15 month old on the go!

My daughter is getting harder and harder to shoot. I love to photograph her in park fields etc. where its just nature and her . My problem is, theres SOOO much for her to explore. ANd shes interested in everything. How do i ensure great photos? what are some tips and tricks for shooting an on the go toddler?? I am a VERY patient person, I let her do her own thing, I NEVER force her to pose, or stop moving...

With my 2 year old grandson.... I just use a bigger flash card and hope that I can find opportunities that yield results that are interesting and reflect the wonder of being two. More often than not, they don't, but once in awhile you get a precious one. Good luck, Dennis

You will likely find that a faster lens (both in focus speed and larger aperture) will help keep up with a moving toddler. It also helps to have a longer lens so that you can stand back and let the shot come to you, rather than having to chase the shot. It also helps to have another person around to "entertain" (or, keep up with ) while you shoot.

Fast glass & high shutter speeds are in order.

Also, learn to use flash well (on camera and off); it can really help when there's not so much light around or for fill when there too much light going the wrong direction.

at that age you just follow them and take hundreds of pictures....you will get a handful of outstanding photos. My son is 16 months old and posing is nearly impossible. Just let them be themselves because you'll generally get more natural smiles and expressions.

A helper to watch the 15 month old is always nice too.

Shoot lots! Expect some junk shots & expect to delete them. Maybe consider a 70-200 f/4, or the 85mm f/1.8 so you have some extra reach.
This shows how the subject can affect the exposure & why manual keeps me worry free:
Post #47

Try manual in those tough conditions. First set the f-stop & shutter speed you need. Then adjust the ISO.
Need an exposure crutch?

I use my Tammy 28-75 most of the time shooting portraits of kids. The lens is great, but there have been times I wish I had a longer reach. I could use my 75-300 lens, but the picture quality of the Tammy is what keeps that baby mounted on my camera.

Shoots lots and in RAW. When I am chasing a child in and out of sun and shade sometimes I dont have enough time to get the settings perfect.....but I know I cant afford to miss a shot, so if it is off a little I know I got a RAW file to go back and adjust accordingly.