How to Photograph Family Portraits
If you want to photograph families, keep several factors in mind. Most of all, however, make sure to relax and have fun because the people that you will be photographing will follow your lead. Choosing the right location, time, accessories and camera settings, however, play an important part in creating beautiful family photographs.
Communication
Just like with almost all projects, communication is key to a successful family photography session. When someone signs up for a date, send them a friendly reminder about a week before the event through email, text or a phone call. Then, the day ahead, contact them again just to answer any last minute questions.
Timeline
It is essential to plan the time of day for family photographs carefully unless you want to break your back carrying equipment and pay an assistant to help you. Take advantage of the best natural light by shooting the first two hours after the sun comes up in the morning and the last two hours of the day before the sun sets. You should easily be able to photograph a family in under two hours. Try for under one hour if there are small children involved.
Wardrobe Selection
While many people have their own ideas of what they want to wear for their photographs, many will turn to you for suggestions. Start by recommending that not everyone wear the same color. Then, recommend that families avoid wearing shirts with logos or writing. If you get a chance, recommend that they limit the different textures in clothing to one or two for everyone. Have people wear a classic outfit to the photoshoot and bring a casual one along.
Accessories
When you are communicating with the family find out what they love to do so that you can incorporate those items into the photoshoot. It is a great way to put people at ease allowing you to become a photojournalist. If people love to play sports, throw a football into the car on your way or if they are an angler suggest that they bring a fishing rod along. If elderly members or pregnant women will be in the photo, bring along a lawn chair.
Location
Many photographers choose to work from a studio, but if you do not have one, then suggest some favorite locations based on the family’s interests. Try to pick an area that has a large shaded area and an open area. The family may have suggestions, but check them out before agreeing to shoot there.
Equipment
The best family photos are usually captured with a 24-70 millimeter full-frame lens because it offers little distortion. Try using ISO settings ranging from 100 to 1600 for the best results. Position everyone close to each other and in a single line when possible.
You can easily take family photos by following these tips. Start by communicating with the family and choosing the right time of day. One classic and one casual change of clothes gives everyone a variety of looks. Choose a location based on the family’s interests. Keep everyone close together in a straight line.
Recent Posts
Archives
- November 2021
- May 2021
- October 2020
- May 2018
- October 2017
- April 2017
- March 2017
- January 2017
- December 2016
- November 2016
- October 2016
- September 2016
- June 2016
- May 2016
- April 2016
- February 2016
- January 2016
- May 2014
- April 2014
- March 2014
- February 2014
- January 2014
- December 2013
- September 2013
- June 2013
- February 2013
- January 2013
- December 2012
- November 2012
- September 2012
- August 2012
- July 2012
- June 2012
- May 2012
- April 2012
- March 2012
- February 2012
- January 2012
- December 2011
- October 2011
- September 2011
- February 2011
- January 2011
- December 2010
- November 2010
- October 2010
Categories
- A peek into Ann's life
- Bridal/Rock the Dress Session
- Engagements
- Events
- Family Sessions
- Favorite blog posts from other bloggers
- Maternity
- Musicians
- Newborns
- Photography classes offered
- Press Release
- Promotions
- Published
- Santa's Magical Experience
- Senior High School Students
- Tips and Information
- Uncategorized
- Weddings
- Workshops through my affiliate Portrait Photography Group
Recent Comments