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Writer's pictureVictoria Strong
Aug 187 min read

12 Tips for Photographing Your Kids in Handmade Clothes

Updated: Oct 2

Turning your child’s wardrobe into a showcase of your sewing skills is exciting, but capturing the perfect photo of them in their new outfit can be a bit of a challenge. Whether you're a handmade clothing shop looking to highlight your latest creations, a strike sewist eager to knock the pants off of the online sewing community, or just someone wanting to snap a cute picture for friends and family, we’ve got you covered. Dive into these fun and easy tips to make your photoshoots a breeze and ensure your child’s style shines in every shot!


1. Use Simple, Child-Friendly Prompts

Children are naturally playful, and stiff poses might not bring out their best expressions. Instead of asking them to “stand still” or “smile,” try prompts that encourage movement and interaction. Some examples include:


  • "Can you twirl in your new dress?"

  • "Show me how you jump as high as you can!"

  • "Pretend you're a superhero in your new costume."

  • "Can you spin around like a ballerina?"

  • "Can you land like Spiderman?"

  • "Show me how you think a princess waves"


These prompts not only make the photo shoot more fun for your child but also capture the clothes in action, highlighting the design and flow of your handiwork.


Photo 2 Pattern used: Camellia (Wildseeds Patterns)


2. Incorporate Props

Props can add a playful element to your photos and help your child feel more comfortable. Think about what might complement the outfit or theme:


  • For a dress, a small bouquet of flowers or a soft toy can add a touch of charm.

  • If you've sewn a cozy sweater, consider taking the photo with your child holding a mug of (cooled down) hot cocoa.

  • For a playful costume, props like wands, hats, or masks can enhance the theme and keep your child engaged.

  • Try bubbles. They add to the photographs aesthetically, and the joy of the child! You can use a bubble machine for younger children, or give the older ones a bubble wand.


Make sure the props don’t overshadow the outfit but instead complement it, drawing attention to the details of your sewing.


Photo 1 Pattern used: Sweater Romper (Lowland Kids)


3. Get Low for Better Angles

When photographing children, it’s essential to get down to their level. This perspective is more flattering and creates a more intimate and engaging photo. Try kneeling, sitting, or even lying on the ground to capture your child at eye level. This not only makes the child the focal point but also emphasizes the detail in the clothing you’ve created.



4. Encourage Genuine Smiles

Capturing a child’s genuine smile can be challenging, especially if they feel pressured. Instead of asking them to smile, try making them laugh. Tell a silly joke, make funny faces, or play a quick game of peekaboo. If you have an older child, you can engage them in a conversation about something they love, which often leads to a natural and genuine smile.


Remember, sometimes the best smiles come when they’re not forced. If your child isn’t in the mood to smile, embrace their natural expressions. A serious or contemplative look can be just as captivating.



5. Have Poses in Mind

While it’s great to let your child play and move naturally, having a few poses in mind can ensure you capture the look you're going for. Consider these pose ideas:


  • Standing tall: Show off the full outfit with your child standing straight, perhaps holding a prop or just using their hands to smooth out their clothes.

  • Sitting down: Capture the outfit from a different angle by having your child sit on a bench, rock, or grassy area.

  • Action shots: If the outfit allows for movement, like a flowy dress or a costume, have your child run, jump, or spin to capture the fabric in motion.

  • Candid moments: Sometimes the best photos are taken when your child isn’t posing at all. Capture them while they’re looking off into the distance, playing with a prop, or interacting with a sibling.



6. Play Music to Set the Mood

Music can be a great way to set the tone for your photoshoot. Play your child’s favorite songs in the background to help them relax and have fun. Upbeat music can encourage dancing, spinning, and joyful expressions, which are perfect for capturing natural, lively photos. If you’ve created a flowy dress or a playful outfit, ask your child to dance to the music, and you’ll likely capture some beautiful, dynamic shots.


7. Lighting is Key

Good lighting is essential for any photo. Natural light is your best friend, so if possible, take your photos outside or near a large window. Early morning or late afternoon light is soft and flattering, often referred to as the "golden hour." Avoid harsh midday sunlight, as it can create unflattering shadows and make your child squint.


Being outdoors also tends to improve children’s moods, leading to more relaxed and happy expressions. Plus, natural surroundings can add a lovely backdrop that complements the clothing.


If you're shooting indoors, try to avoid overhead lighting that can cast unflattering shadows. Instead, position your child near a window or use a softbox if you have one.



8. Set Your Camera to Action Mode

Children are constantly on the move, and capturing those quick, spontaneous moments can be tricky. If your camera has an action or sports mode, switch to that setting. This mode is designed to capture fast movements with minimal blur, ensuring you don’t miss any of those fleeting smiles or twirls. It’s perfect for getting clear shots of your child in action, whether they’re jumping, running, or just moving around energetically. And don't forget to use continuous shooting so you don't miss a moment!



9. Create Distance and Use a Clutter-Free Background

To make your child stand out in the photos, ensure there is enough distance between them and the background. This separation helps keep the focus on your child and the clothing. A clutter-free background also helps in this regard; it prevents distractions and ensures that the outfit remains the main focus of the photo. Choose a simple, clean backdrop, whether it's a plain wall, an open field, or a beautifully decorated room that doesn’t overwhelm the subject.



10. Reward Your Child

Positive reinforcement goes a long way in keeping your child engaged and cooperative during the photoshoot. Consider rewarding them with something small after the session, like a treat, extra playtime, or their favorite activity. Let them know how much you appreciate their help and how great they look in the clothes you’ve made. This not only makes the experience enjoyable for them but also helps them associate photoshoots with positive outcomes, making future sessions easier.


11. Optional Photo Magic

For those who want to add a little extra sparkle to their photos, consider using photo editing software to enhance your shots. Basic adjustments like increasing brightness, adding a touch of contrast, or smoothing out any imperfections can make a big difference. You can also experiment with filters or add a soft vignette to make your subject pop. Just be careful not to overdo it—sometimes subtle edits are all you need to bring out the best in your photos.


Photo 4 Pattern: Isla with Jayden hood (Simple Life Pattern Company) with added trim and an asymmetrical skirt


12. Patience and Flexibility

Finally, the most important tip is to be patient and flexible. Children can be unpredictable, and not every photoshoot will go as planned. If your child is not in the mood, take a break and try again later. The key is to keep the experience fun and stress-free for both you and your child. And don't be afraid to let them be silly! The biggest, most genuine smiles can come from laughing at themselves.


Patterns: Cheyenne Top and Unwind Shorts (Simple Life Pattern Company) with lettuce hems


Remember, the goal is to capture the joy and personality of your child in the clothes you’ve created. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to taking beautiful, memorable photos that you’ll cherish for years to come.


Check out our FAVE must-have photography essentials HERE to really help elevate your pictures even more!


If you are looking for more photography tips don't forget to check out these blogs:


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2 Comments

Crystal Jones
Crystal Jones
Aug 19

Loved this post! Thank you for sharing all your tips! Can’t wait to try them out! 🥰

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sjpcreationsco
Aug 19

Thank you for all of the Tips and tricks I will definitely try them 😊

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