4. Over Here!

Try and attract the attention of kids in a natural way - talking doesn't always work!

Try lighting a match (never fails), or use a cellphone ringtone to make them look in your direction.

Failing that, draft in Mum and Dad to help, or their favourite toys.

Limit distractions - don't have too many assistants! Shoot kids on your own if you can, or with a maximum of one parent. Too many people in the room will be a hindrance rather than a help.

Remember, you don't always need to get children to look directly into the camera to get a great portrait shot.

5. Get Down and Dirty

Always try shooting at the kid's eye-level, not yours - get down on your stomach if you have to - it will create much more natural-looking pictures.

Let the camera do the focusing, not you. Most modern cameras can keep up with fast-moving children.

Fill in the shadows using an inexpensive piece of 4x4-inch foam-core on the floor, rather than using a second light. Position the subject on the white flooring to create a more evenly lit picture.

Finally, go wild and let the children run free - chaos can be good and often results in the best pictures!

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