Picture Perfect: Captivating Family Portrait Photo Poses You'll Love

Family portraits are a timeless way to capture and remember the special moments in life. Whether you’re looking for a classic shot or something more modern, there are lots of fun poses that will make your family portrait truly unique.

In this article, we explore some of the best portrait poses that will ensure your family’s picture perfect moment is captured forever. From candid shots to posed ones, you’ll find plenty of ideas to inspire your next family photo session!

Classic Family Photo Poses

When it comes to classic family poses, traditional family poses are a timeless way to capture your family's bond. Group hug poses are also a great way to get everyone into the frame and show the loving relationships between family members.

Traditional Family Poses

Nothing beats the classic family portrait poses for a timeless and elegant photo. Traditional family poses are perfect for capturing the special bond between family members, with everyone happily smiling and enjoying each other's company.

For traditional family portrait poses, consider having everyone stand side by side with their arms around each other, or sit together on a bench or sofa to create a cozy atmosphere. You can also have the children sitting in front of the adults to highlight them in the picture, creating an adorable composition that your family will love for years to come.

With these classic family photo poses, you're sure to get a picture perfect shot that captures your special memories together.

Group Hug Poses

For a truly memorable family photo, why not try the classic group hug poses?

It's a great way to bring everyone together and capture those special moments of love between family members.

Have each family member wrap their arms around each other in an embrace and smile for the camera.

This pose can be done with any size of family - from small groups to large families - and is sure to create a beautiful reminder of your time spent together.

If you want to add more impact to the picture, have everyone wear coordinating outfits for a stunning visual effect.

The end result will be a timeless image that your family will treasure forever!

Creative Ways To Pose A Large Family

When it comes to capturing a large family in a photograph, there are a variety of different poses to consider. From group poses, to fun poses, to formal poses, there are plenty of creative ideas to choose from! Let's discuss the different ways to pose a large family, such as sibling poses, couples poses, action poses, and more.

 

Group Poses

Gathering a large family for a portrait can be a challenge, but with the right pose, it can also be a great opportunity to capture the closeness of your loved ones.

Posing your family in a group is one of the most creative ways to highlight how everyone interacts and how everyone fits together.

When planning a group pose, it's important to consider the size and shape of all involved so you can arrange them in an aesthetically pleasing way.

Consider your family dynamics and use those to help guide where each person should stand or sit.

It's also important to keep everyone comfortable and relaxed throughout the process, as this will help ensure that everyone looks their best in the final image.

With some thoughtful preparation and practice, you'll be sure to capture a picture-perfect family portrait!

Sibling Poses

When it comes to capturing a family portrait, sibling poses can be particularly fun and special. It's a great way to highlight the unique relationships between brothers and sisters and show how close they are.

Consider having siblings sit side by side or have one throw their arm around the other for an even more intimate pose. If you have multiple sets of siblings in your family portrait, you can arrange them in a line or create clusters of two or three.

When posing siblings together, it's important to keep their body language natural and relaxed; this will help ensure they look comfortable and at ease in the final image.

With some creative thinking and practice, you'll be sure to capture beautiful sibling poses that will last a lifetime!

Fun And Unconventional Family Photo Ideas

When it comes to outdoor adventure family photos, it's all about capturing the spirit of the family's outdoor passion. Whether you're hitting the slopes, hitting the waves, or just having fun in the park, the possibilities are endless. For textured backgrounds, consider creative backdrops such as graffiti walls, city alleys, or colorful murals. To really stand out, add unexpected props like balloons, musical instruments, or even a pet! With these fun and unconventional ideas, you'll really have a picture perfect family photo.

Fun Family Portrait Photos by Dadi Precious Photography

Outdoor Adventure

Capture the spirit of adventure with an outdoor family portrait! Whether you're posing in front of your favorite landmark or venturing off on a hike together, outdoor family poses can create an unforgettable and unique photo experience that will stand out from traditional portrait photography.

From grandparents poses to the entire extended family, there are plenty of ways to make your outdoor portraits truly special. Use props to add character or ask everyone to wear coordinating outfits for a fun and cohesive look. Just remember to keep it relaxed and natural so that you can capture genuine smiles and laughter in your photos.

With some creativity and planning, you can create beautiful memories that will last a lifetime!

