Capturing the Run: How to Photograph Your Kids in Motion
Jeff still remembers seeing a photo as a kid that stopped him in his tracks—a bright race car, sharp and perfectly still, racing past a blur of colors and spectators. Everything else in the shot looked like it was moving at warp speed, but the car? Crisp and frozen in time. That photo left a mark. There was something captivating about freezing motion while everything else kept moving around it—like bending the rules of time just enough to make you feel something.
Now, as parents and photographers, we love chasing that same kind of feeling with our own kids. One of our favorite ways? The “run toward the camera” moment. It’s a simple, joy-filled shot to try at home—and it’s full of personality. No two takes are ever the same. You'll capture surprise expressions, goofy grins, flying hair, and moments of pure joy.
Want to try it with your own kids? Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get the shot.
Step 1: Switch to Shutter Priority Mode
Your camera has a mode called Shutter Priority, and it’s perfect for capturing motion. This setting lets you choose the shutter speed, while your camera handles the rest—like aperture and ISO—for a properly exposed photo.
On Canon, look for TV (Time Value).
On Nikon, it’s labeled S (Shutter).
We recommend starting with a shutter speed of 1/500 or faster to freeze the motion clearly.
Step 2: Turn On Continuous Focus
Next, turn on your camera’s continuous autofocus mode. This allows your camera to keep focusing on your child even as they move toward you.
On Canon, it’s called AI Servo.
On Nikon, look for AF-C.
This feature is key—it helps your camera adjust focus in real-time, so you get sharp images instead of blur.
Step 3: Set the Scene and Let Them Run
Find an open area and have your child stand about 20 feet away. This gives your camera enough time to track focus and capture multiple frames as they run.
Aim your focus on their face, hold down the shutter button, and let the magic happen. We usually do several takes—not just to improve our chances, but because the kids love it. They get more creative with each run, and the candid expressions are always worth it.
Bonus Idea: Turn It Into a Keepsake
If you capture a few great expressions at different distances, turn them into a photo series! You can frame a trio of shots in one frame or create a collage that shows your child in motion. It’s a fun way to highlight a single moment—frozen in a few unforgettable frames.
To this day, our kids still look back at those photos and laugh. They don’t just see a picture—they remember the moment. And honestly, that’s what it’s all about.