Preparations are under way to make sure this year's competition is another success.

Keith Smith, group director of photographers The Portrait Group, says: "Our photographers really enjoy working with the children. A lot of preparation and specialist training goes into it.

"The key with children is patience and people skills – our photographers spend a lot of time on their level, making silly noises to help them relax into their environment."

Youngsters are photographed against a neutral background to allow the children's natural beauty to shine through.

But Keith says the best pictures are the ones where youngsters ooze confidence and have a naturally sunny temperament.

Bright colours work well against the background and Keith recommends dressing your child in a strong colour for a really bright effect.

The studios are open between 10am and 4pm and Keith advises parents to choose a time of day when their youngster will be relaxed and well rested.

To enter , pop along to the studio in The Mall, St George's this week.

Portraits will be printed in a special supplement in the Lancashire Evening Post with kids divided into age groups.

The five cutest, as voted for by our readers, will go through as finalists before our panel of judges who will decide on one winner and one runner-up in each category. They will receive superb portrait prizes.

For full details of our contest, see the Lancashire Evening Post or visit our Cute Kids 2008 section on this site.