5 tips for more natural family photos

Creating memories with family is so important. To capture natural photos can be difficult, but it shouldn’t be. When preparing for your family photo shoot it is important to keep a few things in mind. Things may not always go as planned and that’s okay. Moments aren’t perfect and that is what makes it so special. You want something to look back on, to remember and to laugh about. It is my job to make you feel at ease, but here are a few tips to help you prepare for your family shoot.

1. Location

Choosing a location is very important. You want the location to resemble who you are as a family. If your kids are young, choose a location they will enjoy. The location only forms a small part of having a more natural family shoot, but it will have a massive impact on the outcome of your photos. When choosing a location it is important to take the weather in account as well as sunset or sunrise times. I love to shoot an hour before sunset or just before sunrise to get soft and warm light. This will depend on your location though so remember to discuss this with your photographer.

2. Activity

Choosing a fun activity to do as a family can also create special and natural photos. It keeps the kids busy and gives me a chance to capture the real moments. It can be as simple as playing a game on the beach. This works well when your kids start to get tired of having their photo taken. Doing an activity as a family gives you an opportunity to engage and connect. It is a great way to bring out the natural and funny moments and it is a great way to keep the kids entertained and happy. Choose something that you as a family will enjoy. Get input and ideas from your kids to get them excited for the shoot.

3. Planning your shoot

Planning may not be seen as creating natural family photos, but let’s face it, with kids you need to plan and have some sort of routine. Talk to them about the shoot and ask their input. Involving them in the decisions will certainly make them more excited. Choose the best time for your family to take photos. Keeping their routine in mind (nap times, snack times etc). When we have a set plan for the shoot, everything runs more smoothly and I can work quick and easy and be able to keep everyone engaged.

4. Relax

I know telling someone to ‘relax’ is not ideal, but unfortunately, especially with family shoots, it’s sometimes necessary. There is always a chance that things won’t go as planned. Manage your expectations and just go with it. I know this isn’t always easy, but getting tense and irritated won’t help in getting more natural photos. Try to laugh and love the imperfections. It is the imperfect moments that makes your family perfect and unique. Let me be in charge and ‘manage’ the shoot. Focus on having fun with your family.

5. You don’t have to look at the camera

Out with the old and in with the new. Not everyone has to look at the camera for it to be a beautiful photo. If you think about it, natural moments usually happens when nobody is looking. Be in the moment. Enjoy this time with your family and stop worrying about whether your kids are looking at the camera. When you are engaging with your family instead of constantly worrying where the camera is you will see the true and natural moments. It is my job to ask everyone to look at me when I feel the need for it. So relax, enjoy this time and you will see the natural connection you have as a family.

When you start planning your shoot, have a look at Pinterest for inspiration. Look at color palettes, poses, location options, activities etc. It’s a great platform to help you form an idea. Just keep in mind it is for inspiration purposes only. No shoot can be made to exactly match your Pinterest photo so please manage your expectations. Use it to form your own idea of what your family shoot should be. Keep it real and simple and trust your photographer to capture the true moments.

I hope this has helped a tiny bit with preparing for your family shoot. Using some or all of these tips will definitely have an impact on creating more natural family photos.