No doubt, time spent with family members is the most memorable. You share the childhood stories. Your kid says something funny that reminds you of your childhood. Also, you have a strong connection that gives you a sense of belonging and peace of mind. The family moments do not happen regularly.
For this reason, you need to record and keep a photo for rekindling your memory. A good photographer can capture the fun moment that will reignite your experience whenever you see those photos. But taking family photos can be challenging. However, it is not impossible, here are superb tips to help you shoot a perfect photo with your family:
Find a perfect location for the photo session
Location is a crucial aspect of any photo session. When you choose a perfect site, your photos will be amazing. The same case will happen with a poor site. It is crucial to work with the family members in picking a photography site.
Notably, family photos will be amazing when shot in an outdoor space than indoors. Advice your clients on this aspect. After choosing the location, you should consider visiting it before D-day. The visit will help you have some critical ideas of how to go on with the session.
Determine the family attires
When handling a photoshoot involving family members, their dressing code is essential. You need to advise the members how they should dress. Ask them to wear solid colors when the session is not a themed one.
If the family has kids and young ones, you should advise the members to carry some spare clothes. This aspect will help the family avoid taking a photo of children with dirty clothes. So, as a photographer, you have the role of advising your clients on the perfect attire for the day.
Make it a fun moment
The family moment is a fun time. Whether it is a birthday or common get-togethers, members enjoy spending time with their relatives. The photo session should form part of these moments. Your clients should be having fun when capturing their images.
Remember, the photos will work as lifetime memories of the day. So, you must make the session a fun moment to help your clients re-experience it whenever they see these photos.
Capture natural interactions
Probably, you have come across amazing family photos. The pictures feature family members playing or laughing. You admire how the pictures appear as they look very natural. The interactions between the members make it appear as if someone captured them without their knowledge.
While you may think that doing this is simple, it might be one of the challenging tasks. But, it is possible to achieve it. You can inspire the interactions by taking control of the session and directing each member on what to do.
For instance, if the session involves kids, guide them on the action they need like hug your mum or dad, do a high-five, or tickle your peer. This way, you will create and capture natural interactions.
Avoid long sessions
One mistake many photographers make is organizing long family photo sessions. Unlike the wedding, birthday, or baby shower, a family session needs to be a short one. Any photos of family you see are ones that took a maximum of 10 minutes. Having short sessions comes with a package of benefits.
For instance, the members are in relax mood. They can smile and laugh without trying to force it. Also, they have a perfect pose that is not easy to lose within a short time. Long sessions become boring and hinder natural poses. So, always ensure your sessions with family are short.
Feed the members well
One principle is central in group photos: feed your crew first. This aspect is not different when working on a family photographic session. Your work will only be perfect when you work with members who have a full stomach. People with full stomachs and well-rested are always happy. They will be smiling and make your photo session an awesome one.
So, before getting the members to the session, take time to offer them something to eat. You can consider having some snacks for the children. As well, ensure you breastfeed your baby to avoid disruptions.
Choose the perfect time
Time is a factor that every photographer should prioritize in a photo session with the family. While you can capture the family’s photos at any time, not every hour will offer you the desired results. The best moment for capturing photos is during morning or evening hours. The midday offers bright light that may affect the photo session.
Evening hours particularly before sunset provides superb scenery for an emotionally filled family photo. So, it is essential to choose the perfect time for your clients’ family photography.
Include your pets
Do you have a pet at your home? In most cases, people exclude their pets on a family photoshoot. They think that these are animals and only require special capturing. If you are one of them, you have a wrong assumption. Pets are crucial members of your family. When you feel low, you run to them for consolation.
Taking time playing with your Chihuahua or kitten brightens your mood. The same feeling you need to include in your family picture. As you go for family photography, do not leave these crucial members behind. Some pets feature amazing poses that will make your photos distinctive. Without them, your photo will be incomplete.
Wrapping up
In a word, family moments are the most fun experiences. You enjoy interacting with people who value and understand you better. No good way to keep this moment as a living memory than through a family photo.
However, capturing one can be a challenging experience. The case can be harder for photographers to do it for the first time. Fortunately, you can do a photo involving family members like an expert. All you need is to consider the above tips to make it a successful photo session.
I’m a 20-something stay-at-home mother and wife. I have an amazing husband, a beautiful daughter, two loving dogs, and a lazy cat. I wouldn’t change my life for anything! I love to read, listen to music, cook and blog!
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