May 8, 2007

Picture Perfect

Brunch, spa treatments, flowers – all make fine Mother's Day gifts, but for something longer lasting, nothing beats a portrait of your pride and joy. The trouble is, capturing that Kodak moment can be as difficult as scoring two naps past the first birthday.

Below, professional photog Sue Barr, (one of the best with 17 years of experience snapping children) shares her top tips for scoring the perfect pic:

Call times: Make like the early bird. Regardless of the number of naps, kids are freshest, happiest, perkiest – and most photogenic – in the a.m.

Wardrobe: Wee ones looks best in the buff (for more coverage, opt for diapers or diaper covers). Bigger babies should come as they are in favorite tees, tops, dresses or jeans (just make sure they're clean).

Lights: Natural is most flattering, since flashes tend to flatten features. That said, bright sun can cast dark shadows. Your best bet? Early morning or late afternoon. A foggy day or before and after a rainfall also rank high.

Camera: Both film and digital will do, though digital offers more instant gratification. Choose a high-resolution (for digital) and a fast shutter speed (digital and film cameras) to capture quick-moving kids.

Action: For best results, pick an age-appropriate pose. For a newborn, that's generally flat on her back. For infants 3 months to sitting, a tummy shot is tops. Babies standing to walking should be given something to hold on to, like a wagon or a chair. One to two-year-olds are difficult to corral. Best photo ops include meals (a messy face makes a memorable moment) and naps. Kids over age 2 are easily bribed (with the promise of a lollipop or ice cream) into sitting still while you snap.

Cut and Print: Drop off film for development pronto, or download images ASAP. Square prints – 8x8 or 10x10 – look best framed. Stick smaller photos in boxes or albums for a lifetime of relive-able moments.

For more information, visit suebarr.com.
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