Photographing a family is one of the most precious things one can do. It freezes the time and allows us to revisit those memories again and again. However, it's not always straightforward to capture great family pictures even if you don't have a much expertise behind the camera.
That's why we turned to Dubai photographer for families Alona Koenig to get her tips for taking great family photos. Alona has been taking photos of families for many years and has got a lot of experience in making sure everyone is comfortable and relaxed before the camera.
Here are Alona's top tips to take great family pictures:
Select the best time of day
The best time for family pictures is during the morning or later in the afternoon, when the light is soft and warm. Avoid taking photos in the middle of the day, when the sun is high in the sky and casts harsh shadows on faces. If you can, plan to take photos outdoors in an open space with plenty of natural light.
Here are some great times of day to plan you shoot (and why):
Golden hour
This is the time, that is just before sunset, and in which the sunlight is warm and golden. It's the perfect time to start photographing photos with an "glow" to them.
Blue hour
This is the hour just after sunset in which the sky is still clear but it has changed to a dark blue hue. Blue hour is a great opportunity to capture pictures that are full of mood.
Twilight
It's the period between sunset and nightfall, when there's very little illumination. The time of sunset is ideal to take creative pictures using long exposures or using flash that is not built into the camera.
Find the correct location
The place you select for the family photo shoot will influence the overall mood of the pictures. If you're looking to capture the feeling of a relaxed weekend at home, choose a location that's comfortable as well as familiar for your loved ones. If you're looking to capture the experience of an adventure or vacation select a spot that is new and exciting. If you're looking to capture a certain atmosphere or emotion, pick an area that is able to evoke that emotion.
A few great spots to take family photos are:
The beach
A park or garden
An urban setting
A nature reserve
Your backyard is yours
Get everyone involved
One of the best ways to ensure everyone has a great time during the photo shoot is to involve everyone involved in the process. Invite your family members to assist with things such as choosing the location, choosing outfits, and posing for photographs. This more info will make them get more involved in the photo shoot and will make the experience more fun for everyone.
Here are a few ways you can get everyone involved:
Let everyone choose their own clothes. This will make them feel more comfortable and stylish before the camera.
If you're shooting outside, request your family members to help in choosing the ideal location for the camera or choosing the best path to walk.
Encourage everyone to strike a pose. Posing can be a great way to get everyone to take a break and relax during the photo shoot.
Break the ice
If your family is feeling awkward or uncomfortable when it comes to taking pictures Try breaking the ice with some humorous jokes or funny pictures. This can help them get comfortable and relax when they are in front of the camera.
You can also try playing various games or engaging in activities that get everyone laughing and interacting with one another. This will help you capture natural, candid moments that you will cherish for the years to be.
A few great games to break the ice and activities include:
Simon Says
I Spy
Charades
Truth or Dare
Categories
Don't be afraid to get imaginative
Don't be afraid to experiment with your camera's settings or test new poses. This is an excellent way to add some personality to your photos and make them unique.
Things you can try with are:
Camera settings: play with the shutter speed, aperture and ISO to make various effects.
Lens options: You can use a wide-angle lens or a Telephoto lens to alter the perspective of your photographs.
Posing: try different ways to arrange your family members, or have them interact with each other in a variety of ways.
Props: add some excitement to your photos using props such as umbrellas, balloons or signs.
Be prepared
The most important thing to have success in a photo shoot is being prepared. Be sure to have everything you require before the day of the shoot so you're able to focus on taking great photographs.
The things you'll need carry with you are:
Your camera and lenses
Extra batteries and memory cards
The tripod (if you're using one)
Props (if you're using any)
Outfits (if you're planning a wardrobe change)
A first-aid kit (just in the event)
drinks and snacks (for yourself and for your entire family)
Sunscreen (if you're shooting outdoors)
Insect repellent (if you're shooting outdoors)
Take your time.
One of the most important things to keep in mind when you're taking family pictures is to be patient. It's not an event, therefore there's no reason to rush.
Make sure you take your time setting up every shot, and snap the number of photos you'll need to achieve the best shot. If you don't get the cooperation of someone or something doesn't go as website planned, don't worry - there's always the next shot.
The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process. After all, these photos are designed to record a moment which you as a loved ones will cherish for long time to come.
Final Thoughts
Photo shoots with family members can prove to be lots of fun however, they can also be quite difficult. If you follow these guidelines, you'll be able to maximize your photo shoot and create beautiful memories that will be cherished for the rest of your life.
Alona Koenig works as photographer from Dubai photography studio for family photographers who is a specialist in capturing candid moments and natural interactions. Alona has been photographing families for more than 10 years, and she is passionate about documenting the bonds between parents and children. Visit her website to view her portfolio, or contact her to book a session.