Getting the attention of my kids while photographing them can sometimes be tricky. With short attention spans, coaxing them to look right at my camera for any amount of time means that I sometimes need to get silly. I am always keeping my eye out for something to not only keep their attention but also to make sure they will have fun with it. I love to play games with my kids when I am photographing them to get those natural giggles and smiles for the camera. Any props I can find to help with that are always incredibly useful. I only need a few moments where they are looking right at me to get those coveted smiling and looking at you shots from them. These are a few of my favorite things that help me get the attention of kids.
1. Shutter Huggers
Shutter Huggers are the perfect way to grab the attention of the little ones you photograph. They come in several animals and in multiple sizes depending on the camera you are using. It slides right over your lens and makes for a great assistant. Not only is it perfect for your DSLR lenses, they also have Shutter Huggers for point and shoot cameras and even your phone. They are the perfect way to get instant smiles and giggles. Starting at $14.99
2. Once Upon a Hand Puppet Set
This darling Land of Nod hand puppet set features the main characters of fairytale stories. They are made of soft wool felt and have embroidered details. I especially love the 3 Little Pigs Hand Puppet Set. I know my kids would love the silly oink noises I could make with them. $45
3. At Your Service Diner Bell
If your own children or your client’s children love making noise as much as my kids do, they will love this fun bell. My kids love to ring it while running back and forth to me – they get to ring it if they do something I ask of them, or sometimes I will tell them that I will ring it every time they do a one specific motion. It can be incorporated into practically any game and the kids love the noise. $5.95
4. Fun Wedding Photo Booth Props by Paper and Packages
Fun photo booth props are not only for actual photo booths but can be a great way to get the attention of the kids you are photographing as well. Anytime you can make yourself look silly, there is almost a guarantee of a smile. Add a funny voice with the silly moustaches and glasses and the kids will not only be entertained, but you will have their attention instantly. There are 24 regular and oversized items in this set. $36
5. Boots & Barkley Cuddle Squeaky Song Bird
Don’t forget the toys that are not found in the traditional children’s toy aisle! Some pet toys are perfectly sized for you to hold in one hand while your camera is in the other. There are all kinds of dog toys that squeak when you squeeze them and they are perfect for grabbing the attention of toddlers and babies. Because they are so inexpensive, it is easy to have a few of them in your camera bag. Even if you use them for just a short amount of time, everyone will look your way as soon as they first hear the noise. $3.99
