A Guide to Posing for Your Family Photos
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.
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. Snuggle up with the people you love if you want the
best photos. If there are people of varying heights in the photo, 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.
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.
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.
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.
If you still have questions about your shoot and how to make the most of it, let us know and we will
be happy to assist you with additional tips.
FAQ
How can I ensure that my family photos reflect our unique personalities and relationships beyond just physical poses?
A. To ensure that your family photos truly capture the essence of your relationships and personalities, consider incorporating meaningful activities or interactions into the shoot. Instead of solely focusing on physical poses, try engaging in activities that reflect your family's dynamics and shared interests. This could involve playing games, sharing stories, or participating in activities that evoke genuine emotions and connections.
Are there specific techniques or guidance for posing families with members who may have mobility issues or disabilities?
A. When posing families with members who may have mobility issues or disabilities, it's essential to prioritize their comfort and inclusion. Consider adapting poses or activities to accommodate their needs, such as providing seating options or adjusting the pace of the shoot to allow for breaks. Additionally, communicate openly with your photographer about any specific concerns or accommodations that may be necessary to ensure a positive and inclusive experience for everyone involved.
Can you provide advice on coordinating outfits or styling choices to enhance the overall look and feel of our family photoshoot?
A. Coordinating outfits and styling choices can significantly impact the overall look and feel of your family photoshoot. To create cohesive and visually appealing images, consider choosing outfits that complement each other in terms of color scheme, style, and level of formality. Opt for clothing that reflects your family's personality and the desired aesthetic of the shoot, whether it's casual and relaxed or more formal and polished. Additionally, pay attention to details such as accessories, hairstyles, and grooming to ensure a polished and coordinated appearance for everyone in the family.
