Reflections, Repetition and Rest

Reflections are a great tool in a photographer's bag. I use them in wedding photography to capture the bride getting ready while the groom patiently waits in the mirror. The reflection off a window offers a subtle perspective of what children peering out are curiously observing. And here, two well placed reflections against the piano (though difficult to see on a blog size photo) provide additional profiles of Aidan studying his music. Personally speaking, I also find my own reflection humbling and a good reminder of why I'm a photographer and not a model.

Reflections are key not just for the photo being taken, but also with light sources. My soft box is pretty much right on top of the camera, pointing down to bounce light off the white keys and back up to hide Zoe's double chin :) In all seriousness though, it takes the edge off of the shadows because well, what hard working parent doesn't have a few bags under their eyes.

Like learning the piano, photographing your kids takes practice for you and them. My recommendation is to crack out the camera once a week for a few minutes. Kids grow up so fast so there's always something new to capture. At the same time, give it a rest. Photographing children much more frequently will eventually lead them to hide your equipment (which of course is why I always carry a spare).

Baby Photography Tips: The key light has a 1/4 CTO to warm things up. A 4-star Lee Filter provides the starburst effect on my other speedlite for a bit of the concert look. My wife provides the very important source of giggles for Zoe which really makes the photo.

Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/PhatPhotographer/~3/HB3SM01xYmM/reflections-repetition-and-rest.html

Caley Leigh Emily Annie Maude Chastity