Turn off your flash
The pros think most point-and-shoot flashes are lousy. Turn it off and pump up the ISO setting (the amount of light the lens allows in). Set it between 1,600 and 3,200; play around to see what works best in your environment.
Stuck inside? Get to a window
You'll get your best shots outside. But, if you're indoors, try to situate everyone next to a window for a soft, natural light. Beware of lamps: They often create yellow "hot spots" in photos.
"Yes" is the new "cheese"
It's more of a natural word for kids to shout, and it's a surefire way to get big smiles.
Embrace the chaos
Capture the unfiltered moments. They'll be better reminders of this time in your life than a perfectly styled portrait. The most compelling photos usually have an element of unvarnished truth-even if that means a cranky, crying, pantsless three-year-old. (That image will make everyone smile one day.)
Fill up the frame
Resist the urge to put that little face in the exact center, leaving an empty expanse above it. Let your child fill the frame so the focus stays on him.
Photograph them doing what they love to do
Or eating what they love to eat. Toy trucks and mac and cheese can be the greatest photo props ever.
The sun is your enemy
Unless you want to see a bunch of squinty eyes, head for shade. Cloudy days are actually the best; the filtered light makes everyone look good. A bright sun is never flattering.
Turn them to face the light
If may sound counterintuitive, but if you're going to take a photo in the full sun, have your kids try to face it. Try to keep the sun over one of your shoulders. This position will cast light across your subjects; faces in a more pleasing way.
Take inspiration from old photos
Think of memorable shots from your own childhood. You know that beloved one of you and your siblings at the lake? Re-create the moment with your own kids and frame the two side by side on a shelf.
Quit zooming
Move in closer, getting down to the kid's eye level. Your photos will feel more intimate.
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