Capturing a Professional Looking Family Portrait

By Craig Stewart

The city of Perth provides many picturesque landscapes and backdrops for the perfect family portrait, however taking advantage of this can be tricky for those who do not have a background in professional photography. Although we all place tremendous value on our family photos, today's economic climate and hectic lifestyle prevents the majority of us from pursuing any form of photography courses which would allow us to capture the perfect memories on film or hardrive. This is not a problem, as there are many tips and insider secrets which go a long way towards you taking photos with an undeniable professional edge to them.

Whether inside or out, rain or shine, light or shade, a basic knowledge of photographic skills can go a long way towards improving your photos. The first step for anything is always planning, which does not differ here. Think about the photograph you want to take, think about who, what, where and when. Also making sure that your digital camera is charged or that you have film is a simple yet vital part of the finished photograph, as you can't take the picture without the camera!

The most important thing in your picture is simplicity. You want to maintain one focal point in the picture or else it will look too busy. In a family portrait, this will be the people in your photograph. Try and make sure clothing is kept to bright, solid colours (clothing with logos or more elaborate design such as stripes and patterns can be a distraction). Try to pick a background with large, repetitive patterns e.g. a hedge or a wall. If the background is too distracting, either move or blur the background in your photograph This keeps attention on the focal point of your picture. You should also allow plenty of space on either side of the end people in case of future cropping (you don't want people with lost limbs in your photo).

The most important thing in your picture is simplicity. You want to maintain one focal point in the picture or else it will look too busy. In a family portrait, this will be the people in your photograph. Try and make sure clothing is kept to bright, solid colours (clothing with logos or more elaborate design such as stripes and patterns can be a distraction). Try to pick a background with large, repetitive patterns e.g. a hedge or a wall. If the background is too distracting, either move or blur the background in your photograph This keeps attention on the focal point of your picture. You should also allow plenty of space on either side of the end people in case of future cropping (you don't want people with lost limbs in your photo).

Framing is another important part of the finished photo. Try and look for such backdrops as doorways, arches and windows which act as a border for your subject. This will place emphasis on your focal point and leads to a better photo. As your family are unlikely to remain still while you're taking your photo, you should check your digital camera's LCD screen for any mistakes such as closed eyes. Even if you can not spot any irregularities, it is always a good idea to take multiple photos in case you missed something. If you are using an older camera, multiple shots are essential.

These simple tips go along way towards establishing you as a better portrait photographer, and will make sure your special family memories are yours forever. - 33385

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