When was the last time you updated your family portrait? It’s been nearly three years since my family sat down for a formal photo, which is why I figured this summer would be a great time for an update. We went, we sat, we smiled, and then I nearly fainted when I saw how much we owed the photographer for the session.
Next time I plan to ask a shutterbug friend take our shots. It’s a good way to save money. What’s more, with a little practice just about anyone with an interest in photography can take stellar group shots. The following tips will help you or someone you trust with a camera to snap frame worthy family photos:
Indoor Sessions: If your photo session is taking place inside, watch the windows. Do not position subjects directly in front of a window. Doing so will wash out the shot. Next, stick with a basic background. You don’t want a shot where a floor lamp appears to be growing out of Uncle John’s head or a plant is hanging over Aunt Wanda’s shoulder. Finally, less is more. Bright colors and busy patterns act as distractions. The focus of your photo should be the family, not the backdrop.
Outdoor Sessions: Family photos look extra special when taken in the great outdoors. If you want to book an outdoor photo session remember to keep it simple. You don’t want the scenery to upstage your family members. Next, examine all your options. Local parks offer a plethora of picturesque settings, including fountains, flowery fields and gazebos. Finally, be mindful of reflections. Outdoor locations, such as lakes or ponds can reflect light in undesirable places. Avoid locations where the sun’s reflection will wreck havoc on your photo shoot.
Placement: When arranging subjects for a large group shot, be sure that shorter family members are in the front and taller ones are in the back. Larger adults should be placed on the sides of a group so they don’t dominate the photo. Also, you might consider arranging subjects in a circular or oval pattern to avoid losing smaller children in a mass of family members. Also, don’t be afraid to experiment with props and positions. The females in the family can sit on chairs below a semicircle of tall men, while children can kneel or site in front of the entire group.
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