daycare trying to do our own childrens pictures, what equipment should we use to make professional photos?

Question

Trying to make photos like the ones children take at school every year. What all do we need to get started, and whats the best..

Answer 1

You don't need 'the best'. A consumer level DSLR ($600-$1000) with a portrait lens will be fine. The important thing is getting the lighting right. A couple of umbrella lights on stands with flash guns will make a world of difference. Then- you might also want a background, perhaps with an infinity edge (rounded section at the floor- so that there are no lines, and perhaps some props.

Answer 2

Frankly, it will be difficult to get a picture that looks "professional" unless you have someone with photography and/or lighting experience.

However, that's not to say you can't make some nice pictures.

Without special lighting, I would plan to do it outside in the shade, or next to a fairly bright (but not sun-drenched) window. If you're using digital you can try with and without the flash to see the effect, If your camera allows, dial in some minus flash compensation,

Make your background as uncluttered as possible, and put the child as far in front of the background as you can. (Separation will give you more control over depth of field.) I would try a practice run or two before I planned the real event.

Good luck!