Welcome to FAQ Friday, where we accept questions on our Facebook wall and select the 2 most popular questions to answer for you here! Let’s get started!
Here are our top two questions from yesterday, with 5 and 10 likes:
“What are your go-to pieces of equipment/props etc.?” ~ Imajen
Heidi’s Answer: Great question Imajen! We love incorporating props into our sessions, but we always try to keep the overall look of the photo timeless and visually pleasing. We never want a prop to get more attention than our subject. We use our cream colored vinyl floors at almost every session with our cream studio walls to created a light, timeless look. We also use a reflector frequently to help control the natural light and fill light when it is needed. We love props that help keep moving babies and toddlers in one place. Things like suitcases and large baskets can keep a mover in place long enough to pull off the perfect shot. Another thing that comes out at almost every session is our collection of vintage toys and blocks. I love children to have fun when they are having their picture taken, but I don’t want Mickey Mouse or Elmo to be in a portrait with them. Instead, an aesthetically beautiful wooden or vintage toy is perfect!
“What sort of things do you say to children to get them to laugh? Any tips or tricks?” ~ Daniela
Mariah’s Answer: Hey Daniela! There are a bunch of things you can do, depending on the age of your subjects. Babies and toddlers love peekaboo and animal sounds. 3-4-year olds love silly things like messing up the alphabet, singing the wrong words in songs, or funny stories with their favorite character involved. Sometimes Heidi and I will have an assistant play Elmo, and have him appear over our heads and dance. 🙂 For older kids, fart jokes and questions like ‘who has the most smelly feet in your family?’ are always winners! “Simon Says”, “Red Light Green Light”, and jumping/twirling gets kids 4 and up moving AND laughing. Don’t be afraid to get parents involved, too! You never know- the monkey noises dad makes might be the funniest thing ever. 😉