I often get asked How can I improve my family photo taking skills? Especially around the holidays when people are taking photos of their loved ones at events and at home. I’ve compiled a quick list for reference here:

TIPS FOR PHOTOGRAPHING FAMILIES + CHILDREN

Capture the family in their genuine embrace, encourage them to hug each other and goof around
Get on the same level, having parents crouch down when posing with young children can help create a more controlled final portrait
Photograph from above to get small faces and features in focus
Bring small toys or play cartoons above the camera for small children
Remember to capture individuals of each child
Talk with the family beforehand and review clothing choices for a more cohesive image
Have parents interact in photos to show closeness
Pair up families with matriarch/patriarch in center and build outward with family units alternating for standing posed larger groups, shoot in a higher f/stop to ensure members are in focus and be sure to "window" people so you can see them clearly

COMMON MISTAKES WHEN PHOTOGRAPHING FAMILIES AND CHILDREN

Expecting young children to pose, or cooperate for an extended amount of time
Not checking for stains/messy hands/hair
Forgetting to get photos of individuals or pairs beyond the entire family
Not coordinating outfits in advance that match each other and the enviroment
Not coordinating an appropriate location (aka getting permits as needed, picking outdoor spots in bad weather)
Forgetting to remove sunglasses
Shooting a too low F/stop so members are not in focus