We all place tremendous value on our family photos, however 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.
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.
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).
Outside photos always benefit from being taken at a time with the optimum level of light; either at sunrise or sunset. However you should avoid taking your photo in direct sunlight. If you have situated your subject in a more shaded position then you should make use of the flash. Inside photos should always be taken with a flash, and you should consider your distance from the subject when using the flash (if your camera has an ISO of 100, then distance yourself twelve feet away). You should try and avoid including mirrors or other objects with reflective surfaces in the background of your photo. If this is unavoidable then make sure the flash is not perpendicular to the object.
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
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.
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).
Outside photos always benefit from being taken at a time with the optimum level of light; either at sunrise or sunset. However you should avoid taking your photo in direct sunlight. If you have situated your subject in a more shaded position then you should make use of the flash. Inside photos should always be taken with a flash, and you should consider your distance from the subject when using the flash (if your camera has an ISO of 100, then distance yourself twelve feet away). You should try and avoid including mirrors or other objects with reflective surfaces in the background of your photo. If this is unavoidable then make sure the flash is not perpendicular to the object.
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
About the Author:
Craig Stewart is a professional photographer who has immersed his being in all things to do with photography. As a family man, he appreciates the importance of taking the essential family portrait. To find out more on this topic, please visit his website at Family Portrait Photography
