Parents warned me their kid goes bezerk around cameras. Ideas?

[keith204]

In a few hours, a family of four is coming to my home studio to have portraits done. This will be my fourth session. The parents warned me that their oldest kid (2 or 3 years old) freaks out when he sees a camera.

What are some ideas to handle this?

[Teachflute]

I would spend a lot of time talking/playing with the 2/3 year old before you start snapping away. I photographed a little boy like this a few weeks ago, who was 3 1/2. I started out by sitting with him on the floor and playing cars. After he seemed comfortable with me about 5 minutes later I said "Hey, wait a second, look at this." I got my camera out, which was in a closet nearby and snapped a picture of the matchbox car. I then showed it to him. I then said "Hey, can you hold the car while I take it's picture." He did. I then said "Can I see the car?" He gave it to me. I put it on my head and pretended not to know where it was. He started giggling. I snapped away.

I don't know if this will work with your client. I would really see what he likes and is naturally motivated to do. Sometimes it's peek-a-boo, sometimes it's toys. I'd stay away from food as it can make a mess.

If you are photographing the whole family, I would have the parents play with the kid and get some natural shots before you try to go for the formal poses.

Child portraiture/family takes a lot of patience and creativity. I've never found a child that I couldn't get at least one good picture of. Some sessions are easier than others.

[potn_momma2]

I then said "Can I see the car?" He gave it to me. I put it on my head and pretended not to know where it was. He started giggling. I snapped away.


Made me giggle just thinking about it, very good idea!!
I have an 18 month old who would rather be anywhere but in front of the camera, you just gotta distract them from feeling like they're on the spot. In your case you don't have the benefit of being familiar with the child but as the PP said, play with the kid and get them to relax and trust you a bit before you whip out the big bag camera.