February 2012

Lighting - Indoors
A north facing window provides a soft, diffused natural light falling on the side of a face, and lighting up eyes to produce a very flattering photo. Gather the children, or place the baby in front of a north facing window. Move furniture if necessary and push yourself against the wall to the side of the window, to give you support and space. Place the children or baby on the other side and have them turn towards the camera so they are side on and 45 degrees from the window. Clear the clutter but have a few favourite toys or jigsaws on the floor to distract their attention. I find that children are happier with some props in front of the camera.

Lighting - Outdoors
Aim to take photos either early morning or late afternoon/evening to take advantage of soft, diffused light. Beware of taking photos on a sunny day from noon through the early afternoon as the sun will cast a harsh light and cause the photo to look too contrasty or washed out. If you have no choice and you find yourself in glaring sunshine, then find a shaded spot, under a tree, or in the shade cast by a building. I find that an overcast, cloudy day provides the best light for photos.