(BPT) - As the holidays approach, many
families are planning annual portraits for personalized cards
and gifts to loved ones. But this can be a
complex planning ordeal for even the most organized person. In addition to coordinating schedules and
what everyone should wear, it's just as important to focus on the best photography tips, tools and
techniques to make the most of your family portrait.
"Everyone who has ever taken or posed
for a family photo knows it's a rewarding yet challenging
endeavor," says Tim Meyer,-owner of
Meyer Photography and program chair of the portrait division of photography at Brooks Institute, a leading
provider of higher education for film, visual journalism,
graphic design and photography. "The
good news is that with proper planning and digital photography advances families can get higher-quality
photos than ever before, whether you're hiring a professional photographer or doing it yourself."
While it can still be difficult to capture
the entire family with smiles on their faces, Meyer offers six
tips for taking the perfect family portrait
this holiday:
1. Invest in quality camera equipment.
Digital photography has brought the world of photography to
the masses, and high-quality digital
cameras can be purchased new or used at reasonable prices. For
family portraits, make sure the camera has
a timer so you can be a part of the picture. You should also
consider buying a tripod to steady your
camera and make your photo shoot easier.
2. Scope out the best locations and background
for the shoot. Think outside the family fireplace to
create interesting indoor backdrops for
family photos - but avoid mirrors and windows that can create
issues by reflecting light. If choosing an
outdoor location, make sure it is free from distraction. Like
indoor shots, intricate patterns or
background commotion can distract from the subject of the photo - in this case, your family.
3. Consider the best time for taking photos
with your family. Natural lighting is great for family photos, particularly the golden hour - the first
and last hour of sunlight during each day. If this isn't convenient
for your family, choose a time when any
children involved in the picture are well rested and more apt to patiently pose for photos. If you're shooting
indoors, ensure there's adequate lighting, whether natural or from other sources.
4. Take lots of shots, but remember that
the best expressions with children are often the first ones.
Group photos are challenging, considering
the number of people who must smile and look their best at the same time. Chances are you'll have
several photos with eye-blinking subjects and wiggly children. To increase your odds of getting the best
family portrait, take as many photos as possible and vary the composition to get different angles and
arrangements.
5. Plan ahead if including a furry friend
in your family portraits. Many people view their pets as
members of the family, so it's only fitting
that you might want to include your beloved pet in a family
portrait. If so, choose a time when the pet
is naturally calmer, perhaps after a walk or at nap time. Also,bring treats to hold the pet's attention
and reward the pet for a job well done.
6. Leave it to the professionals. If the
challenge of taking your own family photographs becomes
overwhelming, connect with a professional
photographer who can provide additional tips or
work within your budget to help you get
professional family photos in time for the holidays.
Today's professionals offer a greater variety
of styles and ways of sharing your images than ever
before.
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