Textured Backgrounds

Using creative family poses, you can make your portraits stand out even more by incorporating interesting textures into the background. Whether it's a grassy field or a textured wall, adding depth to your photos with a unique backdrop will make your portrait pose truly special.

You can also add natural elements like tree branches or flowers to create an extra-special touch. Play around with different combinations to find the perfect combination that showcases your family's personality and style!

With some experimentation, you'll be able to capture beautiful memories that will last for years to come.

Unexpected Props

For a truly unique family portrait, why not try out some unexpected props?

Candid family poses are great for capturing genuine moments between family members, but adding in a few props can take it to the next level.

From a colorful parasol to a toy airplane, any object you choose can be used to create an interesting and unique family pose.

It's all about getting creative and having fun with it!

Not only will these props add an extra element of playfulness to your photos, but they can also help tell a story about your family's personality.

So don't be afraid to experiment with different props and capture those candid moments that make your photo session truly special.

Outdoor And Indoor Photo Poses

Let's start off by discussing outdoor poses. There are so many possibilities when it comes to outdoor photography, so it's important to get creative. Next, let's take a look at indoor poses. Whether you're in a studio or at home, there are plenty of ways to create an interesting and unique portrait. Lastly, let's not forget about the fun poses! You can really have a blast with these, so don't be afraid to let your creative juices flow.

Outdoor Poses

When it comes to outdoor family poses, the possibilities are endless.

From quaint and natural settings to vibrant colors and unique backdrops, the results can be simply captivating.

Whether you're looking for an elegant portrait of your family or a fun-filled, candid shot of everyone laughing together, outdoor photography offers something for everyone.

To get started, consider utilizing natural family poses that bring out the beauty of your family dynamic.

Try standing in a line with each member in a different pose or find ways to interact and have fun with one another!

For example, Dad could give Mom a piggyback ride while the kids jump around him!

Have fun exploring different poses and find what works best for you.

With so many breathtaking outdoor settings available and endless possibilities for creative shots, you'll be sure to capture a picture perfect moment with your family.

Indoor Poses

If you're looking for something a bit more intimate, indoor family poses are the perfect option. Though there may not be as many natural backdrops, indoor poses can still bring out the beauty of your family dynamic.

With the help of a photographer, you can create unique and creative poses that will make for a stunning portrait. Family portrait poses with baby can be especially adorable and timeless in an indoor setting. Utilize furniture to prop up smaller children or let everyone snuggle together on the couch!

The possibilities are endless when it comes to finding the perfect pose indoors - so don't be afraid to get creative! Capture all your favorite memories with an unforgettable family photograph that you'll cherish forever.

Fun Poses

Now that we've looked at the different types of poses for indoors, let's discuss some fun family poses for outdoors!

There are so many options for both informal and formal outdoor family portraits. From silly poses to classic shots, there is no shortage of family portrait pose inspiration.

Whether you're looking to capture your family's goofy side or to take a timeless photo, outdoor photos have endless possibilities. Have everyone jump around or strike a funny pose - it's up to you!

Get creative with fun props like colorful balloons or even a blanket. With outdoor settings, the possibilities are truly endless when it comes to capturing your family's unique dynamic in photos that will last a lifetime.

Capturing Special Moments With Candid Photos

When it comes to capturing special moments with candid photos, it's all about capturing the emotions of the moment. Through composition tips and natural lighting, you can create beautiful images that capture the unique personalities of your family. Let's explore how to make the most of your family portrait session and create picture perfect memories that you'll love!

Capturing Emotions

Capturing emotions is a must-have in any family portrait session. When looking through the photos years from now, you want to remember not just what everyone looked like but how they were feeling at the moment.

With that in mind, I'd suggest having at least one pose idea that really highlights these feelings. Have your family members snuggle up close together, or have them look off to the side with a slight smile on their faces - whatever makes them feel most comfortable and allows you to capture their personalities will make for a stunning family portrait.

It's all about finding that perfect pose idea that brings out the emotion of the moment and captures it forever!

Composition Tips

Once you have the perfect pose idea that captures your family's emotions, it's time to think about composition tips.

Family portrait photography poses should draw the viewer in and help tell a story.

Consider having everyone look toward the camera, or have them interact with each other and create interesting angles by having them move around on either side of the frame.

