The ability to capture a family's photos is one of the most treasured things that anyone 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 - especially if you don't have a lot of experience behind the camera.
We turned to Dubai photographer for families Alona Koenig for her best tips for taking great family photos. Alona has been taking family photos for a long time, and has experienced in making sure everyone is at ease and comfortable when it comes to taking photos.
Here are the top tips of Alona to take great family pictures:
Select the best time of day
The best time to take family photos is in the morning or later in the afternoon as the lighting is warm and soft. Do not take pictures during daylight hours when the sun is high in the sky. It casts harsh shadows onto faces. If you can, make plans to shoot outdoors in an open space with plenty of natural light.
Here are some great time of day when you can plan your shoot (and the reason why):
Golden hour
This is the hour that is just before sunset, and in which the lighting is golden and warm. It's an ideal time for taking photos that have a "glow" to the photos.
Blue hour
This is the hour right after sunset and the sky still appears light but has turned a deep blue color. Blue hour is a great time for taking atmospheric pictures that are full of mood.
Twilight
This is the time between sunset and evening, when there's very little lighting. Twilight is a great time to take creative pictures using long exposures, or with an flash that is not built into the camera.
Find the appropriate place
The location you pick for your family photo shoot will have a big impact on the overall mood of the pictures. If you're hoping to capture the feeling of a relaxed weekend at home, select a location that's comfortable and familiar to your family. If you're trying to capture the excitement of an adventure or vacation, choose a location that's exciting and new. And if you want to capture a certain mood or feeling, choose a location that evokes this emotion.
A few great spots for family pictures include:
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 is having a good time during photography is to get everyone involved in the process. Have your family members help with things like choosing the location, deciding on outfits, and even posing for photos. This will help them feel more invested in the shoot, and will make the experience more fun for everyone.
Here are some ways you can get everyone involved:
Let everyone choose their own style. This will help them feel more at ease and fashionable in front of the camera.
If you're shooting outdoors invite your family members for help in choosing the best location for the camera, or deciding on the most suitable way to walk.
Encourage everyone to strike an oblique pose. Posing can be a great opportunity to let everyone relax and have some click here fun during the photo shoot.
Break the ice
If your family feels shy or awkward in front of the camera, try breaking the ice by making jokes or funny faces. This will help them become more relaxed and comfortable when they are in front of the camera.
It is also possible to play some games or doing some activities that can bring everyone together and have fun with each other. This will allow you to record candid and natural moments that you will cherish for many years to come.
A few great games to break the ice or activities comprise:
Simon Says
I Spy
Charades
Truth or Dare
Categories
Don't be afraid to be imaginative
Don't be check here afraid to experiment with the settings of your camera or experiment with new poses. This is an excellent way to inject some personality into your photos and make them unique.
Things you can try with are:
Camera settings: Play around with the aperture, shutter speed, and ISO to create different effects.
Lens choices: try using wide-angle lenses or a zoom lens to alter the perspective of your photographs.
Posing: Try different ways of arranging your family members, or have them interact by using different ways.
Props: Add some flair to your photos with props like balloons, umbrellas, or signs.
Prepare yourself
The key to a successful photo shoot is to be prepared. Make sure you have everything you require before the day of the shoot, so that you are able to concentrate on taking great pictures.
The things you'll need take along include:
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 changing your wardrobe)
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)
Be patient and take your time.
One of the most important aspects to remember when taking family photographs is to take your time. This isn't any kind of race, therefore there's no reason to rush.
Set up your camera in a thoughtful manner for each shot, and take the number of photos you'll need to achieve the best shot. If someone doesn't cooperate or something doesn't go as planned do not worry, there's always a second chance.
But most importantly, have fun and enjoy the process. In the end, these pictures are meant to record a moment that you and your family will cherish for the years to come.
Final Thoughts
Family photo shoots can be a lot of fun but they can be a bit challenging. By following these tips you'll be able make the most of your photo shoot and create stunning memories that last a lifetime.
Alona Koenig works as an experienced Dubai photography studio for family photographers who is a specialist in capturing candid moments and interactions that are natural. Alona has been photographing families for over 10 years, and she is passionate about documenting the bond between children and parents. Visit her website to see her portfolio, or call her to book a session.