Capturing a family in photos is among the most treasured things that anyone could do. It freezes time and allows us to revisit these moments over and over repeatedly. However, it's not always straightforward to get great family photos particularly when you don't have a much photography experience.
This is why we consulted Dubai photographer for families Alona Koenig for her best tips for making great family photos. Alona has been photographing families for many years and has got a lot of experience in making sure that everyone is at ease and comfortable before the camera.
Here are the top tips of Alona to capture great family photos:
Select the best time of day
The ideal time to take family photos is during the morning or later in the afternoon as the light is soft and warm. Avoid taking photos during midday, when the sun is high in the sky. It casts harsh shadows over faces. If you are able, try to take photos outdoors in an open space that is lit by natural lighting.
Here are some great times of day to plan your shoot (and why):
Golden hour
This is the hour that is just before sunset, and in which the lighting is golden and warm. It's a great time for taking photos that have the appearance of a "glow" to them.
Blue hour
This is the hour right after sunset and the sky is still light but it has changed to a dark blue color. Blue hour is an excellent time for taking atmospheric pictures that are full of mood.
Twilight
It's the period between sunset and evening, where there isn't much illumination. The time of sunset is ideal for taking creative photos with long exposures, or with an off-camera flash.
Find the right address
The location you pick for your family photo shoot will affect the overall atmosphere of the photos. If you're looking to capture the atmosphere of a relaxed weekend at home, select the location that's cozy as well as familiar for your loved ones. If you're trying to capture the feeling of a vacation or adventure select a spot that is new and exciting. If you're trying to capture a certain mood or feeling, choose the location that brings the emotion.
A few great spots for family photos include:
The beach
A garden or park
An urban setting
A nature reserve
Your backyard is yours
Get everyone involved
One best way to ensure everyone has a great time during photography is to get everyone involved in the process. Have your family members help you choose the location, picking out clothes, and taking photos. This will make them be more involved in the shoot, and will make the experience more enjoyable for everyone.
Here are some ideas on how to get everyone involved:
Let everyone choose their own clothes. This will make them feel more comfortable and stylish in front of the camera.
If you're shooting outdoors, request your family members for help in choosing the ideal location to set up the camera, or deciding on the most suitable route to take.
Make sure everyone strikes poses. Posing can be a Dubai family photographer great way to get everyone to take a break and relax when taking photos.
Break the ice
If your family is feeling awkward or uncomfortable when it comes to taking pictures, try breaking the ice by telling humorous jokes or funny pictures. This will allow them to get comfortable and relax in front of the lens.
You can also try playing certain games or participating in activities that get everyone laughing and interacting with one another. This can help you capture natural, candid moments that will be treasured for many 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 of getting creative
Do not be afraid to play with your camera settings or experiment with new poses. This is a great way to give personality to your pictures and make them unique.
Things you can try with include:
Camera settings: Play around with the shutter speed, aperture, and ISO to produce various effects.
Lens choices: try using wide-angle lenses or a telephoto lens to change 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 interest to your photos by using props such as umbrellas, balloons or signs.
Prepare yourself
The key to a successful photo shoot is to be prepared. Be sure to have everything you need before the day of the shoot so that you are able to concentrate on taking stunning pictures.
Some things you'll need to bring with you include:
The camera lens and your lenses
Memory cards and batteries that are not included.
An tripod (if you're using one)
Props (if you're using any)
Outfits (if you're making changing your wardrobe)
A first-aid kit (just in the event of)
drinks and snacks (for you and your family)
Sunscreen (if you're shooting outdoors)
Insect repellent (if you're shooting outdoors)
Take your time
One of the most important things to remember when taking family photos is to take your time. This is not an event, therefore there's no reason to rush.
Make sure you take your time setting up every shot, and snap as many photos as you need to get the perfect shot. And if someone isn't cooperating or if something goes wrong Don't fret - there's always the next shot.
The most important thing is to take your time and have fun with the process. In the end, these pictures are meant to capture a moment in time to cherish with your family will cherish for long time to come.
Final Thoughts
Photographing family photos can be a lot of fun but they can be quite challenging. By following these tips will allow you to get the most out of your photo shoot and create beautiful memories that will be cherished for the rest of your life.
Alona Koenig works as a Dubai family photographer who more info specializes in capturing candid moments and interactions that are natural. Alona has been photographing families for over 10 years and enjoys documenting the special bond between children and parents. Visit her website to see her portfolio, or call her to arrange a photo session.