Planning Your Family Portrait. Tips and Tricks

Capturing the essence of your family through a portrait is a meaningful way to create lasting memories. A perfectly planned photo shoot can produce stunning images that you will cherish for years to come. Whether it’s your first family portrait or you're a seasoned pro, the right preparation can make all the difference. In this guide, we'll explore essential tips to help you plan for the perfect family portrait session.

Choosing the Right Time of Year for an Outdoor Season

The timing of your family portrait matters. Outdoor shoots tend to be weather dependant. Seasons play a significant role in the ambiance of your photos. Here are some tips on when to schedule your shoot:

• Spring: This season provides blooming flowers and vibrant colours, perfect for outdoor shoots. The weather is usually mild, but take a brolly in case of spring showers.

• Summer: Longer days mean more lighting options. However, be cautious of the heat and plan your shoot during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon.

• Autumn: Autumn is renowned for its warm tones and beautiful foliage, creating a stunning backdrop for family portraits. Plus, it offers plenty of textures with leaves changing colours.

• Winter: If we're lucky enough to get snow, a snow-covered landscape can provide a unique and magical backdrop. Just ensure everyone is dressed warmly to stay comfortable. Alternatively you could also start a family tradition and dress in your favourite Christmas jumper or pyjamas in a Christmas studio scene. This seasonal treat came across form the States and is slowly building momentum here.

  
  

Autumn leaves setting for family portrait

Selecting the Perfect Location

Where your family portrait is taken can greatly influence the overall vibe of your photos. Consider these possibilities for your shooting location:

• Parks: Nature-filled parks offer a serene background with greenery and scenic views. Research local parks that have beautiful walking paths, trees, and open fields.

• Beaches: If you live near a coastline, a beach setting can be fresh and inviting. The sunset can provide beautiful lighting for your portraits.

• Home: If you prefer a more intimate setting, consider taking portraits in your home. It can be appealing to capture your family in a place where you spend quality time together but be aware that the photographers will need space to move around and put their equipment.

• Studio: If you'd prefer a plain backdrop with no distractions, a studio option will give you a minimal look. Lighting and weather conditions aren't a problem and a good all year round option. Being indoors, your outfit and hair won't get dishevelled by the elements and you can easily store a change of outfit and touch-up your make-up hassle free. Also, children won't get as mucky and dirty as if they would outside running around. A studio setting is a more convenient and controlled environment.

  
  

A beautiful park landscape ideal for family photography

Outfits and Styling: What to Wear

Your family’s clothing choices can enhance the overall aesthetic of your portrait. Here are some style tips to consider:

• Coordinate, Don’t Match: Instead of dressing everyone in identical outfits, opt for colours that complement each other. Mixing solid colours in similar colours can add contrast without being overwhelming.

• Consider the Season: If it’s autumn/winter, warm earth tones work well, while light and airy fabrics are great for spring/summer. Adjust your clothing based on the location’s theme to create harmony within the shoot.

• Avoid Logos and Busy Patterns: They can be distracting in photographs. Instead, focus on timeless styles that add elegance without drawing attention away from the subject.

• Layering: Wearing layers can provide depth and versatility in your portraits. Consider shawls, cardigans, or hats that can be added or removed for a variety of looks.

  
  

Choosing the right outfits for your family portrait will help create a cohesive look and feel in your images.

Stylish coordinated outfits for family photography

Preparing Your Family

To ensure that everyone is relaxed and ready for the photo session, take the following steps in preparation:

• Communicate with Kids: If you have young children, explain to them what the day will entail. Play with them beforehand to help them feel at ease. Try not to over excite them.

• Practice Posing: Have fun with posing at home in front of a mirror. This can help everyone feel more confident in front of the camera.

• Encourage Relaxation: Stress can reflect in photos, so find ways to keep everyone relaxed. Bring snacks, play their favourite music, and including a favourite toy.

• Plan a Breaks: If you’re working with little ones, your photographer should schedule breaks to avoid meltdowns. It’s better to take short pauses than to push through with unhappy faces.

  
  

These simple preparations can help create a positive experience that leads to beautiful family portraits.

Capturing Authentic Expressions

One key to a successful family portrait is capturing genuine moments and expressions. Here are some tips to achieve that:

• Candid Shots: Sometimes the best photos come from candid moments. Encourage your photographer to take candid shots in addition to posed ones, allowing your family’s personality to shine through.

• Engage in Activities: Instead of only posing for the camera, engage in fun activities together. Play games, tell jokes, tickle, jump, or dance. This will create natural expressions and interactions between family members.

• Props: Small props can add fun and uniqueness to your portraits. Consider using items like a favourite book, musical instrument, or even a family pet to engage everyone further.

  
  

By fostering a relaxed and fun environment, you are more likely to capture contagious smiles and laughter.

Final Thoughts on Your Family Portrait Session

Planning a family portrait can be an enjoyable and fulfilling process. By considering the season, selecting a beautiful location, coordinating outfits, preparing everyone, and focusing on authenticity, you will set the stage for a memorable photo session.

This is a time to capture cherished memories that reflect your family's love and connection. As you plan for your shoot, remember to relax and enjoy the experience. Your unique family story is worth telling through the lens of a camera that you will look back on fondly for years to come.