Another quick one as I have two major photo sessions coming up. Babies!
I find that most babies tend to give an angry Winston Churchill look, which is fine if you are trying to win World War II, but for family photos you will need to use some tricks. However, you need to keep in mind that all places are new to babies, that’s just the nature of babies and time. There are some things you can do to improve your odds though.
For starters, have patience. You don’t just show up to a party and start talking to people, you get a feel for the area first and then start a conversation. While babies don’t really talk, they do still need time to warm up. Be patient but be ready. You may only have a few seconds to get the shot you won’t when the facial expression is there.
Also trust the baby’s family. Odds are the parents know how to get a laugh or a smile depending on how old the baby is. A few months, they absolutely will know how to get a smile or a laugh. A few weeks, maybe not so much. It never hurts to ask though.
If all else fails, try every funny sound you can make. I find this works a lot like hot and cold. Based off the look you get you are either getting hot and closer to a smile or cold and further from a smile. You will see what I mean if you try it yourself.