HOW TO photograph kids on film : 5 tips
Hey there, fellow film enthusiasts and parents! If you’ve recently dived into the world of film photography and are wondering how to capture those fleeting childhood moments with a classic touch, you’re in the right place. As a family photographer with a love for the timeless beauty of film, I’m excited to share some tips that’ll help you get the most out of your analog camera when photographing your little ones. Let’s embrace that grainy goodness and nostalgic charm of film.
Here are my 5 tips for photographing kids on film.
1. Embrace the magic of imperfections
One of the most enchanting aspects of shooting on film is its inherent unpredictability, especially when you’re using a point-and-shoot or disposable-style camera. Sometimes digital cameras can feel almost too perfectly sharp. Film adds a layer of unpredictability that brings a special, nostalgic warmth.
Kids, by their very nature, are unpredictable. Their movements are spontaneous and full of life. Whether it’s a blurry giggle or a frame with just a hint of motion, these imperfections can often be the most treasured memories. Those moments that are a true representation of how it felt in the moment.
Don’t stress about capturing picture-perfect shots. Embrace the grain, the slight color shifts, the light leaks, accidental double exposures and the occasional blur — these quirks are part of the charm of film!
2. Find the right light
Film photography thrives on good lighting, and this is especially true when photographing kids. Natural light is your best friend. Film can handle harsh light really well — bright highlights hold their detail so beautifully on film. So don’t be afraid of harsh shadows or sunny days.
You can also shoot in soft, diffused light, which can be found during the golden hours—early morning or late afternoon. If you’re shooting indoors, position your child near a large window so they have lots of sunlight on them.
As beautifully as film retains highlights, shadows can turn “muddy” easily. Try to overexpose just a touch to make sure your shadows stay rich (if that’s the look you’re going for!).
The beauty of film is its ability to handle light beautifully, so use it to your advantage.
3. Get on their level
When photographing kids, it’s so fun to get on their level. When I’m taking pictures of my kids, I’m usually kneeling or crouching down. I talk to them, tell jokes, ask questions about what they’re holding, etc. This approach not only makes for more engaging and intimate photos but also helps you connect with them.
You can also turn the camera to photograph the world as they see it — think of it as an adventure! Kids are naturally curious and playful, so use their level to your advantage. Capture them as they see the world—whether it’s peeking through a toy, playing with a pet, or simply exploring their surroundings. This perspective will result in images that feel genuine and full of life.
4. Focus on genuine moments
One of the greatest joys of photographing children is capturing their candid, authentic moments. Film is fantastic for this because it has a way of preserving the emotional and spontaneous nature of these experiences. Instead of staging or overly posing your kids, let them be themselves. Follow their lead and observe their interactions, play, and expressions.
Sometimes, the most memorable photos are the ones that catch kids in their natural element—whether they’re mid-laugh, lost in thought, or engaged in a favorite activity. Keep your camera ready and be patient. Film may have a slower pace than digital, but that’s part of the magic. Allow yourself to wait for those special moments when everything aligns perfectly.
I love quietly documenting the way my kids are standing/interacting with the world around them. Kids have the most interesting and creative way of existing in the world — they’re constantly upside-down, leaning, lying down, fully engaged with the elements around them. This usually makes for some really fun compositions.
5. Give them an activity to do
Kids can be notoriously difficult to photograph because they’re always on the move and rarely interested in posing for the camera. One effective way to capture their genuine personalities and keep them engaged is by giving them an activity to do while you photograph them.
Choose something they love and that will keep them naturally occupied — blowing bubbles, playing with a favorite toy, drawing or building with blocks. These activities distract them from the camera and allow you to capture authentic moments of intrigue, curiosity and concentration.
My kids love painting and drawing — we set up their easel on our deck and I let them go to down on their artwork. I don’t think they even noticed I was taking photos!
A few final tips on shooting kids on film:
Here are a couple more pointers to ensure your film experience is as smooth as possible:
Practice patience: Film photography requires a bit more patience than digital. You won’t see your results immediately, but this can be a rewarding part of the process. The anticipation of waiting for your film to be developed adds to the excitement of seeing your images. Film scans in your inbox is like Christmas morning!
Keep your camera ready: Kids are always on the move, so having your camera handy and ready to shoot is crucial. Consider carrying a small, easy-to-use film camera for spontaneous moments. I keep my Fujifilm Klasse W in my bag at all times.
Preserve the memories: Once you’ve got your film developed, consider creating a photo album to showcase these moments. There’s something incredibly special about flipping through physical prints and reliving those memories. I have a few baskets full or prints sprinkled all around the house. The kids love grabbing the baskets and looking through — they especially love seeing themselves as babies haha!
So there you have it—my top five tips for photographing your kids on film. Embrace the charm and spontaneity that film brings, and remember to enjoy the process. Happy shooting!
If you need some help getting started, I have a FREE GUIDED PROJECT called The Film Roll Project where I walk you through shooting a roll of film.
The Film Roll Project –
2 weeks. 14 prompts. 1 roll of film.
This project is for you if you are in a creative rut and need fresh inspiration while experimenting with composition, light + storytelling.
Or if you are simply wanting to experience the beauty of film.
The magic of waiting to see your images. A form of delayed gratification that we don't get in our usual day-to-day life.
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