Tips for Taking the Best Family Pictures

Taking family pictures together can be stressful, since everyone wants to look and feel their best in front of the camera. Here are some tips for having the best family pictures taken, including ways to take the stress out of taking these photos and posing ideas that will help you get the most flattering shots possible.

Have fun!
Don’t forget to have fun! After all, you’re creating memories here; aim to take photos that encapsulate your family’s personality and interests. While there are many different kinds of photography, remember that in family photography, a bit of goofiness can go a long way. Family pictures can and should be playful—think Candid Camera and set up some funny scenarios. You don’t want everyone looking stuffy. As much as possible, let natural interactions happen (and also bring some props). From smiles to tears, family photography captures it all. Bring out everybody’s inner artist by having them use their creative imagination while taking family pictures at home or outdoors. Show off your hobby and passion when choosing backgrounds—in fact, seek them out when composing shots!

Choose simple outfits
When planning your wardrobe, keep in mind that you want to look natural in your family photos. Stay away from patterns and accessories that are too distracting. Simplicity is key when it comes to creating an authentic portrait of your family, and a lot of modern families want their pictures to be as casual as possible. If you’re trying to capture real emotion, then aim for simple clothing options.

Pre-planning is key
Start thinking about family pictures at least a month before you want to take them. Also be sure to give your photographer some advance notice—they probably book up fast around major holidays (Thanksgiving and Christmas are always a great idea).

Put them at ease
We’ve all been there—staring at a camera lens and unsure of what to do. Kids will feel more comfortable in front of a camera if they feel as though they have some say in how their photos turn out. Ask them questions about what kind of pictures they’d like to see, or show them some professional shots and ask which ones are their favorites. Once you get started, don’t stop until you have dozens of good photos that capture your kids naturally being themselves.

Prepare everyone ahead of time
As you prepare to have your family photos taken, make sure everyone is on board and ready. Have kids wear something they love so they’ll feel good, even if it’s not what you pictured. And parents? Groom yourselves as much as possible so you look (and feel) your best. Getting dressed up and having fun will help everyone stay in a good mood on picture day, ensuring you get great pictures that really capture who you are.

Don’t be afraid to use props

The closer, the better
When it comes to taking family photos, there’s no such thing as a perfect setting or background. But there is such a thing as getting closer to your subjects, including your family. When you move in close to get just one person’s face in focus (or even just one eye) you create an image that really draws viewers in and makes them look at details like eyes, lips and hair.