Being a child photographer is one of my great joys. Children are so free and unencumbered by the self-conscious thoughts that creep in as we get older. It seems to me that the innocent and carefree nature of children is being cut shorter and shorter. Since we live in a world where children are photographed constantly, and are even taking pictures of themselves at a very young age, it is more and more difficult to keep a child from ‘posing’ for pictures. It’s a double edged sword, really. Having countless photographs and videos of your children is a luxury that was afforded past generations. However, taking a photograph that truly captures a moment and is not completely manufactured is becoming a rare thing. And that’s what I love. Setting the scene and letting a child interact naturally with the environment. Running, playing, spinning. Then photographing that. Those moments without the ‘cheese smile’… the moments with the real smiles, belly laughs and the true personality shining through.
If you're looking for an Asheville, NC child photographer, drop me a line! I absolutely love photographing children, letting them explore and run and play while I keep my distance and capture those fleeting moments.
Tip for capturing natural photographs of your children: Give them something to focus on. A flower, a bug, bubbles… something to draw them in and pique their curiosity. While they explore and examine the item, take your pictures. Don’t ask them to face you or look at the camera. That is usually a sure-fire way to get a fake smile. Just photograph them in that natural state. At some point you can ask them, “What do you see?” “What have you got there?”. This usually prompts them to look at you, usually smiling naturally, to explain their treasure to you. Want a picture of them smiling, looking at the camera? This is the time to take that picture. If you child gives a 'cheese' smile the second they see a camera, you’ll only have a split second before that real smile turns fake. Be ready for it!
Molly Dockery
Asheville, NC Child Photographer
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