Boys being boys – family and character portraiture in Richmond, London

I have never met a single person who, when asked to ‘relax and look natural’ in front of a huge lens pointing in their face, takes a photograph that actually represents their character in some way.

Nor have I ever met a child who will sit still for a photograph.

At least, perhaps they will do for a school photograph. But that’s a school photo for you: well-lit mugshot at best.

But as for any other portraiture of children, they won’t sit still.

I therefore find it takes the stress out of photographing boys when you work with them rather than against them…

Mat Smith Photography Portrait of two boys pulling silly faces