Hi friends! I’m so excited about today’s post because it’s one you all have been asking me about for a while: Tips for Taking Good Family Photos. Luckily because of my blog I’ve had a lot of experience taking photos, in general, although trust me I am still not totally 100% confident in front of the camera. I know what to do because it’s become routine but I can totally relate to those of you who feel like they don’t know where to look, put their hands, how to smile naturally, etc. It takes PRACTICE. And remember, I’ve had 9+ years of it, documenting photos almost daily! While I have some tips in general about taking photos, or at least I know what has worked for me, I know a lot of you are planning family photos for the holiday season and I thought I would reach out to an expert in family photography, my amazing photographer Priscilla Frey!
Priscilla is one of the sweetest people and always makes me feel so comfortable behind her camera. I always love the moments she captures, the ones with me, Matthew, and Augustine, and also the ones I see her share of other families and couples. Today she is sharing her best tips for taking good family photos. I hope they help you as you start to plan your family sessions for the holiday season! And if you have any questions for her {or me for that matter!}, please leave them in the comments below and I’ll make sure they get answered!
A Photographer’s Top Tips for Taking Good Family Photos
1. Make sure everyone is well rested and tummies are full! Most photoshoots will take place before sunset, which is also close to dinner time. Be sure to feed the little ones prior so that they are happy and content!
2. Plan ahead: Pick outfits for the entire family ahead of time. Lay them out on your bed so that you have a visual of what everyone’s outfits will look like together. Try to focus on neutrals and limit the amount of patterns on each family member. If you plan to display your family photo on your wall, think about the colors throughout your home and choose colors that will complement your decor.
3. Mini sessions are great for short attention spans and smaller families who are simply looking for a photo to place on their holiday card! One hour family sessions allow more time so you can relax during your session and not feel rushed. If one child doesn’t want to participate for a moment, the attention can shift to other family combinations. Choose a session time that you think will work best with your family dynamic!
4. For families with babies and toddlers, bring along another family member or friend who can grab the attention of the child for posed photos.
5. Have fun! The best moments captured are the candid ones! Kids will be kids, and don’t we want to see our babies giggling and being silly in a photo, just as we see them each day? Don’t be afraid to give kisses, toss them in the air, tickle and laugh. Follow their lead, and the magic will unfold organically.
SHOP MY OUTFIT
dress . scarf . booties . bangle . chain bracelet . stacked ring . pearl ring .
SHOP AUGUSTINE’S OUTFIT
SHOP MATTHEW’S OUTFIT
shirt . sweater . jeans . boots .
Do you have any go-to ways to take great family photos? I’d love to hear your thoughts on this subject! If you’re looking for cute outfits for your little ones then you have to see all of the adorable fall and winter styles I picked up for Augustine! And because I’m expecting a baby girl {still so surreal!!!}, I also picked out cute girl styles for you to choose from!
xox
P.S. If you’re looking for a great photographer in the OC area, you can find Priscilla here!
photos by Priscilla Frey
