Tips on Directing for Genuine Smiles

IMG_1158_edited-1

My goal with seniors it to get them comfortable in front of the camera. Usually at the expense of me, I talk about crazy goofy stuff, ask them about themselves, feel them out. Above I asked Miss Alyson if I started “twerking” if that would make her feel uncomfortable? Well, of course it would, but I also got this PERFECT smile out of her 🙂

IMG_8989_edited-1

For me, it’s a lot easier getting genuine smiles if there is more than 1 person, especially 2 kids (siblings). These girls didn’t require a whole lot of direction but what I asked them to do was KINDLY tickle each other, and then I had the little girl in the yellow whisper BOOGER in her sister’s ear. Got it!!

IMG_8933_edited-1

Have them DO something, throw something, blow something, squish something, smell something, anything. You will get a genuine reaction every time.

IMG_8245_edited-1

Weather permitting, PUT THEM IN THE WATER!! This little girl, bless her heart, is not much of a smiler. I’ve been photographing her since she was in mommies belly and have never got more genuine smiles than I did when we went to the water. She LOVED it. We splashed, we played, and I just let her be little 🙂

IMG_4083_edited-1

Boys. They tend to be a bit wilder and crazy than the girls. I encourage play. I talk lots of bugs, stinky things, and RUNNING. You need to make sure your shutter speed is HIGH to capture these very fast moments of pure joy.

IMG_0796_edited-1

Little girls LOVE to twirl. I directed her to twirl her dress like a princess.

IMG_4727_edited-1

Couples can be a little tricky at times but my go to is to get them super close, almost where they feel a bit uncomfortable, and tell them to whisper sweet nothings to each other, but to keep it PG-13. Works every time.

PhotographerBioTemplate

Find Photos by Breein on the Web: Website | Facbook

BP4U_Freebie_Ad