Even though my mind is completely full of holiday related thoughts and plans I have had the chance to run across non-holiday related web sites. Today I found this great site: http://www.momshots.com/
From her About page:
"I have spent a lot of time looking up information online and realized that I couldn’t find any one place that met all of my needs. Momshots was born out of inspiration one morning at the gym. I started thinking about how there should be a one stop place that discussed all the in’s and out’s of learning how to better photograph of my kids. I want to learn this art of photography and I want to share what I learn with anyone else who might be looking for similar knowledge. "
How perfect is that? You all know how much I love when people share their knowledge of their craft (Especially when that craft happens to be photography)
She also has this awesome list of Quick Tips on her side bar.... All of which I live by when photographing children (#5 and #6 especially! If you're trying too hard you're not going to be all that happy with results)....This hint here, for example "3.) Be aware of the background." Makes me smile...the first photography tip I ever received...from my mother! It's so true. The cutest picture can be mucked up by trash or messy beds or some very strange off-color graffiti.