The best thing about photos is that they typically last forever, right!? And sometimes they are the best thing one can get for their family! Last Christmas I gifted family photos to my parents because it was something we hadn’t done with all the kids in forever and with the grand kids EVER! But some people think that it is super complicated to set up getting your pictures taken and it doesn’t have to be. Here are 5 tips on how to get GREAT family photos!
DON’T BE STINGY
So it is true that you do pay for what you get, but don’t be afraid to spend a little more than you might normally feel comfortable with. There are so many photographers out there these days so make sure you find one who you like their style. Check out their Instagram and websites before deciding. And if their full package is something you can’t swallow, then ask if they do mini sessions. These are just the same quality of photos and locations, but for a shorter amount of time but sometimes at half the cost!
photo via Michele Snyder Photography — Location Wells Street Bridge Fort Wayne, IN
TRY SOMETHING NEW
Make sure to scout out locations that you might not normally pick and ask your photographer for suggestions. I like to do something different every time. For this reason I try to get photos taken during different seasons. You might also think about having photos taken on vacation which will give you different backdrops too!
photo via Chloe Elizabeth Photo — Location St. Andrews State Park, Panama City Beach, Florida
BE NATURAL
I prefer candid shots, but not everyone is that way. Even if you prefer posed photos, make sure you are comfortable. Make sure what you are wearing and where you are feel right. Don’t be something you aren’t because that will come across in the photos. If you are a family that dresses up often, you can probably pull that off, but if you are a family who is more casual and comfortable in jeans, know people in jeans take great photos too!
photo via InJoy Photography — Location Foster Park, Fort Wayne, IN
DON’T MATCH
If there’s anything that makes for awkward family photos looking back, it’s those uncool matching outfits. Do Coordinate, but don’t MATCH. One, it leaves photos feeling flat. Mixing colors, textures, patterns etc will give your photos much more dimension and also give each participant a little more personality in them!
photo via Michele Snyder Photography — Location Promenade Park Fort Wayne, IN
HAVE FUN
Be silly. Tickle each other. Laugh. Kiss. Run. Play. The best family photos are those that show real people having a great time together… or like below, sisters having a silly little stare off!
Photo via Blue Balloon Photography — Location Fishers, Indiana
So there you have it, 5 tips to make your next set of family photos amazing! Give it a go! If spending on photos is a hard sell for you or out of your budget, look for a newer photographer who might be willing to work at a discount for the experience. Or ask for the photos as a gift from other family members. Or try to sell something you aren’t using to pay for them! Believe me, you’ll love looking back at them and reliving the moment plus seeing how much everyone has changed and grown. Photos can be magical and you should do your best to have them in your life!
OH and make sure to print them out too! We get stuck in our digital world, but it’s important to print them out and physically have them! Ok, I’m done! I cant’ wait to see your next photos!
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