Photography Tips For Parents

Look Up

Sick of seeing red (eye)? If your subjects tilt their heads ever so slightly, they won't catch the flash, and their eyes will be crystal clear.

1 / 9

Stay Still

Image Source: Flickr user tamaki

A shaky hand can take a picture from bright to blurry. Steady your smartphone with binder clips, and keep your camera stable with a DIY string tripod.

2 / 9

Avoid the Sun

Image Source: Flickr user photosavvy

You may think the sun is your best friend during an outdoor shoot, but one wrong move and you could wind up with unflattering photos. Face your subjects away from the sun and, if possible, place them in shadier areas.

3 / 9

Grab Their Attention

Image Source: Flickr user 360around

Can't get your kids to face the camera? Try placing their favorite toy on top of your head or the camera.

4 / 9

Get Up Close and Personal

Image Source: Flickr user _nezemnaya_

Unless the background is the focus of your photo, try snapping a close-up. You'll be able to capture some amazing details that you wouldn't see otherwise.

5 / 9

Get on the Grid

Image Source: Leah Rocketto

A great tip for fans of the camera phone: turn on the grid option and line up your subject one-third to the right, left, top, or bottom. It changes the focus and makes for a more interesting shot.

6 / 9

Stagger Your Subjects

Image Source: Flickr user rebel

Diagonal lines are more dynamic and will draw people into the image.

7 / 9

Create a Filter

Image Source: Flickr user allan_saw

Forget Instagram! You can make your own filter by covering the lens with plastic wrap, smearing on Vaseline, and cutting a hole in the middle.

8 / 9

Let Kids Be Kids

Image Source: Flickr user nuddaladden

As much as you want the toothy grin and picture-perfect pose, the best photos are the ones where kids are relaxed and having a good time.

9 / 9