Tips for the best way to take Great Family Photos from a Dubai Family Photographer
Capturing a family in photos is one of the most treasured things that anyone can do. It freezes time and allows us to revisit those moments again and again. But it's not always easy to capture great family pictures - especially in the event that you don't have many years of photography experience.
This is why we consulted Dubai photographer for families Alona Koenig for her tips for making great family photos. Alona has been taking photos of families for a long time, and has got a lot of experience in making sure everyone is relaxed and comfortable before the camera.
Here are some of Alona's top suggestions for taking great family photos:
Pick the most appropriate time of the day
The ideal time for family pictures is in the morning or in the late afternoon as the lighting is warm and soft. Be careful not to take photos during the middle of the day, when the sun rises high in the sky and casts harsh shadows on faces. If you can, plan to shoot outdoors in an open place with plenty of natural lighting.
Here are some excellent times of day to plan you shoot (and why):
Golden hour
This is the hour prior to sunset, when the lighting is golden and warm. It's an ideal time for photographing photos with an "glow" to them.
Blue hour
It is the time just after sunset, when the sky is still light but has turned to a deep blue shade. Blue hour is a wonderful opportunity to capture pictures that are full of mood.
Twilight
It's the period between sunset and evening, where there isn't much light. It's a wonderful time to take creative pictures using long exposures or using off-camera flash.
Find the right place
The location you choose for your family photo shoot is going to affect the overall atmosphere of the photos. If you're hoping to capture the feeling of a relaxed weekend at home with your family, pick a location that's comfortable as well as familiar for your loved ones. If you're trying to capture the experience of a trip or adventure, choose a location that is new and exciting. If you're looking to capture a specific emotion or mood, select the location that brings the emotion.
A few great spots for family pictures include:
The beach
A garden or a park
An urban setting
A nature reserve
Your backyard is yours
Get everyone involved
One of the best ways to make sure everyone is having a good time at photography is by getting everyone involved. Invite your family members to assist with things such as choosing the location, choosing clothes, and taking photographs. This will make them be more involved in the photo shoot and will help make the experience more enjoyable for everyone.
Here are some ideas on how to get everyone involved:
Let everyone pick out their own outfit. This will allow them to feel more comfortable and stylish before the camera.
If you're shooting outdoors request your family members to assist in finding the perfect spot to get more info set up your camera or choosing the best way to walk.
Get everyone to strike poses. Posing poses can be a fantastic way to get everyone to take a break and relax with the photo shoot.
Break the ice
If your family is feeling uncomfortable or shy in front of the camera, try breaking the ice with some jokes or funny expressions. This will allow them to get comfortable and relax when they are in front of the camera.
You can also try playing some games or doing some activities that will make everyone laugh and interact with each other. This will help you capture natural, candid moments that will be treasured for the years to be.
The best ice-breaking games or activities comprise:
Simon Says
I Spy
Charades
Truth or Dare
Categories
Don't be afraid to be creative
Don't be afraid to experiment with your camera's settings or experiment with new poses. This is a great way to inject some personality into your photographs and make them more unique.
Things you can try with include:
Camera settings: experiment with the aperture, shutter speed and ISO to create different effects.
get more info Lens options: You can use wide-angle lenses or a telephoto lens to change the angle of your pictures.
Posing: try different ways of arranging your family members or even have them interact with each other by using different ways.
Props: add some excitement to your photos with props like umbrellas, balloons or signs.
Prepare yourself
The key to success in a photograph shoot is preparation. Make sure you have everything you require before the date of your shoot, so you can focus on taking great photos.
Things you'll need to take along include:
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 making changing your wardrobe)
Kit for first aid (just in the event of)
Drinks and snacks (for you and your family)
Sunscreen (if you're shooting outdoors)
Insect repellent (if you're shooting outdoors)
Take your time.
A key points to remember when taking family photos is to slow down. It's not a race, so there's no need to rush.
Make sure you take your time setting up each shot, and then take as many photos as you'll need to achieve the best shot. And if someone isn't cooperating or something doesn't go as planned, don't worry - there's always a second chance.
Most importantly, be happy and enjoy the process. In the end, these pictures are intended to record a moment that you and your family will cherish for long time to come.
Final Thoughts
Family photo shoots can be a lot of fun but they can be quite challenging. If you follow these guidelines you'll be able maximize your shoot and capture some unforgettable memories that will last for a lifetime.
Alona Koenig works as an experienced Dubai photojournalist for families who is a specialist in capturing candid moments and genuine interactions. Alona has been photographing families for over 10 years and enjoys documenting the special bond between children and parents. Visit her website for her portfolio, or call her to book a session.