10 tips to great family portraits

I’m always asked, what are the best tips you can give to families coming for a photo shoot session. Here are a few of the tips I tell my customers when they come for a family portrait.

1. Let kids be kids in a family portrait

The last thing you want to do is to control your kids too much during a photo shoot. If they want stand, let them stand. If they prefer to sit, then sit. Kids usually don't do well when you pressure them too much. Too much stress on them, they will likely fuss and the session is likely to end prematurely. Photos tends to look better when kids are really having fun than them faking a smile.

2. “Stick” close to one another

During the photoshoot, everyone should always be close to one another. There should be no spaces in between each and everyone. Overlapping your bodies and your family photo will look "closer" and more "bonded". Sometimes the photographer may break this rule but generally, its always better to "stick" to one another.

3. Wear something simple

You should dress in something comfortable and simple during a family shoot. Choose a neutral colour or a coordinated colour. It's usually easier to coordinate the colours than to match them.

As much as possible, try to avoid wearing all whites or blacks, also try to avoid clothing that will limit posing options. (example, lying down, jumping, etc...)

4. Book the correct timing

Timing for the photography session is critical, especially for family with small kids. Your kids' playing time is usually the best time to schedule for the session. Try to avoid meals and sleeping time.

5. Out you go

If your little ones are a little uncomfortable of strangers and new place, try to do an outdoor shoot instead. The photographers can shoot from afar. Your kids will be less stressed up and the photos will usually turn our better.

6. Try to do something fun

Other than the formal family portrait, you should think about a fun idea to do during the photo shoot. Discuss it with your photographer and see how he/she can bring it to life. Don't worry if you don't have any ideas, just having the thought fun bring magic to your photos.

7. Glasses

If you can, try to wear contacts to a photoshoot session. Else, if you really need to wear glasses, wear a pair of glasses that doesn't have multi coating on them so that lighting reflection will not be coloured.

8. Keep it simple

Remember that the focus here is your family. Bringing too much props into the photo will not help much. Sometimes, the props are only there to keep the kids entertained.

9. Me, myself and I

Kids are usually fantastic in front of the camera. They are always amazing to look at regardlessly. During the shoot, its more important to mind your own posture, attire and expressions than your kids.

10. Put your hands up!

Many of us don't know what to do with our hands during a photoshoot. The only thing not to do here is to put it by the side of your body.

Try these simple poses, hold your spouses hand, place it around his/her waist, hug your kids, place them on their shoulder, place them in your pocket, put them around your waist, etc... anything but by your sides.

With these tips, you will do great with the family shoot. Do not forget to print these amazing photos into canvas or/and acrylics. They will be a great family heirloom and a constant reminder of your family love.

Written by

Red Studios

photographyfamily portrait