Help with taking Great Family Photos from a Dubai Family Photographer
The ability to capture a family's photos is among the most precious things one can do. It freezes time , and lets us revisit these moments over and over again. However, it's not always straightforward to take great family photographs particularly if you don't have a much expertise behind the camera.
This is why we consulted Dubai family photographer Alona Koenig for her top tips on making great family photos. Alona has been photographing families for a long time, and has gained a wealth of experience in making sure everyone is comfortable and relaxed when it comes to taking photos.
Here are Alona's top tips for taking great family photos:
Select the best time of day
The best time of day to take family photos is during the morning or late afternoon, when the light is soft and warm. Avoid taking photos during midday, when the sun is high in the sky. It casts harsh shadows over faces. If you are able, try to take photos outdoors in an open space with plenty of natural sunlight.
Here are some good time of day when you can think about shooting (and the reason why):
Golden hour
This is the hour that is just before sunset, and in which the light is warm and golden. It's a great time for photographing photos with the appearance of a "glow" to the photos.
Blue hour
It is the time just after sunset in which the sky still appears light but has turned to a deep blue color. Blue hour is a great opportunity to capture pictures that are full of mood.
Twilight
It's the time period between sunset and nightfall in which there's not much light. The time of sunset is ideal to capture creative images using long exposures or with off-camera flash.
Find the right location
The place you select for your family photo shoot is going to influence the overall atmosphere of the pictures. If you're looking to capture the feel of a relaxing weekend at home, select an area that is comfortable as well as familiar for your loved ones. If you want to capture the feeling of an adventure or vacation select a spot that's exciting and new. If you're trying to capture a particular emotion or mood, select a location that evokes that emotion.
A few great spots to take family photos are:
The beach
A park or garden
An urban setting
A nature reserve
Your backyard
Get everyone involved
One best way to make sure everyone has a great time during the photo shoot is by getting everyone involved in the process. Ask your family members to help you choose the location, choosing outfits, and posing for photographs. This will help them get more involved in the shoot, and make the experience more enjoyable for everyone.
Here are some ways to get everyone involved:
Let everyone pick out their own style. This will help them feel more at ease and fashionable in front of the camera.
If you're shooting outdoors ask your family members to assist in choosing the ideal location for the camera or choosing the best way to take.
Get everyone to strike poses. Posing can be a great method to encourage everyone to take a break and relax with the photo shoot.
Break the ice
If your family feels shy or awkward when it comes to taking pictures Try breaking the ice by telling jokes or funny faces. This will allow them to get comfortable and relax when they are in front of the camera.
You can also try playing various games or engaging in activities that can bring everyone together and have fun with each other. This can help you create candid, natural moments that you will cherish for the years to come.
Some great ice-breaking games as well as activities are:
Simon Says
I Spy
Charades
Truth or Dare
Categories
Don't be afraid to be creative
Don't be afraid to play around with the settings of your camera or experiment with new poses. This is a great method to give personality to your photographs and make them unique.
You can play around with include:
Camera settings: Play around with the aperture, shutter speed, and ISO to create various effects.
Lens options: You can use either a wide-angle or zoom lens to alter the perspective of your photographs.
Posing: try different ways of arranging your family members or let them interact with each other read more in creative ways.
Props: add some interest to your photos with props like balloons, umbrellas, or signs.
Prepare yourself
The key to success in a photo shoot is being prepared. Be sure to have everything you require click here before the day of the shoot so you're able to focus on taking great pictures.
The things you'll need carry with you are:
Your camera and lenses
Extra batteries and memory cards
The tripod (if you're using one)
Props (if you're using any)
Outfits (if you're planning a wardrobe change)
Kit for first aid (just in case)
drinks and snacks (for yourself and for your family)
Sunscreen (if you're shooting outdoors)
Insect repellent (if you're shooting outdoors)
Make sure you take your time
A key things to keep in mind when taking family photos is to be patient. This is not an event, therefore there's no need to hurry.
Make sure you take your time setting up every shot, and snap as many photos as you can to ensure that you get the perfect shot. If you don't get the cooperation of someone or if something goes wrong, don't worry - there's always a second chance.
But most importantly, be happy and enjoy the process. Remember, these photographs are meant to capture a moment in time which you as a loved ones will cherish for the years to come.
Final Thoughts
Photo shoots with family members can prove to be lots of fun but they can be quite challenging. By following these tips you'll be able make the most of your shoot , and make unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.
Alona Koenig, an experienced Dubai photojournalist for families who specializes in taking candid moments and interactions that are natural. Alona has been photographing families for more than 10 years, and she is passionate about documenting the bonds between parents and children. Visit her website to see her portfolio or get in touch with her to arrange a photo session.