So you like a challenge? Children can be the most rewarding and the most
challenging subjects. Babies aren't the hardest subjects as once they
see you pose no harm, mum can usually get a smile with a few
peek-a-boos. Watch a baby as it falls asleep, they usually smile as
they drift off.
 
Generally kids up to 8 years pretend to be shy, but very few are. In fact the
more shy they appear initially, the more of a handful they turn out
to be. The biggest mistake adults make when they meet kids for the
first time is want to be liked and
they try too hard. Say hi when you first meet them and keep
talking to the adults and taking the adults picture, or at least
pretending to. The kids will see the adults are comfortable with you
and so assume you're harmless. They will begin to show interest and
start to demand your attention. Don't give them too much or they
start to show off and get unruly. Crouch down to their level and ask
them their names and ages and a few questions to show you care about
what they have to say. What are their favorite toys, who is their
best friend, what is their teacher at kindergarten like. Have your
camera nearby or in your hand but don't use it until you begin to
feel a rapport. If the kids are small then sit down on the floor with
them. Show them pictures of mommy on the LCD screen and snap a quick
shot of them to look at. The biggest issue with children is the
attention span. If they become fascinated with your camera and want
to play with it, use your knowledge gained from your initial chat to
use their favorite toy as a distraction. If they begin to get naughty
tell them you'll have to tell mommy or their kindergarten teacher.
Kids love role play games with their toys. Using a stuffed toy or two
and a funny voice will go a long way but only if you get into the
character. Kids can spot a faker a mile off and like sharks, they can
sense fear!
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