How to take great family pictures

Family pictures are amazing..to look at! Taking them though is not for the faint hearted!

Here are some helpful tips and advice for a smooth session (or smoother, that is)

1. Arrange People in Layers

One of the best ways to make sure everyone is visible is to arrange family members in layers. The taller people can stand in the back, and shorter people can sit or kneel in the front. This creates a nice, balanced look where no one is hidden!

2. Try a "V" Shape

A great way to organize family members is by creating a "V" shape. Have the parents (or tallest people) stand at the outer sides, with the kids in the middle, forming a nice triangle. This draws attention to the family as a whole and looks natural.

3. Be Careful with Heights

You want everyone to be in the picture, so make sure that no one is standing too far behind someone else. If a family member is shorter, consider having them sit on a step, a chair, or even a slight incline so they’re not hidden behind taller people.

4. Use Sitting and Standing Poses

Not everyone has to be standing. Some people can sit while others stand around them. It helps mix things up and makes the photo feel more relaxed and less stiff. For example, one person could sit in the front, while the others stand behind them in a loose formation.

5. Make Sure Everyone’s Faces Are Visible

You want everyone’s face to be visible, so avoid having people stand directly in front of each other. Slightly angle the people toward each other, so their faces are facing the camera. It makes the photo feel more connected.

6. Give People Some Space

Don’t make the family members stand too close together—it can look cramped. You want a little space between each person, so they don’t look squished or uncomfortable. But make sure they’re still close enough to look like a family!

7. Keep Things Natural

Instead of stiff, posed positions, encourage the family to relax and be natural. You could have them lean in toward each other, hold hands, or wrap arms around each other. These kinds of poses create warmth and connection in the picture.

8. Avoid Distracting Backgrounds

Make sure the background doesn’t distract from the family. Try to choose a simple backdrop that doesn’t take the attention away from the people in the photo. You want the family to be the main focus!

9. Use Different Angles

If you’re taking a lot of photos, try changing the angle a bit. Take some shots from slightly above, some from eye-level, and maybe even a few from the side. It gives variety to your photos and can show different sides of the family.

10. Have Fun and Be Patient

Finally, make sure everyone is having fun! A family photo should show the bond between people, so encourage smiles, laughter, and love. Don’t rush—take your time to get everyone in the right spot and enjoy the moment.

With these tips, you’ll be able to position the family in a way that looks natural and beautiful. It’ll make for a perfect memory to look back on!