My goal is to capture emotion and connection.
I do that by starting with a pose and directing my clients into something even more special and real.
Ask him to kiss her shoulder.
If a couple looks awkward, ask him to kiss her shoulder machine-gun style. You’re bound to capture their awkward giggles and closeness with this simple prompt.
Direct clients to walk toward the camera.
I often tell subjects to move forward as they imagine they’re in a music video (Taylor Swift for a cutesy feel, AC/DC when you want them to get really silly). As they begin walking, I continue to guide them, and if it’s feeling awkward, I’ll yell, “Don’t make me sing it,” which usually gets a great reaction.
Have the parents swing their kiddos forward while holding their hands.
This can be done in a standing still pose or while they’re walking toward you. More than one kid? Put some on the outside and the smallest in the middle.
Keep it subtle.
I want to capture individuals naturally, not with stiff posing that isn’t a usual part of their day-to-day life. For example, if their hands are near their face, I want them to gently brush away their hair, or casually rest their head on their hand.
Have one subject twirl another.
Use this with couples as well as parents and children. Even super-slow twirls can turn out gorgeous. So much fun with a flowing dress!
Ask the kids to run toward the camera with or without their parents.
If there’s more than one child, it’s suddenly a race. If it’s just the one, they love to see how fast they can make it to the camera. Make sure your camera is on continuous focus!
Words & photos by Jennifer Smith
This article first appeared in the September/October 2017 print issue of Click Magazine. Order print or digital single issues from the Click & Company Store. Or better yet, get a 1-year subscription so you never miss an issue!
