The Ultimate Guide to Family Portrait Photography
A family photoshoot is one of the most effective ways of capturing the loving bond between family members, whether there are just three of you or you’re including the entire extended family. One of the greatest honours I have is being brought into the family fold to witness and capture these beautiful moments in beautiful Adelaide settings that will be on display forever. But what do you need to do to ensure the shoot is a roaring success? Here are some of my top tips for family portrait photography…
Family photoshoot: Tip #1…
Be your authentic selves
There is literally no right or wrong way to approach a family portrait. It’s all about what best represents your family! Whether you and the fam are fairly chilled, or totally zany, let’s create a shoot that best captures that – not something that flips the script! It’s painfully obvious when families are feeling uncomfortable, and it comes across in the snaps…
On that note, one of the best things I can do for you is just let you hang out together. I’ll be there, melting into the background (almost) so I can capture your natural interactions, rather than sticking entirely with posed, stiff photos.
Family photoshoot: Tip #2…
Consider where your family photos will live
Much like with newborn photography, considering where your images are going to end up and how they will tie in with your existing home décor is essential. I can help you choose a colour palate for your outfits, and even the right setting to complement your home.
On top of this, you’ll need to consider the space you’re planning on hanging your family portraits. Scale and finishes are important considerations. Many of my clients send me snaps of the spaces they’re planning on utilising for displaying their photos. I can advise on which size of image you should be selecting as well as options for the final presentation. You may opt for traditional framing, canvas, newer boxed framed canvas or even wood art or acrylic! Each finish will have different implications for how I shoot and edit your family photoshoot.




Family photoshoot: Tip #3…
Don’t stress!
Family photoshoot: Tip #4…
Location is key!
Ultimately, the decision to have a family photoshoot is not a decision to make lightly. As you’ve read, there’s so much more to consider than simply ‘point and shoot’. In preparation for any shoot, I’m thinking about how best to capture your deeply held connections, and how you want these to be presented to the world forever more. As with everything, experience and professionalism will play a big part in the results you get from a family portrait photography session.
If you’d like to book a family photoshoot or would like some more information, simply head to my bookings page and follow the prompts! Or to chat now call 0414 893 056.
~Melissa x