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Photographing a 6th month old
Mar 16, 2014 18:45:36   #
buppy1025
 
I am going to take some pictures of my friends 6th month old daughter and I was wondering if anyone has any suggestions, tips, books.... etc.. on this. It's actually for practice but I want to do a good job. Thanks in advanced.

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Mar 16, 2014 19:49:18   #
Nikon_DonB Loc: Chicago
 
Don't wait for them to pose, since at that age they won't cooperate. If you try to force the issue you will end up with a very uncooperative subject and probably a crying spell.
Set the camera to multiple shutter release(s) and a quick exposure. Then blast away. The candid shots are usually the best at that age. You'll get better emotion on their face that way. Also try to smile or wink at them to keep their focus on you. If you can shoot one handed, get a toy or an object of their attention in the other hand and use it to draw their eyes to the camera.
Best of luck.

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Mar 16, 2014 21:15:05   #
Annie_Girl Loc: It's none of your business
 
buppy1025 wrote:
I am going to take some pictures of my friends 6th month old daughter and I was wondering if anyone has any suggestions, tips, books.... etc.. on this. It's actually for practice but I want to do a good job. Thanks in advanced.


pinterest is great for getting ideas: http://www.pinterest.com/search/pins/?q=6%20month%20baby%20picture%20ideas&rs=ac&len=10

as is flickr: http://www.flickr.com/search/?q=6%20month%20baby

and of course google: http://www.google.com/search?q=6+month+old+baby+photography+poses&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=ikwmU9P-KOnE2wW1oYHIDA&ved=0CCQQsAQ&biw=1242&bih=607

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Mar 17, 2014 07:50:14   #
tiger1640 Loc: Michigan
 
Try NOT to use flash close up as not to hurt her eyes. They are still not developed enough for such a strong light to be hitting them.

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Mar 17, 2014 08:22:30   #
Pine1 Loc: Midland & Lakeway
 
I think I would try to make sure that 1. the baby is dry, 2. fed and 3. awake from a nap. Try to use a f1.4, f1.8 or f2.8 so you don't have to use a flash. Take lots of shots and adjust in PP. Have fun.

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Mar 17, 2014 08:48:54   #
minniev Loc: MIssissippi
 
buppy1025 wrote:
I am going to take some pictures of my friends 6th month old daughter and I was wondering if anyone has any suggestions, tips, books.... etc.. on this. It's actually for practice but I want to do a good job. Thanks in advanced.


From inexpert and often failed experiences with my grandchildren I'd recommend, in addition to what is already stated:
Find an uncluttered background, I mean REALLY uncluttered
Use bounce flash only, not directly at the baby
Avoid flash when possible - indirect window light can be nice
If you prop her up, use something with single color cover
Avoid all normal commercial baby-seat products unless you're just doing a face closeup that won't show that thing
If you use toys or other props make sure they don't have tags showing
Use the floor - for baby and for you
Shoot RAW so you'll have more options in post. White balance can be tricky because of the mixed lighting
My most successful photo at this age was with baby #2 on a scored concrete floor with window light only. I was lying on the floor and he was on his belly, propping himself up on his forearms, with an old fashioned wooden block in one hand, looking at it, taken at about a 3/4 angle front/side. I would never have planned for that, but it worked. Just work with baby and take lots of shots, and see what you get.
Don't forget to do some monochrome versions

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Mar 17, 2014 08:58:16   #
Tom Woolworth Loc: Peoria, IL
 
Turn the heat up if you want a better chance of the young one to calm down.
Pick 3 positions you want mom and dad to arrange the child in. After that snap away.
Always have everyone stand behind you so baby is looking your way.
If possible Pick you shoot location and background texture and color with the parents before hand. This will also give you a sneak peak at the amount of space and existing light you have for that location.
If possible use a 2nd cam on a remote, located at a different angle from the child.

Walk in like you've done this 100 times before and maintain a low voice while passing out directions to everyone.

This link is from my last little person photo shoot.
http://fineartamerica.com/featured/little-bambino-toes-surrounded-by-love-thomas-woolworth.html

Enjoy.. the moment.

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