Be creative with your family portrait ideas and take advantage of any unique features in the environment such as natural light or interesting textures.

Composition is key when it comes to creating a stunning collection of photos that will be cherished for years to come!

Natural Lighting

Now that you've got the perfect pose and composition down, it's time to discuss how natural lighting can really enhance your family photos.

Natural light can create a beautiful atmosphere in any photo, and when it comes to family photos, it's no different!

To make use of natural lighting, try taking your photos either early in the morning or late afternoon when the light is softer and more flattering.

You could also take advantage of shadows to add depth and texture to your family photo poses.

Experiment with different angles to see which one captures the best natural family poses while using the available light or even adding additional lighting such as reflectors or diffusers for a more dramatic effect.

With natural lighting, you'll be able to capture those special moments in time that will be cherished forever.

Posing Tips For Working With A Professional Family Photographer

When posing family members for a portrait, think about how each person can be arranged to create a balanced composition. Make sure to capture natural expressions, so that the end result looks authentic and genuine. Lastly, consider the clothing and props that will be used, as they can help to create the desired atmosphere.

Posing Family Members

When it comes to capturing great family portrait, there's no one-size-fits-all solution.

Every family is unique and their poses should reflect that!

When working with a professional photographer, family members should come to the shoot prepared with ideas for poses that best capture their dynamic as a unit.

Whether you choose traditional posed shots or more candid captures, make sure to coordinate your outfits so that you look cohesive and polished in every shot!

With a little creativity, you can create timeless family portraits that will provide a beautiful memento of your family’s special bond.

Capturing Natural Expressions

Once you've decided on the poses you want to capture, it's time to focus on bringing out natural expressions.

It's important to create a relaxed atmosphere and allow your family members to let their personalities shine through.

Encourage them to interact with each other and enjoy the moment, rather than simply posing for the camera.

By being creative and tapping into the unique dynamics of your family unit, you can capture beautiful natural expressions that will make your family portraits stand out!

Choosing Clothing And Props

Now that you've selected the poses and created a relaxed atmosphere, it's time to think about what you'll wear for your family photography session.

It's important to choose clothing that complements each other, as well as the setting of the photoshoot.

If you're having trouble deciding on colors, consider incorporating a few props such as blankets or flowers to help tie everything together.

Don't be afraid to also get creative with your family pet! A fun accessory or costume can make for some great photographs that will add an extra personal touch to your family portraits.

Having a plan for what everyone should wear and bringing along any props you may need will ensure that your photoshoot runs smoothly and produces beautiful results.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Best Time Of Day To Take Family Photos?

When it comes to capturing the perfect family portrait, timing is everything.

As a professional photographer, I can attest that the best time of day to take photos is during the golden hour - when the sun is low in the sky and casts a warm, soft light over your subjects.

This natural light creates beautiful shadows and an ethereal feel that will give your family portraits an extra special touch.

Regardless of where you are taking your photos, this magical hour will create captivating results that you'll cherish for years to come.

What Type Of Clothing Should Be Worn For Family Portraits?

When planning a family portrait, clothing choices should be carefully considered.

It's best to opt for coordinated but not matching outfits in coordinating colors.

To ensure the focus is on the family unit, choose classic styles that don't draw attention away from your faces and expressions.

If you're having trouble deciding what to wear, consider consulting with your photographer for advice.

They can provide helpful tips to create timeless images that you can cherish forever.

What Type Of Camera Equipment Is Recommended For Family Photos?

Achieving a perfect family portrait requires the right camera equipment.

A smart photographer will know that the right tools make all the difference in producing a captivating shot, and so it's important to be prepared with the right gear.

An anachronism would be an old-fashioned camera, but modern photography requires more than just that - think high-power lenses and lighting options to get the most out of any family photo session.

Quality cameras and lenses are essential for capturing those precious moments, and any good photographer will know exactly which pieces of equipment are necessary for getting a picture perfect portrait.

How Can I Edit My Family Photos For The Best Results?

Editing family photos for the best results is an important part of the photography process.

As a professional photographer, I recommend using high-quality editing software to make sure your photos look their best.

This includes adjusting color and contrast, cropping or straightening images, and making sure any blemishes or distractions are removed.

With the right tools and techniques, you can easily create stunning family portraits that will be cherished for years to come.

How Much Does It Typically Cost To Hire A Professional Photographer For A Family Portrait?

