proscriptive clausewitz: Showing them how it's done

Tuesday, October 16, 2012

Showing them how it's done | The Scrapbooker

A couple of years ago, a couple I knew invited me to take photos of them with their newborn baby boy, James. He was their first child and considering both parents hated having their photos taken, it was an honour to be asked. James was a darling ? crying very little and behaving absolutely perfectly. The photos were a success and rewarded both the couple and myself with some super sweet photos.

This Spring, the couple welcomed their 2nd baby, Jessica. I was again asked to take some photographs of them all. This time, it would not be so easy. James, of course, is now 2 and with that, as any parent will testify, comes many changes in the dynamics of a home; add to this a new baby sister getting all the attention and the game plan changes completely. He, naturally, wanted all the attention. It was a difficult session ? more so for the parents as they tried to get the shots they wanted whilst keeping James both amused and attentive. It is a common theme when photographing families but with a little patience and perseverance, some lovely shots can be achieved.

After we reviewed the first lot of photos, it was decided that a second session be booked. I set up a mock studio in the house and the family arrived. James was on form but reluctant to sit for me ? luckily I had my secret weapon with me, my daughter Greta. She has been unfortunate enough to have a camera pointed at her since she was born and outside of a particularly bad mood, will pose for me just about any time I need her too. She brought down her tub of cars for James to play with, took her seat in front of the camera and promptly smiled.

He was in awe of her. He climbed up on the seat and just sat and watched her pose and smile, and I? well, I got to take this little beauty.