The family portrait: dos and don’ts

Throughout history, noble families have paid painters to make portraits of their proud lineage.  Family portraits remain one of the best ways to preserve a family’s heritage.

This practice has evolved in the digital age of cameras which make it easier for members of families to take their own family photos if they do not want to employ a professional to do it.

Here are some easy to follow dos and don’ts that could help you get great family memories:

DO: Choose the photographer

If your family has the luxury of time and resources, you can schedule an appointment with a professional portrait photographer. All you need to worry about is how you should dress and the photographer will take care of the rest.

DO: Plan on what to wear

There’s nothing shabbier than a family portrait that has you looking like a rag doll next to a well-dressed Mom and Dad.

If you decide to wear formal clothing, make sure everyone is formal clothing. You don’t want anyone to stand out.

Coordinated colors show unity and harmony in print. You don’t need to wear matching outfits, however, you can wear the same color or dress in contrast but have a specific and recognizable theme in place.

DON’T: Shoot when someone is in a bad mood

Professional photoshoots are often scheduled, so make an effort to keep each other happy prior to the photo session. If you’ve been planning a family portrait session get everyone in a relaxed mood before heading to your session.

Be sure to have a natural expression on your face, that is, no forced grins.  You don’t want the faces in your family portrait to look glum or uninviting.

Any negative vibe could be reflected, so unless you want your family portraits to look like a photo of a wrestling match make each other happy!

DO:  Change the scenery

Dare to be different and strive for family portraits that are not “perfect”.  Work with your photographer to provide your family with some alternative to the stiff and posed in-studio portraits.

We’re no longer in the medieval ages where pictures of families are stiff and formal unless this is the direction you want to go. Experiment with the poses, kneel, lie down, jump, go high or low, and get wacky!

Family portraits should be easy and fun.  Don’t worry about needing to lose weight, having the perfect hairstyle, or forgetting to shave before the session. Family portraits not only capture memories but it’s also a bonding moment for the family to be together.

And later, you probably won’t remember many of the reasons you hesitated to have a family portrait done, but you will forever remember the faces and laughter you had together as a family.