As any parent knows, life moves fast and these precious moments are gone before we know it. Capturing those moments with beautiful family photos is one of the best ways to remember them forever.
However, finding the right photographer can be challenging. With so many photographers offering family portrait services, it’s important to find one who will understand your vision and have a portfolio that matches. A talented and experienced Family Photographer will be able to work with even the most difficult members of your family to create gorgeous natural candid photos.
While some family photographers may prefer to shoot in studio, others take a more documentary approach. This style is especially good for families with kids because it gives the photos a more authentic feel. The photojournalist will usually let the family get on with their day in their natural surroundings, capturing all the emotions of their interactions (happy, sad, excited, teary, creative, quiet).
This type of photography is also known as environmental portraits or lifestyle portraits. It is usually shot in the family’s home or at a place that has a special meaning to them. Some photographers even go so far as to ask the family not to tidy up for the session, letting them keep their homes as they are in daily life.
Whether shooting indoors or outdoors, you will need to have the right equipment. A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the entire scene and a zoom lens can help you get closer to your subject. A macro lens is also useful for capturing close-ups of hands and feet. A tripod is also a must-have for family photographs as it provides extra stability.
A flash unit can be very helpful for family portraits, especially when the light is low. It can be used to add more fill in the shadows, and it can also help you achieve a more flattering skin tone for your subjects.
The lighting in family photos can make or break the images. If possible, try to shoot during the Golden Hour just before sunrise or sunset. The warm light will cast a soft glow over your subjects and give the images a more beautiful tone. If you are shooting indoors, a flash unit with a diffuser or bounced off the ceiling can be used to create a more evenly lit photograph.
When taking family photos, it is important to have fun! If everyone is having a good time, they will be more likely to smile naturally. To keep things interesting, have some small props on hand such as bubble wands for the kids or board games for the parents. This will ensure that the photos are both fun and memorable for everyone involved. In addition, it’s always a good idea to bring extra storage cards for your camera as you will likely be snapping countless photos throughout the session. Then, you can choose the best ones later on during the editing process.