I know things are tough right now. Especially if you have little ones at home 24/7, this is daunting and difficult times.
It’s hard to think ahead to when this will all be over, but as they say “this too shall pass”. And I guarantee your kids will come out of this with distinct and “cool” memories to tell of that crazy spring when we all stayed at home.
While some of the time you may want to forget, there are moments to treasure (even if they feel fleeting). It’s important to capture those moments to look back on - (even when you’re wearing the same PJ’s for 4 days straight….)
Since it’s not exactly the best time for hiring a professional photographer, I wanted to share some top tips on how you can take some great photos at home to capture this season.
Good light is key. Have your subject stand facing a large window- the perfect large light source. Even if it’s a cloudy day, light is still coming through. Make sure any inside lights are turned off, so all the light is coming from outside.
Engage your kids and make it an “activity”. We’re all trying to find ways to fill the time, so how about 30 minutes of “let’s play photo shoot!” Let the kids dress up silly or do crazy hair- anything to engage them in the process. (and you can too!) Show them the photos as you go so they can get excited about what you’re creating.
If you are photographing a baby, use a bed or couch that is near a window and face them toward the window so the light falls on them.
If you have a later model iPhone, utilize “portrait mode”- note this only works if you can get a good distance from your subject and they are willing to stand still. Otherwise, it won’t work as it’s designed to do.
Try to hold your camera at eye level with your subject for a good portrait. If it’s too high or too low, it does not feel as natural.
Use a Timer- For a full family shot, set up your phone on a counter, window sill or ledge and utilize the timer feature to get everyone together!
Go outside- if you have some social distance outdoor space near you, the best light is always outside. Going out when the sun is low in the sky (morning or late afternoon) will give you the best lighting as opposed to middle of the day. Make sure your subject is not squinting into the sun.
If the lighting or color is bad, turn it black and white. Black and white photos can be the great equalizer of bad color or lighting and help give the photo a timeless feel!
