Some photographers may shudder at even the mention of family photography just thinking of all the challenges of getting an entire group to pose together. But family photography doesn’t have to be something to fear, in fact, it can turn out to be a super fun project for photographers.
If you’re a good people person and you’ve got the right photography skills, you have nothing to worry about. Even if you don’t possess any of this, we’ve got just the right tips and techniques to get you started on the right path.
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Top 7 tips to capture a great family photo
1. Avoid multiple rows
If you’re shooting only a hand full of people, don’t split them up into multiple rows. If you are forced to do so due to the number of members present, try and get them all huddled up close to each other so that it’s easier to get everyone in focus. If you end up with two rows of people, try to focus on the person who’s front and centre.
2. Capture special occasions
If it’s possible to schedule the family photo shoot on a special occasion, do so to make the photograph filled with memories. Capturing family traditions on Christmas or scary costumes on Halloween can be a good way to immortalise their fun-filled memories, as opposed to wearing matching attire in a random park on a Sunday morning.
3. Schedule the shoot early
If there are children involved in the shoot, it’s best to start the shoot early, probably in the morning when they’re well-rested and have had some breakfast. This way the kids will be full of energy and you’ll be prepared to capture their liveliness. Everyone will be able to relax and enjoy the shoot instead of trying to figure out how to get the toddler to crack a smile for the picture.
4. Try different combinations
It’s good to start off with a classic shot of the entire family so that they understand and get used to the notion of their picture being taken. Soon after you can try a combination of family members to get some interesting results. Just try different combinations to see what you can produce. This can even be a fun warm-up exercise to raise everyone’s spirits.
5. There’s no need to look at the camera
Let the family know that there’s no mandate that everyone should look and smile at the camera. As long as they’re happily engaged and you can capture it, you’re good. So even if their eyes are on each other, their smiles will be natural so your photo will turn out warm and authentic.
6. Be prepared
Family photoshoots won’t always go as planned. So it’s best to be prepared for any possible chaos. Ask the families to bring toys and snack to keep the toddlers happy and cheerful, as well as a change of clothes in case they start playing around outside.
7. Have fun
Lastly, just try to sit back and relax for the shoot. No one’s going to smile and pose for a grumpy cat behind the camera. Make the photo session as fun as possible and get the families to match your level of energy. The most stunning family portraits are a result of truly fun times right before the photo is clicked.
With a little bit of planning, a family photo shoot can be fun for both you and the family you’re shooting. The trick to capturing the perfect family photo is keeping the family engaged, matching their energy, and of course making all of them look as good as possible with your camera. It’s not rocket science, even though it may feel as complex at the moment.
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