How To Take Better Pictures Of Your Kids With Your Mobile Phone

child-iphone
January 4, 2013 10:01 am By Veronica Armstrong
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I’m a professional photographer so it’s probably needless to say but I’m a picture fiend. If I’m not wearing a big camera or shooting instant film with my kids (they love seeing the pictures develop before their eyes) I’m probably snapping away on my iPhone. Mobile phone technology has improved drastically in recent years and today’s cell phone cameras make it easy to snap awesome pictures of your children wherever you are.

I love candid and low-key mobile photos. Shooting with my camera phone allows me to be discreet and capture my children in the moment as they are. Most mobile cameras have enough megapixels to allow you to make decent quality prints out of your snapshots. Don’t leave all your memories on your phone. Mobile photography is a low stress and fun way to record your kids’ childhood. Here are a few tips for taking better pictures of your kids with your mobile phone.

Use natural light

Just say no to flash. It rarely enhances a photo. In most cases using your flash will create harsh and unflattering shadows in your photo and maximize imperfections. Sometimes you’ll even get freaky red eyes. Avoid it if you can.

If there’s a photo-op that you don’t want to miss of course use your flash to help you preserve the memory but if you’re trying to create a nice quality portrait use natural light when possible.

Head outside with the kids, open the blinds or curtains, or place the kids by a window. Natural light isn’t limiting. There are lots of options if you’re willing to get creative.

Keep it simple

Try to remove distracting elements from your photos. If the house is a mess try a cute close up portrait. Avoid posing your children or acting crazy to attract their attention. I’m not judging you. I’ve been there. After taking thousands of pictures of my kids a month (no judging!) I’ve learned that the photos that speak most to my heart are those that weren’t staged.

Forget the crazy headbands and elaborate poses. Focus on the sweet simplicity of your kids being kids.

Tell a story

I mentioned above that you might want to avoid photographing household clutter but sometimes you want to do the opposite. Consider taking a photojournalistic approach to your family snapshots. Tell a story with your photos.

Don’t just take one photo and walk away. Capture the scene. If your kids are finger painting take a photo of the supplies, the kids in action, the fun they’re having making a mess, and the finished product. Make a little photo book for yourself and the grandparents.

If it seems daunting don’t be discouraged. With a little practice it becomes second nature and before you know it your phone’s camera roll will be filled with share worthy shots of your cuties.

Do you have any tips for taking awesome pictures with your mobile phone?

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