This project became an unexpected reminder of the freedom and authenticity we lose as adults. Photographing children is never about control it’s about presence, patience, and connection. These portraits were captured during a freelance session, but they turned into something more:a lesson in trust, spontaneity, and joy.

Children don’t perform for the camera.They simply are.

My job wasn’t to direct them it was to follow their energy and honor their world as it unfolded.

THE STORY

Working with children is its own kind of storytelling.

You learn quickly that you’re not the guide — they are.Their curiosity chooses the moment.Their laughter breaks the pose.Their imagination sets the rhythm.

And if you’re willing to listen, really listen, they reveal the kind of authenticity adults often forget:

• the shy glance that turns into a smile

• the fearless way they claim space

• the honesty in their expressions

• the way color, texture, and light become a playground

• the trust that grows when they realize you see them

This project reminded me that photography isn’t just technical — it’s relational.Kids don’t give you perfect poses.They give you truth, and truth is far more beautiful.These little ones taught me so much in such a simple interaction that helped me realize that their is a need to trust those who are paving a new path. To never stop learning from every interaction we have in our every day life.

THE CRAFT

Photographed on the Sony A1 using flash paired with a softbox, this project required balancing bright, whimsical color with clean, soft lighting. Working with children demands technical adaptability — moments disappear in seconds.

Core focuses included:

• shaping flattering, gentle light with the softbox

• managing shadows to keep the portraits airy and bright

• capturing expression in motion (kids do NOT stay still!)

• composing around their natural movement rather than forcing it

• maintaining attention through play, not instruction

The goal was to blend editorial clarity with the spontaneity of childhood crisp images with a beating heart behind them.

IMPORTANCE OF EVERY PROJECT

These portraits reminded me of the purity of storytelling.

Kids don’t hide.They don’t protect their emotions.They don’t shrink themselves for the world.

They exist fully — and that is its own kind of magic.

Photographing them reaffirmed the importance of trust in my work.When people feel safe, seen, and free, their light comes through naturally.Even at this young age, they showed me the essence of what I strive for in every project honesty, connection, and the courage to simply be.

WRITTEN BY: Scarlett Islas

PHOTOGRAPHY BY: Scarlett Islas