There are many types of families, extended, single-parent, homo-parent, nuclear, assembled . . . but they all have something in common, the relationship between their members. Family portraits are more complex than individual portraits for different reasons, they are several subjects, they need to be coordinated and it is also important to reflect their personality and dynamics and the interaction between all their members, it is likely that you have already had to take a portrait (always They ask us when they know we like photography) or that sooner or later you find yourself in this situation. There are some very typical errors in these types of photographs that are very easy to correct, others are a bit more complicated, but fear not, it is not that bad. Are you interested in the subject, keep reading this post in which I offer you some tips to get great family photos, whether they are yours or not?
1. Take care of the closet. This first tip may seem minor, but it is not. Clothing plays a fundamental role for several reasons.
- 2.
- Find a suitable location.
- If you are going to interact with the family.
- Look for a place they like.
- A park.
- The forest.
- The beach? They are very grateful environments for this type of photography.
- If it is indoors or in a house.
- Take care of the background and anything that distracts attention.
3. Create an appropriate environment. It is important that they enjoy the session so that they are comfortable and relaxed, so that they are much better represented and you can take the time you need. Prepare the session as if it were a game, especially if there are children. ask them to smile, tell them something funny, an anecdote or a joke, forced smiles are too artificial.
4. Take care of the lighting. That is one of the most important points, but I am afraid it will not scare you, will it? We will also develop a little more here.
5. Take care of the placement. Avoid taking uncomfortable or forced postures, if you find it natural the results will be much better. If there are many members, something like a door, fence or staircase can help organize the composition.
6. Use a suitable opening. In portraits, an aperture as large as possible is generally recommended (i. e. a small f-number), but in this case, it is advisable not to open the aperture too wide, an f / 8 would be more appropriate. If you want to use a large aperture , make sure all members are on the same plane so that they are all sharp. If the group is very large, a small aperture (plus f-number) is recommended.
7. Try to convey the essence of family. We commented at the beginning of the article about the importance of capturing not only family members but also their personalities. You can use accessories or items that they normally wear. The important thing is not that all the members are looking at the camera, what is really important here is that the family nucleus is shown as it is.
8. Get a good frame. Remember the composition tips and be careful not to cut the heads or leave them in the middle of the photo. And if it’s full length, don’t cut off their feet! ?
9. Shoot in bursts and multiple times. When there are multiple members, it’s very easy for someone to come out with their eyes closed or with an unflattering gesture. The more you shoot your photos, the more likely you are to get one that works with most models.
10. Be flexible. You most likely have an idea of how to shoot, that’s fine, but don’t forget to pay attention to those spontaneous moments because one of the best shots can be one of those improvisational moments.
11. Once again, use your creativity. Run away from the typical portraits and propose something fun, a game, a career, or just change your perspective? You know, the imagination has no limits!
12. Use the tripod. That you are part of this great family group that you have to represent?So don’t forget the tripod of the world!Set the timer or use the trigger remotely and look at the birdie!
13. Capture emotions. I leave my favorite advice for the end, because emotions are important because a photo has to provoke a feeling in you and there is nothing better than capturing an emotional moment apart from flattering poses or gestures. Interaction between its members and displays of affection cannot be lacking in a family portrait.
And so far today’s post, I hope this has helped you and now you see it a little easier to portray a family or your own. I hope I haven’t left anything, but if you have any questions, leave your comment. Thank you very much for going all the way and, if you liked it, share it ;). I’ll see you soon!