Hiring a professional photographer to capture a family portrait can be an investment, but it is one that pays off in the long run.

The cost of having a skilled photographer create beautiful and timeless memories depends on factors such as their experience, the number of photos taken, and the location of the shoot.

Generally speaking, prices for family portraits can range from $4000 - $6000 depending on those factors; however, these prices may fluctuate based on the photographer's services.

With an experienced professional by your side, you can rest assured that your family portrait will be cherished for many years to come.

Conclusion

The family portrait is an opportunity to capture a moment in time that will be remembered for years to come. It's a matter of finding the perfect light, the right poses and the best setting to create a timeless image.

With some careful planning and consideration, you can ensure that your family's portrait will be picture perfect.

When the shutter clicks, it captures more than just physical appearance. It captures personality, emotion and connection between those in the frame - all of which can be used as symbols to tell a story about your family.

A genuine smile or tender embrace speaks volumes about the bond between loved ones and sparks an emotional response that lasts long after the photo session has ended.

It's not just about taking pictures; it's about creating memories that will last forever. So take your time planning out your family portrait and don’t forget to have fun with it!

With patience and attention to detail, you’ll end up with a beautiful collection of photographs that will be treasured for generations to come.

Christmas Family Portrait Ideas


Christmas is a time for family and friends to get together and celebrate. But what better way to commemorate the holiday than with a family portrait? Here is a list of ideas for you to consider when planning your family portrait shoot this Christmas. From posing in front of the Christmas tree to dressing up in holiday.

christmas photo

1. In Front Of The Christmas Tree

There's no better way to capture family memories during the Christmas season than by taking photos in front of a beautiful Christmas tree. Whether you choose to take your photos at home or at a local Christmas market, a festive tree is sure to make for great pictures.

Additionally, Santa's Grotto is a must-see during the holiday season for kids (and adults!). This fun and interactive stop features Santa, toy shops, and special treats for children. And of course, there's always ice skating – an activity that can be enjoyed by all ages.

Finally, sledding is another winter activity that can be enjoyed by everyone. If you're looking to get some exercise while having fun, sledding is the perfect choice! And if you're feeling extra festive, playing in the snow can add an extra level of joy to your day. Whether it's spending time with family or friends or finding unique gifts at the local Christmas market, there are plenty of ways to have a merry Christmastime this year!

2. Matching Outfits

Christmas is coming, and that means family portraits! Whether you have a large or small family, there are sure to be plenty of outfits to choose from. However, it can be tough to pick just one outfit to wear for the family portrait. That's where our blog comes in! We've gathered five different outfits that can be worn for a Christmas family portrait and listed them below.

Wearing All Red: This classic outfit is perfect for those who love all things red. Wearing bright red will standout against any other colors in the photo, making it an ideal choice for those who want a strong statement.

Wearing All Green: This outfit is perfect for those who love green. From the tips of your shoes to your scarf, everything about this outfit will stand out and make an impression. Plus, green makes great background colors on photos – so you'll have plenty of options when it comes to setting the scene.

Wearing All White: A classic choice for any family portrait, this outfit is perfect for those who want a simple yet elegant photograph. Wearing white will give your portraits a timeless feel that will last long after Christmas has come and gone.

Wearing Plaid: For those who want something more unique than just plain old clothes, consider wearing plaid instead of just one color. With different shades of blue throughout the plaid fabric, this outfit will look great in any photo taken during Christmas season.

Wearing All Denim: For a more casual feel during Christmas time, consider wearing some jeans instead of traditional clothing items like dresses or skirts. Waining denim gives off a casual but stylish vibe that stands out among other families dressed up for Christmas portraits.

3. With Santa Claus

Christmas is just around the corner, and what better way to get into the holiday spirit than by taking a family portrait with Santa Claus? Santa is a fun option for kids who still believe in him. If your child is skeptical of Christmas, having Santa in your family portrait can help to change their mind. Not only will they have a great picture to commemorate the occasion, but they'll also get into the holiday spirit.

To get the best photos with Santa, make sure you plan ahead. Make sure to set up a good location and have all of your equipment ready. And don't forget to get a picture of the whole family with Santa! This may be the most memorable photo from your Christmas celebration.

