

03/21/2007 03:35:34 PM · #10

Originally posted by kashi:

Child is dark haired, with darker skin.
Mom is light-haired, with light skin.

I'd try a fairly light-to-medium blue background to set them both off.