Capturing a family in photos is among the most cherished things anyone could do. It freezes the time and allows us to revisit those memories again and repeatedly. But it's not always easy to take great family photographs - especially when you don't have a many years of experience behind the camera.
That's why we turned to Dubai family photographer Alona Koenig to get her top tips on creating great family pictures. Alona has been taking photos of families for a long time, and has experienced in making sure that everyone is relaxed and comfortable in front of the camera.
Here are Alona's top tips to take great family pictures:
Select the best time of day
The ideal time to capture family photos is in the morning or in the late afternoon as the light is soft and warm. Do not take pictures during daylight hours when the sun is high in the sky and casts harsh shadows on faces. If you can, make plans to take pictures outdoors in an open place that is lit by natural lighting.
Here are some excellent times of day to plan you shoot (and why):
Golden hour
This is the time, that is just before sunset, and when the sunlight is warm and golden. It's the perfect time to start photographing photos with a "glow" to them.
Blue hour
This is the hour right after sunset and the sky still appears light but it has changed to a dark blue color. Blue hour is a great time for taking atmospheric photos with a lot of mood.
Twilight
It's the time period between sunset and evening, where there isn't much lighting. It's a wonderful time for taking creative photos with long exposures or with flashes that are not on the camera.
Find the correct location
The location you pick for your family photo shoot will influence the overall feel of the pictures. If you're looking to capture the feeling of a relaxing weekend at home with your family, pick an area that is comfortable and familiar to your family. If you're looking to capture the experience of an adventure or vacation select a spot that is new and exciting. And if you want to capture a particular atmosphere or emotion, pick a location that evokes the emotion.
Some great locations to take family photos are:
The beach
A garden or park
An urban setting
A nature reserve
Your backyard
Get everyone involved
One of the best ways to ensure that everyone has a great time at photography is to get everyone involved. Invite your family members to help with things like choosing the location, picking out outfits, and even posing for photographs. This will help them get more involved in the shoot, and it will make the experience more fun for everyone.
Here are a few ways to get everyone involved:
Let everyone pick out their own clothes. This will allow them to feel more at ease and fashionable in front of the camera.
If you're shooting outside, ask your family members for help in finding the perfect spot to set up the camera, or deciding on the most suitable route to walk.
Make sure everyone strikes a pose. Posing can be a great method to encourage everyone to relax and have some fun during the photo shoot.
Break the Ice
If your family feels awkward or uncomfortable in front of the camera, try breaking the ice with some jokes or funny expressions. This can help them relax and feel more comfortable before the camera.
Try playing some games or doing some activities that bring everyone together and have fun with one another. This can help you record candid and natural moments that will be cherished 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 to be imaginative
Don't be afraid to play around with the settings of your camera or try new posing ideas. This is a great method to add some personality to your photos and make them more unique.
Things you can try with include:
Camera settings: Play around with the shutter speed, aperture, and ISO to produce different effects.
Lens options: You can use either a wide-angle or Telephoto lens to alter the perspective of your photographs.
Posing: try different ways of arranging your family members, or even have them interact with each other by using different ways.
Props: add some interest to your photos using props like umbrellas, balloons or signs.
Prepare yourself
The key to an effective photo shoot is to be prepared. Make sure you have everything you need before the date of your shoot, so you can focus on taking great photographs.
The things you'll need bring with you include:
Camera and lens
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)
Kit for first aid (just in the event)
Drinks and snacks (for both you and your family)
Sunscreen (if you're shooting outdoors)
Insect repellent (if you're shooting outdoors)
Be patient and take your time
A key things to keep in mind when taking family photographs is to take your time. This isn't an event, therefore there's no need to rush.
Set up your camera in a thoughtful manner for each shot, and then take as many photos as you'll need to achieve the perfect shot. If someone doesn't cooperate or something doesn't go as planned do not worry, there's always the next shot.
But most importantly, be happy and enjoy the process. After all, these photos are meant to preserve a moment to cherish with your loved ones will cherish for long time to come.
Final Thoughts
Photo shoots with family members can prove to be lots of enjoyable but they can be quite difficult. With these suggestions you'll be able get the most out of your photo shoot and create beautiful memories that will last for a lifetime.
Alona Koenig is a Dubai family photographer who specializes in capturing candid moments and genuine interactions. Alona has more info been photographing families for more than 10 years and loves documenting the unique bonds between parents and Dubai family photographer children. Visit her website to view her portfolio or get in touch with her to book a session.