Carole Gartnier, a mother in Beijing, recounts watching a team of photographers at Fun Dazzle follow a child around. "It is touching to see such interest in recording moments in your child's life, but at the same time, I don't want such a circus following my children around. It's an unnatural experience for everyone."
Global Photo has many clients who go for simple portraits with in-studio backgrounds for their children. Global Photo's Ditto Pei explains that, "Our aim is actually to open up to the Chinese market." Global is relatively affordable, with in-studio photo packages going between RMB 100 and RMB 1,000 per package.

DKids is another popular spot for Beijing parents who want a different setting. "It is always harder to capture a child's emotions in a studio than it is an adult's, because children are always so natural in their behavior," says assistant manager Carol Yang from DKids studios.

Trips organized with DKids to places like the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, or Beijing's Hutongs with a DKids photographer, allow children to let loose. No frills, costumes, or gimmicks are used to entice children into an artificial emotional response. The results are simple, but they really capture a child's personality.

Portraits, studio sessions and party packages are also available. Package deals, including an album of 20 prints, start at RMB 2,000. "We may be one of the most expensive," admits Yang, "but our production is by far the best."

Booking must be done at least a week or more in advance since the staff's obvious affection for their little clients keeps the appointment books full. "We love children. This is why we do this job," says Yang.

Dkids Photography Studio
Location: Room 707, Block B, Jianwai SOHO, Chaoyang District. 
Tel: 010-58691527
Email: dkidsphoto@yahoo.com.cn
Website: www.dkidsphoto.com

Global Photo
Room 2002, C-12 e-Tower Guanghua Road Chaoyang District. 
Tel: 010-65045285
Email: www.globalphoto.com.cn