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Top Tips For capturing Kids Underwater
Fifteen years ago, our journey into the underwater world began with photographing children. With no reputation or recognisable name, we took a leap of faith and reached out to every swim school in our region, attaching our portfolio to the emails. One swim school responded, and that one reply ignited a spark within us. We immediately printed our products and set up our humble photography station at every swimming lesson. Soon enough, the curiosity turned into genuine interest, and our client base began to grow. One client led to two, two became three, swim schools multiplied, and so did our opportunities. Along the way, we’ve learned invaluable lessons about photographing kids, and we can’t wait to share our insights with you.
This blog will plunge into the enchanting world of underwater kids’ portraits, exploring the necessary preparations and sharing valuable tips.
You have to actually like and enjoy spending time with kids if you ever want to work with them successfully.
PHOTOGRAPHING CHILDREN IS AN ADVENTURE UNLIKE ANY OTHER.
Water holds a special place filled with joy, excitement, and limitless exploration in the heart of most children. Whether they're splashing in the pool, frolicking at the beach, or simply enjoying the sensation of being immersed, water has a way of igniting their spirits. Now, imagine harnessing this profound connection with water to create portraits underwater. With its unique properties and ability to defy gravity, water opens the door to a realm of endless possibilities, allowing us to capture the pure essence of childhood in extraordinary ways.
Photographing children is an adventure unlike any other. Let's face it, it's not an easy task. Children have their own agenda, following their whims and fancies without hesitation, leading us to step into their world and dance to their rhythm. It's a delightful challenge that calls for flexibility and adaptability, but oh, the joy it brings!
Preparing Parents for a Kid Underwater Portrait Photo-Shoot
If you’re a parent or you’ve been working with kids, you’re no stranger to the wild and wonderful world of kids’ mood swings! It’s like riding a roller coaster filled with unexpected twists and turns. One moment they’re as bright as the sun, and the next, clouds start to roll in.
To significantly increase the odds of creating a fun, smooth and truly memorable underwater photo-shoot experience for everyone involved, having our little models thrilled about their upcoming photo-shoot is crucial. But here’s the secret: it all begins before the photo shoot. That’s why we encourage parents to create a positive and welcoming atmosphere right from the beginning.
To significantly increase the odds of creating a fun, smooth and truly memorable underwater photo-shoot experience for everyone involved, having our little models thrilled for their upcoming photo-shoot is crucial. But here's the secret: it all begins even before the actual photo-shoot. That's why we encourage parents to create a positive and welcoming atmosphere right from the beginning.
How?
- Communicate to children the thrilling and exhilarating experience that awaits them on their underwater adventure. Create a sense of anticipation and excitement that will make them eager to embark on this remarkable journey.
- Make the experience even more engaging by involving the children in decision-making. Let them have a say in selecting their outfits and accessories for the shoot. Giving them the freedom to make choices will make them feel empowered and more invested in the experience.
- Children often take cues from their parents' emotions and attitudes. So, it's crucial for parents to maintain a positive and encouraging outlook. Their enthusiasm will rub off on them and enhance their excitement for the underwater photo-shoot.
Tips for Working with Children Underwater
- Safety comes first: When it comes to underwater kids' photo shoots, safety is our top priority. We take every precaution to ensure a safe and secure environment for the children. That's why, during our sessions, we always have at least one parent in the pool, even if they know how to swim. Having a responsible adult present ensures an extra layer of protection and allows us to focus on capturing those magical moments with peace of mind. If we're photographing more than one child, we encourage parents to bring an extra pair of hands to look after the kids waiting outside the pool. This additional support helps us maintain a safe and controlled setting.
- Customising photo-shoot: Before the photo shoot, we encourage parents to share insights about their child's favourite activities, hobbies, and interests. Whether they love swimming like little mermaids, are fascinated with marine life, or are cricket fans, these details help us craft a personalised and meaningful underwater session. Understanding the unique interests and personalities of the children we photograph is crucial to our work. By learning more about each child, we can tailor their photo shoot experience to reflect their individuality and capture their true essence.
- Patience: Children may feel apprehensive or shy in new or unfamiliar environments. Being patient, understanding, and empathetic towards their emotions is crucial. Take the time to connect with the little ones; making them feel seen, heard, and valued is crucial. We engage with the child, making the experience interactive and enjoyable. Encourage their input and ideas, allowing them to take an active role in the photo-shoot. Giving them some control over the process will make them feel empowered and more invested in the final result.
- Celebration: Our kids' photo-shoots are loud, with lots of high-fives and fist bumps. Every step of the way, we celebrate their efforts, praise their creativity, and acknowledge their unique qualities. This boosts their confidence and motivates them to continue engaging with the process, resulting in more authentic and captivating portraits.
- Instant gratification: We find it important to show the children some portraits at the back of the camera. This instils confidence in them and helps them feel excited about the amazing photos they're creating.
- Toys: Toys are also helpful during underwater sessions. Depending on their ages, we always have little toys ready next to the pool, such as sinkers, rubber ducks, balls, and turtle plush toys. It can be very helpful in certain situations.
- Sibling Sessions: Sibling sessions can be particularly challenging but incredibly rewarding. If not orchestrated well, it can end up in total chaos. When photographing multiple siblings underwater, we establish friendly rules at the beginning of the session to ensure everyone gets their fair share of attention. We plan the shoot carefully, allowing each child to showcase their individuality while capturing the special bond between siblings.
- Underwater photo shoots require patience and a willingness to go with the flow. Be prepared for delays, tantrums, or moments when kids want to play anywhere else but in front of the backdrop. There was a time when the promise of ice cream by the parents worked a treat. Now parents have added apps and games to their arsenal. Whatever it takes to keep the enthusiasm high and the focus on the photo shoot.
- Fast shutter speed: One key recommendation is to use a fast shutter speed to freeze their lively movements and expressions. Kids are known for their boundless energy and unpredictable actions, making it crucial to have a quick shutter speed that can keep up with their fast-paced underwater adventures. When shooting kids underwater, a general guideline is to use a shutter speed of at least 1/250th of a second or faster.
Joyful chaos!
Photographing children is a thrilling, fast-paced adventure filled with unexpected moments and bursts of energy. It’s a dynamic dance where we immerse ourselves in their world, capturing their vibrant personalities and fleeting emotions. From infectious laughter to wide-eyed wonder, we embrace the chaos and adapt to their rhythm, freezing time and immortalising the magic of their childhood in every click of the shutter.
Thank you for diving into this week's blog post with us! May your underwater adventures be filled with joy, laughter, and unforgettable memories. Happy snapping!
We would love to hear from you, so don't be shy and drop us a comment below or underwater our instagram post! Share your thoughts, experiences, or any additional tips you have
Keep smiling!
Steffen & Arielle x
