Now that you know how to capture great shots of your Jack-O-Lanterns let’s discuss ways you can snap winning shot of your littlest pumpkins. Mine is dressing up as a monkey this year complete with a stuffed banana and curly tail. Given that grandma and grandpa live 5,000 miles away, it’s vital that I document the upcoming costumed festivities properly.
The following tips are ones that have helped me capture memorable Halloween memories over the years:
Shoot Early. My mom would not allow us out of the house on Halloween night without getting a group shot first. The No. 1 reason is obvious—-no child is going to look as good in her costume than when she initially puts it on. That goes double for costumes that require make up. Second, there is no way a child is going to want to participate in a photo session after she has just inhaled 3 pounds worth of chocolate. And, finally, at the end of a 2-hour trick-or-treat run most kids want to take off their masks—-not put them on for another round of pictures (that is if they even make it back home with their masks). So, shoot early when the make up is fresh and the sugar hasn’t kicked in yet.
Spice Up the Backgrounds. Another reason why you should shoot your little monsters early is so that you can make use of outdoor lighting. The glow of an autumn sunset is exponentially better than trying to capture a group shot when it’s totally dark outside. (Then you have to deal with flash issues.) Also, aim to take individual photos with fun backgrounds. For example, a spooky monster looks even scarier with a bare tree silhouetted in the background, and your pretty princess will shine brighter on a grand staircase or seated on a plush throne.
Play the Part. To add spice to your Halloween shots get your little ghosts and goblins to act the part. Photo sessions will seem more inviting if you ask your kids to get into character. For example, your little NFL wannabe can be captured throwing the game winning pass or get your little Big Leaguer to don his mitt and make like he’s catching the game winning out. You’ll notice a marked difference between boring static shots and ones that costumed kids are adding action to the picture. Have your little ballerina pirouette for the camera or ask your pint-sized queen to bow regally for a frameworthy shot.
Experiment. When you shoot early you are afforded the opportunity to experiment with lighting (your mini Frankenstein will look much scarier with a green fluorescent tint in the back). Also, get creative with angles and composition. Shooting from a low angle will not only show off your child’s costume it will also add pizzazz to a static shot.
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