The ability to capture a family's photos is among the most treasured things that anyone could do. It freezes time , and lets us revisit those memories again and again. But it's not always easy to get great family photos even when you don't have a lot of experience behind the camera.
We turned to Dubai family photographer Alona Koenig to get her tips for creating great family pictures. Alona has been photographing families for a long time, and has experienced in making sure everyone is at ease and comfortable when it comes to taking photos.
Here are some of Alona's top suggestions for taking great family photos:
Choose the right time of day
The ideal time to take family photos is in the morning or later in the afternoon in the afternoon, when the lighting is warm and soft. Do not take pictures in the middle of the day 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 good time of day when you can think about shooting (and the reason why):
Golden hour
This is the hour just before sunset, in which the sunlight is warm and golden. It's a great time for snapping photos that have an "glow" to them.
Blue hour
This is the hour right after sunset in which the sky is still light but has turned a deep blue shade. Blue hour is a wonderful time for taking atmospheric pictures that are full of mood.
Twilight
This is the time between sunset and evening, where there isn't much light. The time of sunset is ideal for taking creative photos with long exposures, or with an flashes that are not on the camera.
Find the correct place
The place you select for the family photo shoot will influence the overall feel of the pictures. If you're looking to capture the feeling of a relaxed weekend at home, select the location that's cozy as well as familiar for your loved ones. If you're looking to capture the experience of an adventure or vacation select a spot that's exciting and new. If you're looking to capture a specific atmosphere or emotion, pick an area that is able to evoke the emotion.
Some great locations to take family photos are:
The beach
A park or garden
An urban setting
A nature reserve
Your backyard is yours
Get everyone involved
One best way to ensure that everyone has a great time during your photo session is to get everyone involved. Have your family members assist with things such as choosing the location, picking out outfits, and even posing for photographs. This will help them be more involved in the shoot, and help make the experience more enjoyable for everyone.
Here are some ways you can involve everyone:
Let everyone choose their own clothes. This will make them feel more comfortable and stylish in front of the camera.
If you're shooting outdoors, ask your family members to assist in choosing the best location for the camera or selecting the ideal way to take.
Make sure everyone strikes a pose. Posing can be a great way to get everyone to take a break and check here relax with the photo shoot.
Break the ice
If your family is feeling shy or awkward when it comes to taking pictures Try breaking the ice with some jokes or funny faces. This can help them relax and feel more comfortable when they are in front of the camera.
You can also try playing certain games or participating in activities that can make everyone laugh and interact with one another. This will help you record candid and natural moments that will be cherished for the years to come.
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 your camera's settings or test new poses. This is a great method to give personality to your pictures and make them stand out.
You can play around with include:
Camera settings: play with the shutter speed, aperture, and ISO to make different effects.
Lens choices: try using either a wide-angle or zoom lens to alter the perspective of your photos.
Posing: explore different ways to arrange your family members or have them interact in creative ways.
Props: add some excitement to your photos with props like umbrellas, balloons, or signs.
Prepare yourself
The key to success in a photo shoot is being prepared. Be sure to have everything you require before the date of your shoot, so you can focus on taking amazing photos.
Things you'll need to take along include:
Your camera and 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 doing an outfit change)
Kit for first aid (just in case)
snacks and drinks (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.
A key aspects to remember when you're taking family pictures is to be patient. This isn't any kind of race, therefore there's no need to hurry.
Set up your camera in a thoughtful manner for each shot, and then take the number of photos you'll need to achieve the best picture. And if someone isn't cooperating or if something goes wrong do not worry, there's always a second chance.
The most important thing is to take your time and have fun with the process. In the end, these pictures are intended to preserve a moment which you as a family will cherish for years to come.
Final Thoughts
Photographing family photos can be lots of enjoyable however, they can also be a bit challenging. By following these tips, you'll be able to make the most of your shoot and capture some stunning memories that be cherished for the rest of your life.
Alona Koenig works as a Dubai family photographer who specializes more info in taking candid moments and interactions that are natural. Alona has been photographing families for more than 10 years, and she enjoys documenting the special bonds between parents and children. Visit her website for her portfolio, or call her to arrange a photo session.