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Photographing Your Baby

It is important to have many pictures of your children at different stages in their life. For me, nothing tells a life's story better than a picture. From the moment we come out of the womb, photos are being taken of us. The first few days of life are when babies are photographed the most. Because children change their looks so quickly it is a good idea to take as many pictures as possible during the first couple of years of their life.

It may seem overwhelming taking your baby's picture. When they are newborn, they don't squirm around as much so it makes it easier taking their picture. The one obstacle you need to overcome when taking pictures of newborns, is the fact that they sleep ALL OF THE TIME! So more than likely you aren't getting pictures of them with their eyes open. Below you will read a few ideas and suggestions for taking great pictures of your baby!

KEEPING THEIR EYES OPEN

The key is to take as many pictures of your infant as possible when he or she has their eyes open. You don't want to sleep deprive your baby so I wouldn't suggest waking your baby up for a picture. Not to mention the fact that your baby will be in a bad mood if you have to wake it up to get his or her picture.

Once your baby wakes up briefly from a nap, the key is to entertain the baby long enough to snap its picture. Use a squeaky toy, or something that makes noise. Also you may find that your baby remains awake yet comforted when you make silly sounds. Try many things to find out what works best for you.

WHEN YOUR BABY MOVES/CRAWLS

It may seem difficult to get pictures of your child as he or she is in a curious state and is moving all over the place. Truth be told, these are the best times to take pictures! Chances are you may catch some first steps or other firsts when you are photographing your baby in motion.

They key to getting the perfect picture here is to not pose your child. Instead use your camera lens to follow their every move! Eventually you will get the photo you are looking for. If you are doing professional studio type pictures, the key is keeping them entertained. You can swoosh a feather duster at them while making funny noises, blow bubbles, or have a toy that interests them. This will get them to stay in one position and may even make them give you a big grin!

CHANGE YOUR ANGLE

Finding the perfect angle can make a photo wonderful! Try experimenting with different angles and lighting techniques to figure out what works best for you!

DON'T PUT THE CAMERA IN YOUR CHILD'S FACE

Instead try using a zoom and paying careful attention on your flash versus lighting technique. This way you don't stun your child with your flash.

KEEP YOUR CAMERA CLOSE BY

You never know when the moment for that perfect picture may arise! Always keep your camera close by, even when you aren't at home!

BECOME FAMILIAR WITH PICTURE EDITING SOFTWARE

You can make a great picture even better when you use photo editing software. Try playing around with the color, and fading in and out certain areas of the photo. I prefer paint shop but there are a-lot of other editing softwares out there that are great.

JUST HAVE FUN

If you have fun with your camera, chances are you will take some great photos! The more pictures you take the better they will get. Play around with techniques that work best for you and you may be surprised just how great your pictures turn out!

Learn more about this author, Amber Richards.
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