I may not have children of my own, but I have the pleasure of being an aunt several times over.
My godson Samuel during soccer practice.
Picture taken with my Sony a9 + 135mm f/1.8 @ f/1.8, 1/2000sec, ISO 100
Candid and Playful Photography
Candid and playful photography is all about capturing spontaneous and carefree moments that show the genuine joy and excitement of children. Instead of posing, you let them be themselves, and you capture the magic of their personalities.
Imagine a child playing soccer in the park. Instead of asking them to stand still and smile, you let them run, kick the ball, and laugh freely. As they immerse themselves in the game, you observe from a distance and click the camera at just the right moment when their happiness shines brightest.
The key to candid photography is being patient and ready to snap the shot at any moment. Children are full of surprises, and their expressions change rapidly, so you have to stay alert. It’s like capturing a butterfly in flight – you need to be quick and precise.
When reviewing the photos later, you’ll discover little gems of authentic emotion and excitement. Maybe it’s the child’s eyes lighting up as they score a goal or the sheer delight on their face when they play with their friends. These candid shots evoke genuine feelings and tell a story that words cannot express.
My nephew Louis and my niece Maude sharing a sweet moment.
Picture taken with my Sony a9 + 55mm f/1.8 @ f/1.8, 1/500sec, ISO 320
Celebrating Everyday Happiness
In the world of photography, capturing the essence of youth often means finding joy and wonder in the simplest of moments. Childhood is filled with everyday happiness, those little moments that light up a child’s face and warm our hearts. These moments may seem ordinary, but they are the ones that hold the most beauty.
Imagine two cousins playing together in the living room. The older cousin, aged seven, holds a little heart-shaped sticker in her hand, while her little cousin, aged two, reaches for it with excitement.
As the camera captures this scene, you can see the genuine smiles on their faces. In this simple act of play, the bond between the cousins shines brightly.
These everyday moments are precious because they are fleeting. Children grow up so fast, and these cherished times become memories that parents and families hold dear for a lifetime. As a photographer, capturing these authentic and candid moments can bring a sense of happiness not only to the children in the photograph but also to those who view the image later on.
Samuel watching his grandfather Martin (my dad) read him a fascinating story.
Picture taken with my Sony a9 + 55mm f/1.8 @ f/1.8, 1/400sec, ISO 2000
Exploring the World Through Their Eyes
Children have a magical way of seeing the world around them, filled with wonder and curiosity. We can capture this unique perspective by exploring the world through their eyes. By getting down to their level and paying attention to the little things that fascinate them, we can create photographs that reflect the innocence and joy of childhood.
Imagine a little boy sitting next to his grandfather as he reads him a story. From our adult perspective, it might seem like a simple, everyday scene. But to the child, it’s a world of enchantment. As the photographer, you decide to capture this moment from his point of view.
You crouch down to the little boy’s eye level, adjusting your camera settings to ensure you capture the details that matter most. You focus on his sparkling eyes, eager with anticipation. You notice the way his grandfather’s comforting presence makes him feel safe and loved. In this single photograph, you’ve managed to convey the joy, wonder, and love that a young boy experiences in this precious moment with his grandfather.
In conclusion
Capturing the essence of youth through photography is a heartwarming journey into a world of joy and wonder. By connecting with young subjects, embracing candid moments, and seeing the world through their eyes, we can create images that preserve the magic of childhood for generations to come!
About the Author – Michèle Grenier
Michèle is a full-time sports photographer and photo coach based in Quebec City. She shares her experience through articles, training seminars and videos.
You can find Michèle on her YouTube Channel and her website.
