Active Kids Photography is about capturing a moment but as adults we need to help make these moments happen. If it is an indoor shoot and there is set up time it is preferable to use a parent for lighting tests so that your child can just play in the vicinity and get accustomed to the photographer without being asked to do anything. Very young children will always look at Mum or Dad rather than someone they have just met. Mostly it is better not to ask them to smile but if a parent smiles at the child or makes a funny face the child will respond naturally.
As candid photography specialists we believe that the best pictures happen when the child is engaged with what they are doing and not neccesarily looking at the camera. When booking a photo session consider the child's natural cycle and choose a time when they are alert and not hungry or tired. It is preferable to not have a lot of additional people present so the child will not be distracted. Where possible we like to use natural light so consider that when choosing a location for your pictures. Sometimes the living room is good if you have strong light coming through the windows and your garden is a possibility although for outdoor shots it is often better to go to a park so that fences and gardens are not so distracting.
When preparing your child for a photoshoot look for clothing that doesn't take attention from their child's face. Solid colours are usually best and have a couple of outfits prepared. Consider the colour of the siblings outfit if more than one child is to be photographed together. Most of all the photoshoot should be fun. Let your child be their natural playful self and that is what the pictures will capture.