A Really good trick to capturing your subject in a beautiful portrait is to get on to the same level as them or “connect” with them as an individual.
This is especially important when working with children’s portraiture,
Take the time to talk with the kids involved and see what they are in to,
Say, what TV show is their favourite?
Or who is their best friend, what their name is and what makes them feel happy in their young lives.
To always be observant of your subject is a really strong angle when making imagery as it is often (and I have been quoted as saying) “it is the moment’s between moment’s that make for a great session.” This is also apparent in Wedding Photography.
Take time with the family and try not to rush through the capture of your content as this will only get people off side and expression wise detracts from what you need to create— stunning natural imagery.
Canberra is no different from any where in Australia or the rest of the world and I believe kids are just kids so if Mum and Dad are paying you well to make terrific shots then make sure you get the content before leaving site.
Site is a key word here as a lot of my portraits are made on site, close to or in the comfort of their own homes; people definitely relax a lot more when there is that homely element for them to be photographed in.
And that being said if you are doing studio portraiture at your workplace/studio, try and add to the vibe and feel of the shoot an element of comfort and relaxation where your people can just move around and feel comfort and at ease with the camera.
Not everyone has had experience in front of the camera and to be honest it is probably about (in my experience) only 10 to 20% of people that actually like their picture being taken,
That is why it is so important to make it a fun endeavour and not a chore or cumbersome.
I have been photographing family portraits in Canberra and surrounds for about 11 years and always feel that if you can achieve (to state again) a relaxed environment all the while still giving some direction when things go a little flat as they sometimes can—- then a fabulous shoot that will be remembered for what it was will be achieved as well as the most important thing occurs, amazing imagery is made,
Chris Canham is a Canberra based portrait Photographer servicing Children’s and Family portrait in Canberra and surrounds. Feel free to see and read more about his work at-