
It’s nearly impossible to capture the perfect photo in camera, especially when you have to wrangle multiple models. You don’t want to run out of space, and you never know what images are great until you start editing.Įdit photos to get the exact look you want. You can snap countless candid images when everyone is running around and enjoying themselves, so be sure to pack backup storage cards for your camera. If you need help choosing color palettes, check out resources on Behance for some ideas, and ask your clients what their favorite colors are.īring extra storage cards for your camera.ĭigital tools are crucial for great family photos. You don’t want everyone to wear bright, clashing colors, but you also don’t want everyone to blend together in the same shade of blue. So instead, I like to talk color schemes and suggest some clothing ideas,” says Vega. But to me, that just makes everyone blend together. “Some people think that everyone has to come in the same color of clothes, too. It may seem like a fun idea to put everyone in matching outfits, but it can be tricky, especially for a large family. You don’t want anyone to be underlit, so make sure you have a good key light and the equipment to get the effects you’re looking for. If you’re taking photos inside, bring some extra lights or reflectors to bounce light. Consider photoshoots during golden hour to get the best results, and avoid photos in bright midday sun. If you’re outdoors, the time of day you shoot will be crucial. Your location will heavily impact the choices you make when it comes to lighting. Plan where you’ll take the photos, the angles you’ll most likely use, and talk about what else in their house will be visible in the shot. If you shoot inside someone’s house, be sure you know the setup of the space before the day of the photoshoot. Make sure everyone is happy and excited about the location before you get started. So if my clients have small children, then I don’t recommend shooting in the desert, because I don’t want the kids to get hurt,” explains photographer Jacqueline Vega. I live in New Mexico, and that means a lot of cactus. “I always take the kids’ ages into consideration when looking for a location. But remember, always keep your subjects’ needs in mind when you suggest locations. If you take pictures in spring, check out places with lots of blooming wildflowers. If you take photos in autumn, consider locations with lots of brightly colored leaves to create a beautiful fall family photo. Be sure to keep the time of year in mind as well when you choose a location. Whether it’s a national park, a public garden, or a golf course, convenient places to take great outdoor photos are all around. If you look for outdoor family photo ideas, consider scenic areas close to you. Plus, get lots of information up front to help ensure everyone is happy with the portraits and knows what to expect. The answers to these questions will influence the artistic choices you make when you plan and take the photos.

Are they looking for staged photos, or something more candid? How many kids do they have, and what are their ages? Do they want to take the photos outside or do they plan on doing it at their own house where the kiddos are more comfortable? Just like with a portrait or headshot, communicate with family members about their vision. If you talk to family members about what they want, think ahead about location and lighting, and choose a color scheme in advance, you’ll be set up for success. The key to a good shoot comes down to planning. The pictures that make it on the Christmas card, or get hung in picture frames in the living room, are ones that were enjoyable to make and that highlight natural moments. “Great family photos are all about capturing the authentic family dynamic,” says photographer Jenn Byrne.


But family photography is a unique way to capture special moments between people and bring an entire family together. So working with a group of people, especially if some of them are children, can stretch the skills of even the most seasoned photographers.

Working with one subject to create a stunning portrait can be challenging.
