Photo Shoot of Toddler Outdoors

[mackmittonz]

I'm planning on doing a photo shoot of a friend's toddler (18 months) and I'd like to get everyone's thoughts on what lenses would be ideal. I plan on shooting outdoors and was thinking of using my 70-200 f2.8 for portraits and my 35 f/1.4 for group or more creative shots.

Also, I'm looking for some ideas to get the most out of the toddler in terms of facial expressions or pacifying him if he's not too happy being around cameras.

[Teachflute]

I think both of those lenses will serve you well. One of my favorite ways to do a shoot is to simply let the child play and try to capture natural expressions. The 70-200 is ideal for this. The child plays/interacts with the family and you just observe.

Have fun!

[mackmittonz]

Thanks for the advice. I'll give it a try!

[lesleysmeshly]

Photographing this age is my very favorite. In my bag for toddlers I have my 50mm f1.4 that is my main lens, my long lens for getting the kids playing without being right in their face 50-135mm f2.8 and my wider lens 17-50mm f2.8 just in case. I always bring bubbles, lollipops, noise maker, toy cars, etc. I let them play and get used to me before getting down to business. Usually I am just chasing them all over the place caputuring the true moments instead of the fake cheese. =)

Good luck!
Lesley

[Marzunia]

I always have my 55-200mm f/4.5-5.6 II USM on and it's good as I don't have to get in my daughters' way. I rather follow them, observe and catch the moments. Sometimes simply make a fool out of myself or say sth funny to get the 3 yrs old attention and it does work. Let parents to play with the toddler and you will surely get beautiful pictures without straining yourself too much. I avoid asking to pose although my older one gets cooperative from time to time. Anyway Good luck!!!

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