Children Posing With Santa Claus Is A Common Christmas Tradition

Christmas is a time when families come together to celebrate. For many, one of the traditions that they look forward to is capturing a family portrait with Santa Claus. Whether you're a child who loves getting posed with Santa, or you're an adult who wants to capture the excitement of Christmas, there are plenty of portrait ideas that you can try.

When it comes to posing your family with Santa, don't be afraid to get creative. You can have your children stand in different poses or even have them sit on his lap while he holds a present for them. And if you want to take the photo outdoors in festive fashion, nothing beats having Santa pose beside a Christmas tree!

Once you've taken your family portrait with Santa Claus, make sure to save it and cherish it for years to come. These photos will be cherished memories of your favorite holiday season and will bring joy every time you look at them. Merry Christmas!

4. Holiday Pajamas

Christmas is a time for family, fun, and celebration. What better way to get into the spirit of things than by dressing up in festive pajamas? There are a variety of styles and colors to choose from, so you can find something that perfectly matches your personality and style. And if you want to go all out, you can even find matching pajamas for the whole family!

Whether you're looking for something comfortable and stylish to wear around the house or something special to wear for photos or parties, holiday pajamas are a great way to get into the holiday spirit. They're also a great way to relax after a long day of shopping or cooking. So why not put on some pajamas and enjoy some Christmas cheer this year?

Family Portraits During The Christmas Season

Christmas is quickly approaching, and it's the perfect time to capture family portraits during the festive season. There are a number of great options for taking family portraits during the Christmas season, and we've outlined each one below.

First, if you're looking for a local Christmas tree farm, this is a great option. Not only will you be able to find the perfect tree, but you'll also have the chance to get in the holiday spirit. Have your photographer shoot some festive shots around your tree farm before capturing family portraits under the trees.

If you'd rather take control of your photo shoot, that's no problem either! With some creative direction from you and some well-timed shots, even an inexperienced photographer can create stunning images that will capture memories forever. Shoot candid shots of your loved ones while they're enjoying themselves – this type of photo session is sure to create laughs and good times for years to come.

Last but not least is capturing Christmas at its most magical – in all its snowy glory. If this isn't your cup of tea, there are other options available such as shooting under a snowy setting or having a professional photographer take pictures outside in winter Wonderland settings (complete with reindeer!). This might just become your new family tradition!

10 Creative Ideas For Fall Family Photos That Aren’t Basic

The leaves are changing colours atop the trees. The smell of pumpkin spice is in the air. Fall is here, and it’s the perfect opportunity to wrangle the crew and get outside for beautiful fall family photos

If there are young children in the family, getting everyone organized and on the same page at the same time is your first obstacle. Your next obstacle is making sure your fall family photos are original, representative of your family, and worthy of hanging on the wall year-round. Make your family photo shoot about your family and your family’s interests, not the colours of the season. Fall comes every year, but if you have children, it’s their ever-changing looks you’ll want to capture, not just the change of season.

Done right, seasonal photos can become timeless treasures to share for years to come. LittleThings has put together 10 creative ideas for your family’s fall photos that will help your photos stand out from the rest.

fall portrait idea 1

1. Bring in the Props

Props add a special something to a photo. Pumpkins and haystacks are the obvious fall choice for props, but think outside of the box. Do your kids play a certain sport? Break out the sports gear for the photo shoot. Does your family love to watch movies together? Think of a film theme. 

Two props that are universal to memorable photos are signs and balloons. Write your family’s name or a cute and funny quote on a decorative chalkboard sign and hold it up as a family in your photo. Balloons are also a fun, colourful, and simple addition to help liven up family photos. You don’t need to overdo the props, and you don’t need to stick to a fall colour scheme. Have fun with it!

fall portrait idea 2

2. Be Natural and Have Fun

I don’t know about you, but my kids don’t exactly sit still on a neatly laid blanket in an open field, all while smiling and directly facing forward. Sure, it all makes for a perfect photo, but families aren’t perfect. No two families are alike, and their pictures shouldn’t be either.

Walk, dance, play, interact, and have fun with each other. You want the photos to be representative of your family and all of the personalities in it. Stiff, traditional poses are common for a reason, but natural scenarios end up being the best shots deserving of a spot on the living room wall.

3. Switch Up the Angle

Your professional photographer is more open to your direction than you might think. When you talk to your photographer about your photo shoot, mention that you want to buck the tradition of straight-on photos. Get creative with it. 

