While toddlers generally look adorable no matter how you take the picture, candid photos often make the best shots when photographing this age group.  After all, toddlers are full of boundless energy and curiosity and have the uncanny ability to make everything seem cute.  From faces covered with food to cabinets that have been relieved of all of their pots and pans, it is these innocent moments of exploration that are the most touching and memorable when taking photos of toddlers.  So, while a professional pose within a photographer’s studio is sure to look great, try taking your camera with you wherever you go with your toddler in order to capture those beautifully candid moments.

Taking Those First Steps

Taking a photo of your toddler as he or she takes those first wobbly steps is an absolute must-have.  But, choosing the perfect setting for that photograph can help make the picture even more memorable.  In the photo of the young toddler below, for instance, the composition and color are spot on.  The photographer managed to capture the amazing clouds in the background as well as the footprints in the sand in the foreground, which only serves to further emphasize the importance of these first steps.  The expression of pride and joy on the mother’s face looks truly genuine, while the bent over father creates a sense of gentle love and adoration for the toddler.  Of course, the naked little bottom and pudgy legs only further serve to make the photo adorable while also conveying a sense of innocence.

Baby-Steps

Baby Steps

Looking Away is Okay

One of the keys to taking great candid photographs is to remember that it is okay for the subject to be looking away from the camera.  In fact, it is generally best to take candid photos in this way.  Consider the photo below, for example.

Art-Baby

Art Baby

This photo allows you to feel as if you are getting a sneak peak into the toddler’s world, which is a feeling you would not get if the toddler were looking at the camera rather than exploring his world while remaining completely oblivious to the photographer.

When being photographed, most people tend to put on phony facial expressions or to pose in unnatural ways.  So, when taking candid photos of your toddler resist the temptation to ask him or her to look your way.  Rather, let your toddler get lost in his or her world of curiosity and capture those special moments from fun and interesting angles that allow that natural curiosity to shine through.

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