subject: Family Portraits Photography [print this page] You walk into a friend's living room and your eyes are drawn to a happy family portrait over the mantel. The Family Portrait Picture is light-filled; the family is smiling and well groomed, and their individual personalities are shining through the portrait. How about having a family portrait of your own?
Many people probably think that Family Portraits Photography involves getting all people together, making them smile and taking the perfect shot. Wrong idea! You will know how difficult making an excellent family picture is, once you attempt the task.
A great family portrait does not have to be static. Photograph members of the family involved in common activities. Try to find the little things that will make your picture unique.
Refrain from creating a picture scenario or theme. Most people will have problems with acting while being photographed. Such pictures could end up looking fake and amateurish. Take several test shots until all people get used to the procedure. As you continue shooting, they will feel more relaxed and will start acting naturally. This is when you can start making your real photographs.
Get family members to dress casually and plainly. Having many people wearing overly colourful outfits will ruin the overall feel of the picture.
When children are involved the task becomes even more difficult. The reactions of youngsters could be unpredictable and you do not want a crying little one in the otherwise great family picture. Get children in the right mood before you start taking pictures- try to make sure little ones have napped or eaten before the session. They should be happy, smiling and playful, but we know that this is not always the case.
Great backgrounds for a Family Portrait Picture range from a simple room to a beautiful green meadow. The background should be uniform and unobtrusive so that it compliments the photograph rather than diverting attention away from the family being shot.
If you are shooting an Outdoor Family Photography, select a warm, sunny day. Light is best for such pictures in the early morning or late afternoon/evening. Refrain from shooting on a rainy day or when the sunlight is too intense. You will have more flexibility if shooting indoors but do several test shots experimenting with different light settings before you get the session started.
