How to take a great portrait of kids

When I am hired to make a children's portrait the result is all about capturing their personalities. Often times, the parents have specific ideas about wardrobe (which is usually something fancy & starched). Realistically the picture is not  about the clothing , it's about the person in them. So here are a few tips on how to get a really great shot. Hope these are helpful!

1. Let the child wear something they are comfortable in.

2. Let them play. Kids don't want to sit for long periods so follow them through a play activity. Plan to sit on the ground so you can shoot at their eye level.

3. Shoot later in the day. This will avoid harsh shadows and the infamous squinting.

4. Start a conversation with your camera in front of your face. This way they will look into the camera to talk to you.

5. Tell a funny kid joke, start shooting at the punch-line.

About this photo: This picture was taken at Ludington state park. A shade tree provided diffused (soft) lighting. Suckers made a great prop because they last a long time and kids love them. Have you ever seen an angry kid eating a sucker? It's just not possible.
 I also bribe children with animal crackers when shooting in studio. This works well because they are non-staining. I have them hold the cracker in their hands closed. I tell them"I want you to hold the cracker in your hand until it flashes as many years as you are old (pointing to my light-box). I have found this to be a fun game for younger children who are anxious in a studio setting.