Below are 7 tips to photographing pets and children. Enjoy!
1) get out of your comfort zone and into theirs. Kids and pets are not tall like adults, so go down to their level. Try getting low or even on the ground. You will see all kinds of new angles and possibilities.
2) Dont bark commands and force them into cooperation. Parents are famous for this. Yes, we want respectful children, but we dont want tantrums, tears, and conniption fits. so sometimes parents just have to relax.
3) Let kids & pets be themselves. If they want to explore let them, you might just get something really special that you would otherwise not have even considered.
4) Remember the best portraits are the ones that tell a story and evoke an emotion, not just looking at the camera. In this way you capture the personalty and emotion of the subject and this is timeless.
5) Saying cheese triggers the mind to make a cheesy smile. Instead capture a portrait with a real expression.

Smile for the camera
7) Use props like a noise making chicken, sea shells, bubbles, toys, & sand castles for kids, frisbees, dog toys, treats, ocean, and squeaky noise makers for dogs.
6) Have Fun – Remember Getting wet or dirty makes for great story telling.
7) Have dog treats, kids snacks, drinks, towels, and extra clothes standing by.
Helpful links.
If coming to Maui and are interested in a family portrait please contact Maui Photography. If interested in learning about photography, check out Maui Photo Tours. Workshops on landscape, basic, I-phone, portraiture, and underwater photography are offered. If interested in fine art photography or joining wildlife photography expeditions check out Douglas J Hoffman