Family Photos – How To Capture That Perfect Shot

Inside:How to Get Perfect Family Photos You’ll Cherish Forever

Do you ever scroll through Facebook and wonder how some moms get such great photos of their kids?

I used to think they must have taken some kind of classes or had big fancy cameras. No matter how hard I tried, I just felt like I was never going to be able to take really good pictures of my kids.

But it just so happens one of my sweet mama friends has a secret identity as a rockstar pro photographer. I convinced her to let me in on some of the tricks of trade she uses so you can capture the best pictures of your children!

Here are her best tips for capturing that perfect shot.

Family Photos – Tips From A Pro Photographer

Tip #1- No one say “CHEESE!”

Using the old stand by, “Say Cheese!” or “Say ______!” results in fake, cheeky smiles that no one really likes.  Instead, use a phrase like “Don’t you dare smile at me!” jokingly, to illicit natural smiles and expressions.

Make fun of yourself, stage a fake fall or have them give you a high five and pretend it hurt are all tricks that go a long way in making kids laugh and react happily.

Cheese face on the right, laughter on the left.

Tip #2- No one stay still

The best images of children often come when they’re not stuck in a traditional photographer’s pose.  Letting siblings interact, hold hands, play ring a round the rosy, run together, or even tickle one another. Another bonus with this is that while the kids are playing, there really is no negativity, harshness, or yelling associated with having pictures taken, making it relaxed and pleasant for all.

Tip #3- No one in the dark

Try and find great lighting in the shade, generally in the morning or dusk but beware of shadows on your children’s faces.  Face the kids towards the light source and be sure to get on the level of your subject.  Be prepared to walk around on your knees, crawl on your belly, and squat a lot to achieve the best results!!!!!!

Soft even lighting on top shot, bottom shot shows harsh lighting caused by full on sun

My family has been so blessed to have Nichole as our family’s photographer for several years and she is just amazing! Nichole has a unique gift and is able to connect with her subjects and immediately put them at ease which is why her images are just splendid!

Take note of that statement, RELAX and your kiddos will relax.  Although, in the spirit of full disclosure, I am not permitted to stay when my kiddos are being photographed, I drive Nichole & my offspring nuts, I’m a total uptight mess. I’m working on it…

 

 All images copyrighted and property of Nichole Marie Photography.

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