Dress Up

Have fun and use your imagination. Dress up your toddler and used different toys for props. Let your child choose something to wear.

Camera in Car

Keep a camera in your car. Keep plenty of film on hand. There are so many occasions when we wish we had a picture of our toddler doing something.

Use a Tripod or a Flat Surface

Put the video camera on a tripod or a flat surface. This way you can be part of the picture.

Photo Days

When life gets busy we often forget to take pictures. Designate one day each month as a Photo Day–mark it on your calendar. Capture whatever happens that day on film.

Go to a Park

For a change of scenery go to a park to take photos. Take action pictures of your child at play and some still pictures too.

Zooming

Avoid zooming in and out too rapidly when video taping. A gradual zoom is usually preferred when watching a video.

Digital Camera

Get a digital camera and take lots of pictures. It is easy to erase the ones that don´t turn out. Many digital cameras come with computer software for organizing and pringing photos. Photos can be easily emailed to family and friends.

Telephoto Lens

Use a telephoto lens to take pictures of your toddler from a distance. He or she will be less aware you are taking his/her picture and you won´t disturb the magic of the moment.

Natural Light

Try taking some pictures using natural light. Pick a room in your house where the sun shines in.

Outdoor Photos

Take photos of your toddler outdoors, when the sun isn´t as bright. Toddlers squint in bright sunlight and won´t open their eyes. Early morning or late afternoon is a good time to take photos.

Background

Check out the background before taking the picture. Is the background too cluttered?
Using simple backgrounds puts more focus on the subject of your photo. A wooden door or an empty wall usually work well.

Video Shooting

Adjust the grip strap snugly around your hand and rest your elbow against your side. Locate the controls before turning on the camera. Avoid walking and moving to get a steadier picture.

Red-eye Reduction Function

The red-eye reduction function on cameras often doesn´t work with toddlers. Toddlers usually won´t look at the bright flash long enough to reduce red-eye. Photograph toddlers in areas where a flash is not needed

Film Speed

If your photos are blurry because your toddler won´t hold still, try using 400 speed or higher film. 100 speed film works best for bright light situations especially outdoors in bright sunlight. For general use 200 speed film works well.

Ideas From Magazines

For ideas on poses, props, and clothes for taking snapshots, look at magazine pictures of children. Ask yourself: "What do you like about the pictures?"