Photographing families, especially young families, can sometimes make even the most seasoned photographer break out in a sweat (literally and figuratively!).
From start to finish, there is a wide range of special considerations and unique challenges that must be accounted for when photographing such a diverse group of subjects.
By incorporating the five following tips in your family sessions, you will be well on your way to creating gorgeous imagery that will be treasured heirlooms for generations to come!
1. Do “boring” first.
Wherever there is a family session happening, there is a grandparent somewhere in the world just waiting to get their hands on an 8×10 image that screams “everyone stand here and say cheese!”
These static, stagnant images are easiest to capture at the beginning of the session when everyone is feeling fresh and happy. Seize the moment and get these images out of the way at the beginning!
2. “Criss-cross apple sauce” wasn’t created by a man.
As you begin to pose the family for the “formal” images, keep in mind the mobility and comfort of each family member. When posing the family in a seated position, pose the parents first.
One of the most common occurrences at this point in the session is for one parent (almost always the dad!) to express his or her inability to cross their legs while seated.
By having him bend his leg that is farthest from the center of the group and then “crossing” the other leg underneath (as illustrated in the image), he creates a position that most can achieve. In addition, you’ve also created a natural spot for a child to sit once you add them to the mix.
3. So the “sun won’t shine.”
Once the parents are both sitting, encourage them to get as close as possible to one another. The goal here is to not see any daylight coming in between the parents. This single factor can make all the difference in an image feeling connected vs. unconnected.
Before adding the kids, this is a great time to capture an image of just the parents together. More times than not, they haven’t had professional photographs taken since their wedding day and will welcome this opportunity.
Once the parents are in the ideal spot and you’ve grabbed a few shots, add the kids into the mix. Depending on the number of children in the family, place them accordingly.
If there is an even number, place them on either side of the parents and have them lean in. If there is an odd number of children, place one child (usually the smallest) in between the parents and the other two children on either side.
4. Don’t be square!
Although it can be more difficult during family sessions to create strong compositions, it is still very important to do so.
One of the easiest ways to ensure this when photographing families or larger groups is to envision a triangle. By placing the largest number of subjects towards the bottom, fewer in the middle and then the least on top, you have created a triangular grouping that is very pleasing to the eye.
5. Feel the burn!
Having a variety of poses for the “formal” shots will ensure that each family you photograph has a varied selection of final images to choose from.
After you have captured the family standing together, tell the children to remain where they are and then instruct the parents to squat down beside each child and then wrap their arms around the group in a large “bear hug”. By having them “stretch” their arm around the person on the other side, you are encouraging them to get as close to one another as possible. This directive will create a sense of closeness and connection between the family and create a strong final image.
These simple tips can take a lackluster, disconnected image and transform it into a beautiful, emotive photograph that any family would be thrilled to hang on their wall for years to come!
