Sue R. II

@Kris: While I don't have problems directing people, I find it easiest to shoot portraiture when the subjects relax. It is best just to start shooting and keep a dialog going. You can usually expect the first 10 minutes or so to produce nothing special (though accidents can happen!). Sooner or later they and you will fall into a groove and you'll start seeing your shots. With children just forget about all the rules and be prepared to shoot hundreds of photos and offer whatever foolishness or props will work. I love portraiture.