A huge reason that people put off having family photos done is that they are convinced they will be so awkward in the photos. I regularly have clients tell me “we are no models!” or “we have no idea how to pose! Guess what? Almost none of my clients are real models! And honestly, those still pose/forced smiles never photograph well! You can have beautiful, natural, candid family photos no matter who you are or how much “experience” in front of the camera you have.
Here are some tips on how to look and feel less awkward in your family photos. Make sure to read all the way through because I saved the most important one for last!
MOVEMENT
A huge part of my photography experience is genuine connection and movement. Sitting still or “posing” will make clients, especially children look stiff. Move around and loosen up! Lean into your partner, move your head from one family member to the other. Reach down ruffle your kiddos’ hair or whisper a secret in their ear. Tickle them a bit or give them a giant squeeze. Hold hands and run towards the crazy camera lady or walk in a giant field. These movements will help create REAL smiles and genuine connections without you feeling and looking forced/stiff.
TOUCH
Touch is everything! This is similar to movement, but will really bring that emotion/connection into the photos. Physical contact is what brings a photo from blah to WOW. Your family photo session should be a way to show off the love that everyone has for one another. Heads should always be close together, arms should ALWAYS be touching someone, not dangling to the side. No gaps in between each other.
Here are some examples of things to do:
hold their hand
rest your hand on their chest
twirl their hair in your finger
gently grab their chin or touch forheads
snuggle them into a bear hug
tickle their belly
kiss their temple
The options are endless, and this adds so much connection to your images. This not only really brings out that emotion, but again, avoids those awkward, stiff poses.
Enjoy The Moment
This is a perfect time to take a mental step back and soak in some time with your family. Instead of focusing too much on the “perfect” family portraits, think about all the tiny details you want to remember from this stage. The things you want to remember about this moment, right now. The way your baby fits so perfectly into your arms, the way your toddler crinkles their nose, the way your partner looks at you or your babies. Focus on your family instead of the photographer. Just BE in the moment and forget about the camera. Love on your family and the emotions will shine right through in the final images. So lean in, soak it up, and be amazed at what your life has created.
