Child Portraits

I love taking pictures of kids. My husband says it’s because I’m on their level…I’m going to take that as a compliment because I thoroughly enjoy acting silly, having a jolly good time and getting paid for it!

Always wanted to try my hand at School Photo Shoots. So when Kincardine Toddler Group got in touch for their annual photo shoot I was very keen to make that my first foray into this type of photography.

You see in my studio I get at least half an hour at a mini session or an hour or so at a full session to establish a rapport with the child. That is plenty of time to get their trust and for them to relax so we get some good pictures. My schedule at the toddler group was 34  sets of toddlers and their siblings in 10-minute slots. Could I get them to relax in front of the camera in such a short amount of time? Would I still give the kids at the end of the day the same level of energy as those at the beginning? When would I get a toilet break?…

Thank goodness for a big boot

The Mini Clubman (aka the works van) was full to bursting.  Backdrop paper, studio lights, reflectors, stands and camera gear were all in there. But that wasn’t what raised strange looks from the caretaker when I pitched up at the community centre the toddler group is run from. It was when I pulled out my extendable feather duster, foam sports hand, rubber chicken and giggle bag!!! All very important arsenal for encouraging smiles and laughter from toddlers.

The results

Some of the parents have very kindly given me permission to share some of the pictures of their little ones.

Even when my backdrop was more interesting than the camera it made for a cute picture.

Judging by the number of orders, social media shares and smiles on the kid’s faces I’d say it went well. I learnt loads and before I do another one I need to update the postage and delivery admin side of things. All handy stuff that is easy to fix.

As for me, I loved every second and the toddlers fed my energy and made sure I gave the last kids (four brothers) as much fun as the first one. One mum, in particular, an angel by the name of Naike, made me a cup of tea that I will be eternally grateful for. And you’ll be pleased to know I managed two toilet breaks 😉