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scrapbook & cards today
•
fall 2012
For more great photo tips, inspiration and a few grins, visit
Kathy’s blog at kathythompsonlaffoley.typepad.com
the 3 t’s
If your group is of varying ages, try to connect with
the older subjects and enlist their help. I often take a
break from shooting, put my camera around a
“helper’s” neck and have him or her take a few shots
of the unwilling subjects in the group. Usually, this
quickly gets the attention of the others, so you’ll
have to work fast.
Change your vision and expectations. If mom wants a
posed shot with everyone looking at the camera,
explain to her that you’ll do your best, but often
capturing real life moments makes for the best shots!
ask kathy
Hi, Kathy! I keep a notebook of photography tips in
my camera bag and add yours to it from each issue.
I have a four-year-old daughter who is afraid of the
camera. She quite literally bursts into tears when I
point it in her direction. Do you have any advice on
how I can help her overcome her fear?
~ Cynthia in Texas
I love your idea of keeping a notebook of tips in your
camera bag! Children go through all kinds of phases
with the camera, from hamming it up, to posing, to
really disliking it. To help your daughter overcome
her fear, let her use your camera. Sit down with her,
put the strap around her neck, take a shot and show
it to her on the screen. Then you can say, “Now it’s
mommy’s turn!” and take a few shots
yourself, then hand the camera back
to her for another turn. Be sure you
always end with her turn so that it
remains a positive experience. In no
time, her fear will subside and you’ll
get getting the shots you want.
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4
5
Break up your group. Sometimes,
great individual shots can be even
more appreciated than one
mediocre group shot.
Make sure your camera is set to take multiple photos.
This will increase your odds of getting a few good ones.
Follow your group. Clearly, they’re not interested in you,
so you’d better take interest in them. Eventually, they’ll
forget why they were so upset or why they didn’t want
their photo taken and give you some genuine interaction.
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7
Embrace the candid shot. I cannot stress this one
enough! Posed shots have their time and place, but the
candids allow personalities to shine.
If all else fails, put your camera away, have a little fun
and plan your shoot for another day!
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