The key to taking genuine and authentic family photos is knowing how to pose in front of the camera.
If you’ve never taken professional family photos before or if you simply want to improve on your last session, here is some advice on how to pose that will leave you with exceptional images.
A lot of families have no idea how to pose and be natural in front of a camera, and that's totally ok! I have been doing this for years, and my job is to tell you exactly what to do! I promise to not leave you hanging! I will be giving you giving great direction the whole time and having fun, so the photos are authentic and real!! Here are some great tips to think about as you prepare!!
Get Close
The last thing you want is a family portrait that looks stiff and awkward! The secret to creating a beautiful, intimate family photo is to get close. I often laugh as I tell my clients, "No really, closer!!" Snuggle up with the people you love if you want the best photos. If there are people of varying heights in the photo, I will often take a few photos on the same level so that you can get your heads close together too.
Have Fun
Your photos always look more authentic when your family is genuinely having fun and laughing. Spend time talking about your favorite vacation or a memory that makes you all laugh out loud. These candid moments always make for the best photos. I often will ask funny questions or do silly things to make your kiddos laugh! Beforehand, it is helpful if you have thought about the things that make your kids laugh, maybe a silly voice you do, a way you tickle them, you know your child the best! And of course, I am always there to help it along and have fun with you!!
Keep it Natural
When you overthink posing, it takes away from the genuineness of your photos, which is why it helps to shoot your family photos in a setting where you’re all comfortable and where you can go about your lives as naturally as possible. For example, if you’re in an outdoor setting, take your little one for a walk. If you’re shooting at home, bake something together or snuggle up for a story. I really enjoy helping your family get both posed and candid!!
Use Your Surroundings
Very often, standing upright in the middle of a room or garden will make your photos look and feel stiff. Use your surroundings to make yourselves more comfortable. For example, if there’s a wall in the vicinity, lean up against it. If there’s a couch available, pose on that for a few shots. When we are out on a session, I will make sure we have a variety of fun places to take photos, so you have a lot of variation in your photos, and also great spots that I know from experience look amazing once edited!!
Make Use of Props
If you would like to change things up a bit or give a younger child something to do, you can also always incorporate a few basic props into your photos to get a few non-standard shots. I can always suggest props that work well for sessions!
If you still have questions about your shoot and how to make the most of it, let me know and I will be happy to help you out! I am here to make your sessions fun, easy, and something that you remember and smile about!!
Love,
Kate