Capturing candid family photos can be a delightful and rewarding experience, but it requires a bit of finesse to ensure that the moments you capture are genuine and joyful. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid when photographing families, especially when kids are involved. By steering clear of these, you'll be able to capture the essence of the family and the authentic interactions that make candid photos so special.
1. Avoid Stagnant Poses
Candid photos thrive on natural movement and interaction.
Encouraging families to sit or stand in a stiff, stagnant pose can lead to awkward and unnatural images at the start of the session. Instead, prompt them to engage in activities like walking, playing, or interacting with one another. This approach helps capture genuine emotions and expressions.
2. Don't Startle with Close-Ups
Beginning a session by getting too close to your subjects' faces can be intimidating, especially for children. It can make them feel uncomfortable and disrupt the natural flow of the shoot. Start with a wider shot to help everyone get accustomed to the camera's presence, then gradually move in closer as they become more comfortable. Another option for this is to use a zoom lens.
3. Avoid Forcing Smiles or Eye Contact
Forcing kids (or adults) to look at the camera or smile can result in stiff and unnatural expressions. Instead, let the family interact naturally and capture those moments of genuine joy and connection. You might ask them to look at each other or share a funny story to elicit natural smiles and laughter.
4. Skip the 'Say Cheese' Routine
The classic "say cheese" command often leads to forced, unnatural smiles that can look more like grimaces. Rather than directing everyone to say something specific, try engaging in light conversation or play a game to capture more authentic smiles and expressions. If you are going for the classic smile at the camera i recommend puppies or pizza instead of cheese.
5. Keep Your Volume Down
Speaking loudly or giving constant instructions can overwhelm and overstimulate children, making it difficult for them to relax and enjoy the session. Keep your voice calm and gentle, and give instructions sparingly. Let the family interact naturally and only intervene when necessary to guide the session.
6. Avoid Direct Sunlight in the Eyes
One of the quickest ways to ruin a photo is by having your subjects stare directly into the sun. Not only does this make it difficult for them to keep their eyes open, but it also causes harsh shadows and squinting, making for uncomfortable expressions. Instead, look for shaded areas or use the soft, diffused light of the golden hour to create flattering, natural lighting.
7. Watch Out for Windy Conditions
Wind-blowing hair across faces can obscure features and create a messy look. If it's windy, try to position your subjects with the wind at their back or seek sheltered locations to avoid this issue.
Conclusion
Taking candid family photos is all about capturing the authentic, heartfelt moments that define family connections. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can create a comfortable atmosphere that allows your subjects to relax and be themselves. Remember, the best candid photos often come from letting the family interact naturally while you capture the magic unfolding in front of your lens. Happy shooting!
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