Have you ever seen those gorgeous storytelling pictures online with kids in the perfect light surrounded by shadows? Have you ever wondered how they managed to get their kids to co-operate in the right light at the right time?

Taking photos of children can be very similar to wildlife photography in the sense that you need to try and capture them in their own environment before they notice you and run away. I like to do a few little sneaky things to make sure we can get some natural photos and we also get this in the best setting for lighting and backdrop.

Firstly, create a little space for them to interact and play in. For example, I'll set up paints on the kitchen table or put toys in the middle of the room where I know the lighting will be perfect. I'll do the same outdoors by setting up the sprinkler in the perfect position to get the late afternoon glow or I'll drag the trampoline to the side of the yard that has the best light for that time of day.

Once your trap is set, you just have to add the bait. This can be as easy as asking them to paint a picture for their friend's birthday or yell out that the sprinkler is on in the front yard.

The final step is to let them be. Try not to give to many instructions for this type of photo or they'll loose interest and run away just as fast as they came.

Another final sneaky tip, this doesn't just work on kids. I often set up a spot for the grandparents to sit when they arrived so I can photograph the kids playing and chatting with them. Sometimes the older generation can be just as difficult to get in front of the camera as the young ones, especially if they know you're taking a photo of them.