The ability to capture a family's photos is among the most precious things one could do. It freezes time , and allows us to revisit those moments again and repeatedly. But it's not always easy to get great family photos even in the event that you don't have much photography experience.
That's why we turned to Dubai photographer for families Alona Koenig for her tips for making great family photos. Alona has been taking photos of families for many years and has gained a wealth of experience in making sure that everyone is comfortable and relaxed in front of the camera.
Here are the top tips of Alona to capture great family photos:
Choose the right time of day
The best time to take family photos is in the morning or in the late afternoon in the afternoon, when the lighting is warm and soft. Be careful not to take photos during daylight hours when the sun is high up in the sky. It casts harsh shadows on faces. If you can, plan to take pictures outdoors in an open place with plenty of natural light.
Here are some great times of day to plan you shoot (and the reason why):
Golden hour
This is the time, prior to sunset, when the light is warm and golden. It's the perfect time to start snapping photos that have a "glow" to the photos.
Blue hour
It is the time just after sunset and the sky is still light but has turned a deep blue hue. Blue hour is a wonderful moment to take photos with a lot of mood.
Twilight
It's the time period between sunset and nightfall, in which there's not much light. It's a wonderful time to capture creative images using long exposures or using off-camera flash.
Find the right place
The place you select for your family photo shoot will have a big impact on the overall mood of the photographs. If you're hoping to capture the atmosphere of a relaxed weekend at home with your family, pick a location that's comfortable as well as familiar for your loved ones. If you're looking to capture the excitement of a vacation or adventure pick a place that's new and exciting. If you're trying to capture a particular emotion or mood, select a location that evokes this emotion.
The best locations to take family photos are:
The beach
A park or garden
An urban setting
A nature reserve
Your backyard
Get everyone involved
One of the best ways to ensure everyone is having a good time during your photo session is to get everyone involved in the process. Invite your family members to assist with things such as choosing the location, deciding on clothes, and taking photographs. It will allow them to feel more invested in the photo shoot and make the experience more fun for everyone.
Here are some ideas on how you can involve everyone:
Let everyone pick out their own outfit. This will help them feel more comfortable and stylish when they are in front of the camera.
If you're shooting outdoors invite your family members for help in finding the perfect spot to set up your camera, or deciding on the most suitable way to take.
Get everyone to strike an oblique pose. Posing can be a great opportunity to let everyone relax and have some fun when taking photos.
Break the Ice
If your family is feeling awkward or uncomfortable before the camera Try breaking the ice by telling jokes or funny faces. This will allow them to relax and feel more comfortable when they are in front of the camera.
Try playing certain games or participating in activities that bring everyone together and have fun with one another. This will help you record candid and natural moments that you will cherish for many years to be.
The best ice-breaking games and activities include:
Simon Says
I Spy
Charades
Truth website or Dare
Categories
Don't be afraid to get creative
Don't be afraid to play around with your camera settings or test new poses. This is a great method to give personality to your photos and make them more unique.
Things you can try with include:
Camera settings: experiment with the shutter speed, aperture, and ISO to make different effects.
Lens choices: try using a wide-angle lens or a telephoto lens to change the perspective of your photos.
Posing: explore different ways of arranging your family members or even have them interact in a variety of ways.
Props: add some excitement to your photos with props like balloons, umbrellas or even signs.
Prepare yourself
The key to get more info an effective photograph shoot is preparation. Make sure you are prepared with everything you need prior to the day of the shoot, so that you are able to concentrate on taking stunning pictures.
Some things you'll need to carry with you are:
The camera lens and your lenses
Memory cards and batteries that are not included.
The tripod (if you're using one)
Props (if you're using any)
Outfits (if you're planning an outfit change)
A first-aid kit (just in the event of)
drinks and snacks (for both you and your entire family)
Sunscreen (if you're shooting outdoors)
Insect repellent (if you're shooting outdoors)
Make sure you take your time.
One of the most important things to remember 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 can to ensure that you get the best picture. If you don't get the cooperation of someone or if something goes wrong Don't fret - there's always next time.
But most importantly, have fun and enjoy the process. Remember, these photographs are meant to record a moment which you as a loved ones will treasure for many years to come.
Final Thoughts
Photographing family photos can be lots of fun, but they can also be a bit challenging. If you follow these guidelines you'll be able maximize your photo shoot and create stunning memories that last a lifetime.
Alona Koenig works as an experienced Dubai photography studio for family photographers who specializes in taking candid moments and interactions that are natural. Alona has been taking photos of families for over 10 years, and she is passionate about documenting the bonds between parents and children. Visit her website to see her portfolio, or contact her to arrange a photo session.