Five Things Needed to Take Great Family Portraits

Guest Post

A camera that costs as much as a used car is needed by professionals who plan on blowing up photos to billboard size, but an average point-and-shoot camera has more than enough pixel resolution for family portraits. Since most families already own a decent snapshot camera, the remaining things needed are quite simple.

1. Good Outdoor Lighting is Essential for Great Family Photos

The popup flash on cameras is unsuitable. They cause harsh shadows and contrast. The real secret of professionals is the golden hour. It is the time about an hour after sunrise or about an hour before sunset when the sun is low in the sky. The light leans more toward golden yellow colors. Midday light casts hard shadows on faces unless it is overcast.

2. Appropriate Backgrounds are a Key Element

Nothing is worse than tree limbs sticking out of family members’ heads or other clutter in the background of a photo. This is a key element that separates amateurs from professionals. Pick a simple background that does not clash or overwhelm the subjects. Use the aperture priority mode in the camera to shoot with a wider aperture. Smaller numbers equal bigger lens openings. This blurs out backgrounds.

3. Coordinated Clothing Beats Matching Clothing

Unless it is plain solid color shirts, nothing is worse than attempting to match when it comes to wardrobe. Even if the style of clothing family members wear is glaringly different from one another, it still looks better in portraits. Matching holiday outfits are probably the worst idea ever thought up. Deciding that everyone wears a tee shirt or solid color button down shirt is okay, but do not go the identical twin route when it comes to wardrobe.

4. Keep Focus on the Eyes

Focusing on the eyes is a trick pros know well. All cameras have a limited ability for focal depth. Using wider apertures to blur out backgrounds may cause people in a second row to be out of focus. Keep everyone on an even horizontal line. Focus on the eyes of the middle subject for the group shot. It is the best way of capturing a family portrait that everyone enjoys.

5. Use a Tripod

Buy an inexpensive tripod to frame the shot so the family member taking the photos can be in the portrait as well. Most digital cameras come with a timer to automatically trigger the shutter. The 10 second timer gives plenty of time to get in the shot.

Finally, take plenty of pictures of each pose. Digital shots are not wasting film, so go ahead and fill up that memory card. Inevitably, someone will be blinking or looking away. Taking several shots for each pose helps to guarantee success. Above all, make it fun. After your photos are done, consider turning them into family photo calendars or other personalized gifts to give this holiday season!