I want to get portraits done this Saturday for my son's 2nd birthday, but he cannot hold his head up, sit up, or smile. I'll be lucky enough just to keep him awake for the photos.
I just wondered if any of you could put your thinking caps on and give me good ideas of props/backgrounds/poses I can use. I will need to sit him up on something probably. He cannot lift his head up when he is on his tummy, so probably can't do that pose unless we happen to get really lucky.
I really want something cute and memorable. I just have no clue what to do.
2007-07-25 08:28:46 · 7 answers · asked by lookoutthewindow 2 in Arts & Humanities ➔ Visual Arts ➔ Photography
I think a bean bag chair might work, and by putting some type of fabric drape over it and sitting your son on top of that, the beanbag chair wouldn't even be visible.
I suggest calling the studio and explaining your situation to them. They may already have experience with situations like your son's and might already have some great ideas. Also, if they don't, it's a good idea to give them ample time to prepare. It's probably not a good idea to show up on Saturday without giving them a heads up beforehand so they have time to prepare. I think you'll get much better results if they know ahead of time that the shoot may be a bit different then they are used to. This way, you'll get better pics of your son.
I cherish portraits I had done of my kids when they were young and I know you will too. Hope he has an awesome birthday too!!!
2007-07-25 08:43:58 · answer #1 · answered by icy_tempest 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Portraits ALWAYS look at there best when the subject is comfortable. Always. I would suggest that instead of posing your son, you use the camera angle to create interesting photos.
If you can have a talk with your photographer, that's ideal. Come in a few days before, if possible, for even 20 minutes. (This gives the photographer enough time to come up with some ideas and figure out what sort of lighting, etc. is needed.) Let him meet your son, and talk about your options. A good photographer will be willing to work with you on this. If you're getting these portraits done though a studio, at least call and let them know your son's physical limitations, etc.
As for specific poses, lying on the stomach and shooting from above sometimes works, as well as sitting with a huge stuffed animal. For props, I would suggest you bring some of your son's favorite toys--the emotions will be more genuine and your son will probably be more comfortable.
Best of luck!
2007-07-25 10:50:05 · answer #2 · answered by Flutterby 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Using soft pillows, blankets, etc... create a platform that is angled about 45 degrees from the floor, soft enough to let him partially sink into pillows. That will help him to "sit up" for a bit.
Does he respond well to touch or tickling? Use what you can to get him to respond just prior to the shoot.
For a laying down shot, maybe something on his side, head on a pillow, bottom arm bent with his hand under his chin. Maybe build a little shelf (with pillows and blankets) to raise his torso and head, and his hands clasped in front of him. Position his feet and legs in a nice comfortable pose.
I guess the big thing is keep him comfortable, and not feeling uncomfortable on the pillows, etc...
2007-07-25 08:43:03 · answer #3 · answered by photoguy_ryan 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
For babies and children who can't hold their heads up I think photographers can angle the camera and recline a child so that it looks like they're sitting up. When the photo is developed you won't be able to tell that the child was reclined or laying down. Good luck and happy birthday to your son!!!
2007-07-25 08:33:26 · answer #4 · answered by ndn_ronhoward 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I would hold the child on your lap with your hands and lap covered with a drape that you like.
You can tilt the child's head and he won't feel insecure about being posed and moved around -might make for a more relaxed expression too
2007-07-25 09:00:48 · answer #5 · answered by Bemo 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
maybe just lay him on his back and put a back ground on the floor under him with all kinds of colors or ballons and then have the photographer get on a ladder and take it up there looking down at him. maybe put some of his toys by him or ball. or if dad is a sport guy a ball of the daddys favorite sport. Maybe black and white pictures too. since your baby cant smile black and white ones are more dramatic photos anyways.
2007-07-25 08:40:49 · answer #6 · answered by j 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Photography studios have baby positioners, but a two year old is probably too big for that. Would a bean bag work? Or perhaps you can do a family portrait with you holding him. I hope it goes well.
2007-07-25 08:37:15 · answer #7 · answered by Ara57 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