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