Photo Tips

Zoom: If your camera has a zoom lens, be sure to use it! If you don't have a zoom then get as close to your subject as possible. This eliminates a lot of clutter around your subject.

Lighting Inside: When taking pictures indoors, always use your flash; this will eliminate unwanted shadows that don't show up until your pictures are developed. Keep an eye out for mirrors and windows to avoid unwanted reflections.

Lighting Outside: When taking shots in the sunlight, try to get the sun behind you and slightly off to the side to avoid lens flare, and having your subjects squinting into the sunlight.

Little Ones: Taking pictures of a couple of kids looking in the direction (let alone smiling) can lead to some frustrating moments! When your yelling at kids to "SMILE AT MOMMY!" it can take some fun out of the event. Get your kids to look at you and scream and yell. It's annoying for sure but it will look like they are laughing in the photos!

and Finally:

• Send pictures of your child only. It is easier to judge if there are no other people in the picture. Props are okay but the more there are, the less your child will stand out.
• Avoid red-eye in the picture you send.
• Please stay away from sending photos that are blurry or hard to recognize. Close up, clear pictures are the best.
• Folded, torn or manipulated photos are not easy to scan. It is very important that you send a straight and wrinkle free picture.
• Pictures with shadows on your child's face or that are dark, are difficult to judge. Natural, candid shots are very interesting and encouraged.
• There shouldn't be any obstructions in the way of your child. Up-front pictures are the best.