Introduction
Children’s photography is an art of its own—capturing the genuine smiles, spontaneous giggles, and boundless energy that only kids can bring. At Sumeyra Kose Photography, we specialise in bringing these joyful moments to life with creativity and care. Whether you’re planning your first kids photoshoot in Melbourne or looking for fresh inspiration, these 15 tips will help you create beautiful, lasting memories.
1. Choose the Right Time of Day
Lighting can make or break a photoshoot. For children photography, the golden hours—early morning or late afternoon—are ideal. Soft, natural light creates flattering tones and reduces harsh shadows. Kids are also generally happier and more cooperative earlier in the day, making it easier to capture those priceless expressions.
2. Pick a Comfortable Location
Whether it’s a park, a beach, your backyard, or even inside your home, the setting should make your child feel relaxed. Familiar environments help children stay calm and open, which is essential for authentic and spontaneous photos. In Melbourne, consider kid-friendly locations like the Royal Botanic Gardens or Brighton Beach for vibrant backgrounds.
3. Use Props for Playful Interaction
Incorporate fun and colourful props like bubbles, balloons, teddy bears, or wooden toys. These not only add visual interest but also help children feel engaged and less camera-conscious. Let them play freely—these moments of play often result in the most genuine shots.
4. Capture Candid Moments
Forget about the perfect pose. Kids are most charming when they’re simply being themselves. Capture their curiosity, laughter, and mischief by allowing them to explore, run, and interact with their surroundings. These raw, unfiltered moments often become the most cherished memories.
5. Dress for Comfort and Personality
Outfits should reflect the child’s personality and be comfortable enough for them to move freely. Avoid busy patterns and logos that can distract from their expressions. Instead, opt for soft textures, solid colours, or classic styles. Coordinating with siblings or parents without being overly matchy also makes for great ensemble photos.
6. Create a Themed Shoot
A creative theme can transform a regular session into a magical story. Think fairytale forest, little explorer, picnic in the park, or even superhero day. Themes help structure the shoot and make it more engaging for kids, encouraging them to play along and show off their imagination.
7. Include Family Members
Adding parents or siblings can make children feel more comfortable and loved. It also brings variety to the shots. Capturing tender moments between family members adds emotional depth and creates heartwarming family portraits.
8. Get on Their Level
Shooting from a child’s eye level helps bring their world into focus. This perspective feels more intimate and authentic. Kneel, crouch, or even lie down if needed—whatever it takes to connect with your subject and make them the star of the frame.
9. Encourage Natural Movement
Children are rarely still, and that’s a gift for photographers. Encourage movement like spinning, jumping, or dancing. These dynamic actions reveal personality and energy, resulting in images full of life and joy.
10. Be Patient and Flexible
Kids don’t always follow directions or smile on cue—and that’s okay. Give them time to warm up, allow for breaks, and follow their lead. A relaxed atmosphere allows their true character to shine through in your photos.
11. Focus on the Details
Tiny hands gripping a toy, a tousled curl in the wind, the way they crinkle their nose when they laugh—these small details are often the most touching. Use close-up shots to highlight these unique features and create a more complete portrait.
12. Use Minimal Gear
Children photography doesn’t require complex lighting or heavy equipment. In fact, a minimal setup allows you to move easily and stay agile as kids move around. A fast lens and a keen eye for moments are often all you need.
13. Embrace the Unexpected
Some of the best photos come from unplanned moments—a sudden splash in a puddle, an unexpected giggle, or a curious glance. Be ready to capture the spontaneity and embrace the chaos. These real-life moments often tell the best stories.
14. Edit Lightly for a Natural Look
When it comes to post-processing children photos, less is more. Preserve their natural skin tones and expressions. Focus on light corrections, slight enhancements, and maintaining the purity of the moment rather than heavy filtering.
15. Make It Fun
The most important element in a kids photoshoot is joy. Keep the energy high and the atmosphere fun. Sing songs, tell jokes, or play games. When children are genuinely happy, it reflects in every frame.
FAQs
At Sumeyra Kose Photography, we believe every child has a story worth capturing. With these tips, we hope to inspire your next kids photoshoot in Melbourne. Whether it’s candid, styled, or spontaneous, our goal is to deliver images that reflect the heart and soul of your family’s journey.
Every age has its charm! From newborn to toddlers and beyond, each stage offers unique moments. We tailor each session at Sumeyra Kose Photography to suit your child’s developmental stage.
Keep the mood light and relaxed. Make sure they are well-rested and have had a snack beforehand. Bring their favourite toy or comfort item for reassurance.
Choose simple, comfortable outfits in solid colours or subtle patterns. Avoid clothing with logos or distracting graphics.
Sessions usually last 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on the child’s age and mood. We allow enough time for breaks and spontaneous moments.
Absolutely! Including family members adds warmth and helps children feel more at ease.
That’s totally okay! Our sessions are flexible and designed around your child’s pace. We focus on making the experience playful and pressure-free
We offer a variety of indoor and outdoor children photography sessions across Melbourne. Visit Sumeyra Kose Photography to explore our packages and book your session today.
