Setting the Space

Dimensions

There must be an area of 6 feet by 10 feet with a ceiling height of 6 feet in order to have enough space to light and frame the children. These measurements are the bare minimum required to produce a proper photograph. 

The more space we have available the more control we have over our photographic setup and lighting providing the best quality of work. More space also allows us a greater safety buffer between the children and the equipment and affords the photographer and staff better occasion to prevent excited and impatient spectators from running into the set while it is another's turn to be photographed.

We'll also need...

Electrical outlet -  We will need one nearby to power the lights. We try to set up as close to the outlet as possible so as not to run any unnecessarily long extension cords where they can be tripped over or unplugged.

Table - Our photographic process involves seating the children on a secure and suitably sized table. This helps keep the photographer from having to work in an awkwardly bent over position and helps control the posture of the children while they are being photographed. The table should be sturdy enough to support an adult with ease. Rectangular and trapezoidal shapes are generally best as the leg positions of most circular tables leave them in danger of tipping if a child sits too close to the edge.

Chair - The photographer will always place a chair to one side of the table during setup. This chair is there so nervous children can have a parent or staff member close by for support if they find themselves frightened or unsure of the situation. 

Tissues & Wet Wipes - It is a good idea to have tissues and wet wipes close at hand as runny noses and dirty faces are constant.

Extra Considerations

We try to set up the photo area in such a way as the children do not face the door to the room directly and, if possible, any windows either. Since children are so easily distracted it can be very difficult to keep their attention on camera if there is a lot of movement going on within their field of vision.