How to have the best family pictures.

The key to taking genuine and authentic family expressions is knowing how to pose in front of the camera.

If you’ve never taken professional family photos before or want to improve on your last session, here is some advice on how to pose that will leave you with exceptional images.

Get Close

The last thing you want is a family portrait that looks stiff and awkward. The secret to creating a beautiful, intimate family photo is to get close. Snuggle up with the people you love! If people of varying heights are in the image, have a few pictures on the same level.

I encourage you also to embrace the height differences in your family. I photographed a family in which the mom is taller than the dad. While we did photograph everyone at the same level, We also played with natural, candid interactions that brought out everyone's personalities.

Have Fun!

Your portraits always look more authentic when your family is genuinely having fun and laughing. Spend time talking about your favorite vacation or a memory that makes you laugh out loud. These candid moments always make for the best images.

I always include games or activities in family sessions that keep everyone engaged. Two of my favorites are peek-a-boo or hide-and-seek around trees with toddlers!

Keep it Natural

Relax, when you overthink posing, it takes away from the genuineness. Choose a location where you’re all comfortable and can enjoy your lives as naturally as possible. For example, if you’re in an outdoor environment, we take your little one for a walk. We can bake something together or snuggle up for a story for a session in your home.

Use Your Surroundings

While standing still in the middle of a room or garden will make your photos look stiff. Use your surroundings to make yourselves comfortable. If there’s a wall nearby, lean up against it. If a coach is available, pose for a few takes.

When I pose families, this is not even something you think about alone because I will guide you every step and look for the tiniest things to make a big difference.

Add a few of your favorite things

To personalize your session or give a younger child something to do, you can always incorporate a few basic props into your pose to get a few unique expressions.

For example, you can bring a favorite toy, blanket everyone loves, bubbles, or even roller skates to play together!

Do you need more ideas?

If you still have questions about your photo shoot and how to make the most of it, click the button below, and I will be happy to assist you with additional tips.

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A Guide to posing for your family portraits