10 tips for fabulous family portraits

In theory, taking a family portrait is pretty easy when actually it’s quite the opposite -- Use these 10 tips to get the perfect family portrait.

Picture perfect

So you scored big time when you married your super-hot husband, and you've been looking mighty fine yourself lately with portion control and after hitting a gym extra hard. Now with the combination of your two, clearly superior genes, the kids turned out to be incredibly cute as well. So what better way to rejoice than to show the world how good looking your family is through family portraits? Should be easy, right? I mean, all you have to do is line the kids up, get your husband to man up with a tie, and make sure everyone’s clothes are wrinkle-free with no chilli sauce running down the front. Easy…super easy.

But it’s not.

We know just as much as you do that taking the "perfect" family portrait is like that yearly trip to the dentist. You don’t like it, it's unpleasant, light being shone in your face and your mouth hanging all agape – but you still do it because it is good for you. In the case of family portraits, you want to have pictures of the kids when they are this age before they turn that age to preserve memories. So, to capture those moments without having to rip your hair out, use these 10 simple tips on taking super, duper awesome family portraits that befit your good looking family.

1. Schedule the photo shoot when kids are their happiest.

Usually, at least for little ones, this means five to six in the evening is the best time. You can’t always get the time you want, but ideally try planning around your kids.

2. Lighting is king.

First tip is mostly applicable to studio shoots but if you opt to al’ fresco, then high noon sunshine is not ideal. Try in the morning or before dusk when it is most beautiful.

3. Budget friendly.

If you want a professional photo shoot, but it’s out of your budget, try looking for a friend that has a DSLR or a photographer on your local Craigslist. Budding photographers always want to expand their portfolio, so you may find someone offering a great deal.

4. Find a packaged deal.

Do your best to buy a package deal that gives you all the digital files for a flat price. This is much easier in the long run, because you’ll have control over all the printing.

5. Coordinate, but don’t match.

Photos look better when everyone blends well, but not too much. And ask yourself this: When you see a photo with the entire family wearing denim shirts, all you see is a sea of denim shirts – not the people.

6. Avoid patterns.

It’s okay if one family member has a simple stripe or a basic design, but too many intricate patterns detract from the faces.

7. Go casual.

The best photos are the ones that look like the family is relaxed, having fun with each other, and basically like they do most any other day of the year.

8. Think outside the box.

The background is not the most important subject of your photo, so keep your location simple. Many cities have beautiful parks and natural settings, but don’t forget your own backyard.

9. Bring props

Just make sure these are props that you don’t mind being in the photo. Just take a deep breath and allow it to be in the picture. Your child will be happier, and you’ll capture a moment of their life.

10. Have fun.

A photo session is supposed to be a fun family time, so don’t let yourself get stressed. Make it playtime and the photographer will be able to focus on the fun. Let people laugh.