Eye-level angles make for a more intimate point of view. High-angle shots can include more of the beautiful outdoor fall scenery in your shot. There's also titled angles and long shots for an edgier perspective. It's all about what's fitting for your family.

fall portrait idea 3

4. Add an Action Shot

Action shots aren't just reserved for sports photography. If your kids are hardly sitting still, take advantage of that and get a cool shot in motion. Make sure your photographer has plenty of advanced notice that you want action shots. They require lots of camera memory and a photographer willing to capture them — and possibly with some experience in doing so.

Family photo shoots are tiring enough as it is, so don't feel the need to spend the whole session in motion. Just welcome the opportunity to get in a few good ones.

fall portrait idea 4

5. Match Outfits, If You Must, but Be Unique

Matching outfits are the epitome of the fall family photo shoot and family photo shoots in general. The white shirt and khakis are starting to become more like a family uniform, unfortunately. Sure, coordinating colours and matching outfits help ensure the photo looks put together, but it’s time to rethink this tradition.

Instead of the uniform white shirt and matching khakis or jeans, get colourful. Wear floral headwear, matching patterns, or even graphic shirts.

fall portrait idea 5

6. Don’t Match At All

Skip matching altogether and simply wear what looks good. Instead of matching outfits, you might focus on things like your home decor. Where's the best place for this photo to live on the wall? Now coordinate the decor and colour scheme to fit, not match, the outfits you wear.

7. Head Into the City

It's fall, and the trees are beautiful, and the weather is crisp. The natural lighting in the fall is also usually pretty amazing. Why not be outdoors? That doesn't mean that you have to be in the grass and in the leaves. For a totally different type of fall photo, head into the city. The concrete, the buildings, and the people make underrated backdrops where the focus is still on your family.

8. Don't Forget the Family Pet

Our pets are a part of the family. They love the outdoors. Bring them along, and let their playful nature lighten the mood of the family photo shoot. If they'll agree to wear a bow or a bow tie, bonus!

9. Embrace Fall at a Rustic Location

When you think fallen leaves, haystacks, and pumpkins, you think fall. They're seasonal. Your family photos are meant to be timeless. The rustic theme, however, looks good year-round. Cabins and barns make great rustic locations for photos. Rugged benches, such as the ones often found in forest preserves, will work too.

fall portrait idea 6

10. Vary the Background

Play with shapes and lines by moving some family members to the background and some to the front. Shortest to tallest is an easy way to decide, but arrange a few shots where the parents get to shine in the front, too.

fall portrait idea 7

Moving the setting to a beautiful wide-open space is another way to vary the background — if you're lucky enough to live close to one. Don't worry that it will take the focus off your beautiful family. A good photographer knows just how to capture the beauty of the landscape while emphasizing the love between the subjects at the focal point.

5 Tips for Taking Family Photos in the Summer

After almost a decade as a family photographer, I have seen it all from epic meltdowns to picture-perfect dream sessions! Follow these 5 tips for taking summer family photos to make things a bit easier!

summer family photo 1

5 Tips for Taking Summer Family Photos

I know first hand how overwhelming taking family photos can be with little ones in tow.  But it doesn’t have to be! Here are a few tips I’ve learned along away to help make the summer photo session more fun and relaxed!

Tip #1: Dress Cool

The first of the 5 tips for taking summer family photos might be the most important!

While layers can be so cute, we all know the summer heat is absolutely brutal. Mommas, try a flowing dress like this!

summer family photo 2

Short sleeves or rolled up sleeves for dad is great!

summer family photo 3

Taking photos in the summer is the best excuse to put the girls in beautiful, light summer dresses and sandals!

summer family photo 4

Shorts and short sleeves for the boys is perfect!

summer family photo 5

There is nothing worse than feeling so uncomfortable in the heat so try your best to find something light, comfy and cute!

Tip #2: Plan out the color scheme

My second tip for taking family photos in the summer is to really think through your outfit colors.

Think about where you want to display the photos. If you have a neutral vibe with the photos, they will look good in every room! If you have a navy and gray living room and know you want to display the photos there, consider incorporating navy into your photos to match!

summer family photo 6

Taking photos in the fall?  Check out our fall outfit inspiration here!

