I’m a photographer who isn’t particularly fussed with having my kids pose for the camera.

There are some times though when I need photos of the kids looking front on.

I’m also finding when I am taking photos of other people’s children that their expectations of portrait photographs are more in line with the traditional sort; side on, face to the front, smiling.

At those times I really need to connect with the children in some way, so that I can portray their character through a smile only.

Young children can be difficult to achieve this kind of photo but I have some tips and tricks to help.

*Patience is the most important tool.

For example’s sake, lets just say I am taking a photo of an almost three year old boy (Noah), who has woken up from his nap in a particularly cranky mood. I need a photo of him for, well, his grandparents who are coming for their half yearly visit in just over an hour.

I can’t expect that this little man will just stand, pose and smile for me, so what I need to do is give him time and space to relax and feel okay about the camera.

I need to have patience.

*Prior knowledge is a good thing.

When I am going to photograph him, I usually tell him, “Mummy is going to get the camera out now, okay”.

Sometimes Noah will acknowledge this and other times, I may just get a sideways glance. It doesn’t really matter, I’ve let him know and he is processing this information.

I always find the children are more receptive if you ask or give them a heads up, at least.