Help with Taking Great Family Photos from a Dubai Family Photographer
Photographing a family is among the most treasured things that anyone can do. It freezes time and allows us to revisit these moments over and over again. It's not always simple to get great family photos even when you don't have a lot of experience behind the camera.
We turned to Dubai photographer for families Alona Koenig for her best tips for taking great family photos. Alona has been photographing families for years, and she's gained a wealth of experience in making sure everyone is relaxed and comfortable in front of the camera.
Here are Alona's top tips for taking great family photos:
Pick the most appropriate time of the day
The ideal time to capture family photos is during the morning or in the late afternoon, when the lighting is warm and soft. Do not take pictures during the middle of the day, when the sun is high up in the sky. It casts harsh shadows over faces. If you can, make plans to take pictures outdoors in an open space with plenty of natural lighting.
Here are some great time of day when you can think about shooting (and the reason why):
Golden hour
This is the hour that is just before sunset, and in which the light is warm and golden. It's a great time for photographing photos with an "glow" to them.
Blue hour
This is the hour just after sunset in which the sky is still clear but has turned a deep blue shade. Blue hour is an excellent time for taking atmospheric pictures that are full of mood.
Twilight
It's the period between sunset and evening, when there's very little light. It's a wonderful time for taking creative photos with long exposures or with off-camera flash.
Find the right address
The location you pick for your family photo shoot is going to have a big impact on the overall atmosphere of the pictures. If you're looking to capture the feeling of a peaceful weekend at home with your family, pick a location that's comfortable as well as familiar for your loved ones. If you're looking to capture the feeling of a trip or adventure pick a place that's exciting and new. If you're looking to capture a certain atmosphere or emotion, pick an area that is able to evoke the emotion.
A few great spots for family pictures include:
The beach
A garden or park
An urban setting
A nature reserve
Your own backyard
Get everyone involved
One best way to make sure everyone has a great time at your photo session is to involve everyone involved in the process. Have your family members help with things like choosing the location, choosing outfits, and even posing for photos. This will help them feel more invested in the shoot, and it will make the experience more enjoyable for everyone.
Here are some ideas on how you can involve everyone:
Everyone should pick their own clothes. This will allow them to feel more comfortable and stylish before the camera.
If you're shooting outdoors ask your family members to assist with things like finding the perfect spot to set up your camera, or deciding on the most suitable route to take.
Make sure everyone strikes an oblique pose. Posing is a great method to encourage everyone to relax and have some fun when taking photos.
Break the ice
If your family feels uncomfortable or shy before the camera You can break the ice with some humorous jokes or funny pictures. This can help them relax and feel more comfortable in front of the lens.
You can also try playing various games or engaging in activities that make everyone laugh and interact with one another. This will allow you to capture natural, candid moments that will be cherished for the years to be.
A few great games to break the ice and activities include:
Simon Says
I Spy
Charades
Truth or Dare
Categories
Don't be afraid to be creative
Don't be afraid to play around with your camera settings or experiment with new poses. This is a great way to add some personality to your photos and make them stand out.
You can play around with include:
Camera settings: experiment with the aperture, shutter speed, and ISO to create various effects.
Lens choices: try using either a wide-angle or Telephoto lens to alter the perspective of your photos.
Posing: try different ways of arranging your family members or even have them interact by using different ways.
Props: add some interest to your photos by using props such as umbrellas, balloons or signs.
Be prepared
The key to a successful photo shoot is to be prepared. Be sure to have everything you require before the day of the shoot, so you can focus on taking great photos.
Some things you'll need to carry with you are:
Camera and lens
Extra batteries and memory cards
A tripod (if you're using one)
Props (if you're using any)
Outfits (if you're making an outfit change)
A first-aid kit (just in the event)
Drinks and snacks (for both you and your family)
Sunscreen (if you're shooting outdoors)
Insect repellent (if you're shooting outdoors)
Take your time
A key points to be aware of when taking family photographs is to slow down. This is not a race, so there's no need to hurry.
Set up your camera in a thoughtful more info manner for each shot, and take the number of photos you can to ensure that you get the best picture. If you don't get the cooperation of someone or something doesn't go as planned Don't fret - there's always a second chance.
But most importantly, have fun and enjoy the process. In the end, these pictures are designed to website capture a moment in time to cherish with your loved ones will cherish for years to come.
Final Thoughts
Photographing family photos can be lots of enjoyable however, they can also be a bit challenging. If you follow these guidelines, you'll be able to maximize your shoot , and make beautiful memories that will last a lifetime.
Alona Koenig, photographer from Dubai family photographer who specializes in capturing candid moments and genuine interactions. Alona has been taking photos of families for more than 10 years and enjoys documenting the special bonds between parents and children. Visit her website to view her portfolio or get in touch with her to book a session.