Are you a Mom or Dad?

Did you recently have a baby or are you realizing that you are missing out on capturing your kids as they grow? Yes, by all means schedule that yearly photo session with me, but take a look below to learn tips for documenting everyday with your kiddos.

Gear

You have some options. Some of which you probably already use or some that might still be in the box or tucked away in a closet.

1. Your smartphone. Let’s face it, smartphone cameras have come a LONG way over the years (my husband and I shared flip phone back in the day and I’m not even sure it had a camera!) PRO: It’s handy. I mean who doesn’t have it on them all the time? CON: Prints and wall art from a smartphone are not the best quality. If you want to ROCK your smartphone camera, I have a mini tutorial just for you. Click the link!  5 Tips to ROCK Your Smartphone Camera

2. Point & Shoot Cameras. There are SO many options out there! I had a Sony DSC HX400 (or one similar) for a number of years.  It’s a great compact camera and easy to take on trips and outings.  Nikon and Canon have similar cameras, too. The Canon Powershot and Nikon Coolpix both do the same thing (zoom capability and a flash) as the Sony.  It’s really a preference thing. PRO: Compact with a permanent zoom lens attached. CON: Can’t switch out the lens and can only shoot in auto.

3. DSLR: I’m a Nikon girl myself. And this is truly just a personal preference.  You can’t go wrong with any of the big camera brands out there! An entry level Nikon is the Nikon D3500.  An entry level Canon is the Canon EOS Rebel T6. You can usually buy them with a lens kit (not always the best lens, but a good starter).  If you need to buy a lens or want to add a great lens to your camera bag, I recommend a 50mm lens (known as the nifty fifty because it is so versatile). PRO: These cameras can do SO much!  You can shoot on auto or have the ability to learn manual and really control your camera. CON: They are bulky and you have to buy lenses. I have a whole blog post on the Gear I Use.

Tips

1. The BIGGEST tip I can give you is to keep your camera handy – this is why using your phone is easy.

2. Take pictures often.

3. Don’t make your kids smile at the camera all the time. Capture the little moments. But, if you want real smiles check out my blog post on getting real smiles!

4. Pick areas of your home that have good light (near a window or glass door), but don’t hesitate to capture something if there isn’t the best lighting. And photos with bad lighting look AMAZING in black and white!

5. If you want to take your photography up a notch and learn how to shoot in manual mode, take an online class or one at your local community college. There are also SO many free resources online.  Literally google your camera and all sorts of free tutorials will come up!

Also, Katelyn James – an amazing wedding photographer in Virginia – has a fabulous video on how she captures her family’s everyday moments. It’s worth a watch! And although she is a professional photographer with pro gear, her tips are great for any parent!The most important tip on documenting everyday is to have FUN!Did you enjoy this info or learn something new?  Please share it with a friend or subscribe to my newsletter!

Natasha Sewell