With about a week until Thanksgiving I wanted to add a few more photo tips to the list I provided in my previous blog, which encouraged you to take as many pictures as possible during your holiday gathering.
First, it’s one of the biggest factors that gets overlooked when taking group shots–choosing a designated shooter. You can find the perfect location, the perfect outfit, and have subjects with perfect dispositions, but if you don’t have a qualified photographer on hand to snap the shot all your hard work will be for naught. If you have a family friend who is an avid photographer or someone who is not needed in a particular shot then ask for his or her assistance. In most cases, though, you’re better off using the timer on your camera. However, if you are doing so, it is vital that you know how to use the self-timer function in advance of the family photo shoot.
Traditionally, holiday gatherings yield formal portraits, but I also like to use the opportunity to capture candid shots. For example, one year I set my camera on the tripod and used the self-timer to capture a big group hug. This year I want to get my mom and dad in a group hug with their grandchildren. I’ll take a shot of their hug, then, as everyone releases, capture those moments as well. That’s when I plan to shoot close-ups of the kids’ faces and tender moments between my daughter and her cousins. Hopefully. Given their ages (3 and under) I am trying to be optimistic. I almost positive I can pull it off, but I am realistic too, and know that I must figure out a time when all the children are in cooperative moods so I capture more smiles than tears.
Finally, when taking informal group shots remember that not everyone needs to be looking at the camera. The main goal is to document your family as a unit at its best. If you have 9-month-old who is looking at the family dog while you are snapping a shot, don’t let it stress you out. Capturing a large family during a single event can be challenging, but in most cases you’ll find it’s well worth the effort.
Related Articles:
Thanksgiving–The Perfect Photo Op
Photography Lessons: The Rule of Thirds
Telling A Story With Your Shots
More Common Sense Tips To Capturing A Frame-Worthy Picture
Common Sense Tips To Capturing Frame-Worthy Pictures