Equipment

Equipment - Whilst it is not necessary to have the latest in Digital or Film SLR camera (Single Lens Reflex), if you are serious about photography, my tip would be to invest in this type of camera. The ability to change lenses will greatly improve your standard of shots, and WHAT you can shoot.

If the house or room is fairly small, a wide-angle lens is a must. If you venture into the garden and the children are running wild, a mid-range telephoto/zoom lens would help capture those crazy moments. If lighting is low, a wide aperture may be required.

To be honest, I wouldn't suggest turning up to a paid job with a small compact digital anyhow!

Another reason for SLR's as opposed to compact digital cameras, is that point and shoot digital cameras have what is known as "Shutter lag". This means that the photo can be taken as long as 2 seconds AFTER you have pressed the shutter, thereby increasing the chances of missing that "Got to have" photograph.

A good SLR will have little or no shutter lag.

So, my tip for the ideal equipment setup for child photography would be;

• Digital or Film SLR - Prices can vary from a couple of hundred pounds to literally thousands. See our gear guide to find the kit suitable for you and your needs.
• Variety of Lenses such as 16-35mm zoom, a standard 50mm, 85mm or 100mm, and/or a 70-200mm zoom (or near equivalent). One or more of the lenses should be FAST, I.e. have a wide aperture of 2.8 or better. This is explained more in the LIGHTING section.
• Studio lights - 2 is best, but you can get away with one light and a soft box or luminescent brolly. See LIGHTING for more info.
• Flashgun - Necessary for fill in or bounce flash where the studio lights won't go. See LIGHTING for more info.
• Spare batteries and Storage media/film - ALWAYS have back-up. There is nothing that will kill your credibility more than having to pack up and come back another day! Trust me!

Go To Tip 8. Lighting

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