Tip #3: Timing is everything!

I never fully understood the importance of a mini session until having kids. Now I totally get it!

Try doing a mini-session, 20 minutes or less, to keep the meltdowns at bay. Your little ones will have a better chance of holding it together for 10 – 20 minutes. Especially in the summer heat, you’ll be glad you did a shorter session.

Another important tip for taking summer family photos is to consider doing the session in the morning or late afternoon!

With the sun setting around 7 pm or later during the summer, you might find yourself trying to do photos during prime “witching hour” if you do an evening session.

Tip #4: Arrive early, fed & happy

My fourth tip for taking summer family photos is to make sure to arrive early for your photo session! Corralling your family in your Sunday’s best is tough enough so don’t add the stress of being late. Give yourself a 30-minute buffer if you have to! Do whatever it takes to arrive early so you don’t add on the stress of being late and missing time during your session.

Also, you’ll want to eat ahead of time! Nothing is worse than a hungry toddler … or husband! Am I right?! Make sure everyone is happy and fed so that all you have to do is play and love on each other during the session!

I know not everyone is for bribes during sessions but fruit gummies really are the only thing that gives us a fighting chance with our toddler. If you know there is something that will motivate your little one, bring it!

summer family photo 7

Tip #5: Don’t sweat the small stuff

I mean this quite literally! We all know it can get quite sweaty in Hong Kong but don’t worry about it. Dab it if you can and move on! It most likely won’t show up in your photos.

Also, don’t worry about the small stuff! Relax, have fun, and just embrace your crazy life! I know my life with two little ones right now is ridiculous! 9 times out of 10 they are screaming in the photos we try to take off one of them with my big camera. For real, we took our Easter photos with us smiling and Kayla in the background screaming! It was hilarious. I could get frustrated but I know it’s just life right now! She won’t be like this forever! I just try my best to distract her and have fun.  Eventually, she warms up and we at least get a couple!

Also, kids tend to feed off of your energy. If you are rushed and stressed, it could affect them more than you think. Odds are that if you are calm and having fun, they will too!

I hope these 5 tips for taking summer family photos help make your session a total success! You got this!

Cheering for you always!

So much love from our family to yours!

Best Tips For Parents To Take Family Photos

Working as a pro photographer has taught me many things in my career and one thing that I get asked the most from my clients, especially parents, is what tips I have for parents to help them take family photos themselves that turn out ok. Because of this, I've decided to create this ultimate family portrait guide on how parents, like yourself, can take stunning family photos that you can be proud to hang on the wall. Let's get started.

Family Photo 101: Best Advice For Taking Family Photos

      1. Understanding Your Camera Features Better

Almost everyone has a camera, but I believe not everyone knows the features their camera holds and how these functions can help improve your photos when used correctly.  So, take the time to learn about your camera and its features. Take practice shots to get a feel of it and to figure out what each setting can do.

You'll be thankful you did. Remember, the last thing you want is to miss out on the perfect shot because you were too busy learning about your camera right there and then. You should know the difference between the shutter speed and aperture.

      2. It's Alright to Use Your Camera Settings

I'll admit not everyone will be able to memorise what each setting does. It's why cameras also come with the P mode with automatic settings. P stands for Programmed Automatic. You don't have to feel bad about it. In fact, using it can help you learn more about your camera especially if you're a newbie to a DLSR. However, you're not completely on autopilot as you still have control over the following features.

      3. The Light is Your Best Friend

Light is what will make or break your shot. Moreover, don't depend on the flash to give you the light you need. My advice to you is to use natural sunlight unless you can afford to purchase a pro lighting equipment.

      4. Keep the Atmosphere Light

In my experience, children aren't happy when they're forced to do something. Moreover, it shows on their faces. Regardless of how big their smiles might be. So, in as much as you want to take a great family photo, my advice is to keep the shoot casual and stress-free.

      5. Have Fun and Be Creative

In my opinion, the best family photos happen when you're having fun. As a result, the images are natural and happy. No one has that pained look on their faces. In fact, I've done a lot of shoots wherein families break tradition and get creative.

Conclusion

Photos are a great way to record your family's life. In my experience, the fun is what makes them extra special when you recall the exact moment you captured each one. So, I’m certain you'll be prouder to show them off to everyone. Are you ready to take great family photos?

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