Events such as birthdays and vacations are occasions when you may want to photograph the entire family together for memory’s sake as these photos will likely become your most valuable treasures. Here, I will show you the 4 key points that even beginners can use to easily take great family photos. (Photos by: Yuji Ogura, Edited by:Etica)

Achieve a natural photo-finish with Bright natural light + Positive exposure compensation

As the shutter speed increases when the location is sufficiently bright, human subjects are less likely to be blurred, allowing for beautiful shots. When the shot is brightened, the impression of the overall photo also becomes brighter. Increase the exposure compensation towards the positive end to make the shot brighter.

Tip 1: Use a white wall as the background!

Shooting in front of a white wall makes the main subject stand out. Have the subject face front towards the camera and check if the light shines down beautifully on the subject without casting any shadows. If a shadow appears, use a reflector to compensate for the light and eliminate the shadow. Simply by slanting the subject’s body a little, a smooth and lovely silhouette will result. Don’t forget to make sure that the hair and clothes are tidy as well.

Tip 2: Show how close knit the family is

To bring out the closeness between family members, emphasize something that they share in common to serve as the focus in the photo. By having the subjects strike the same pose, wear matching clothes, or use a favourite prop, the shot will turn out to be consistent and well-defined.

Tip 3: Think of a purposeful use for empty space

With the blue sky in the background, I created an empty space in front of the subjects’ line of sight to suggest the idea of a pleasant future for the family. Take the shot in direct light so as to make the sky appear more blue. When an empty space is created, it’s also easier to turn the photo into a postcard and allow space or arrange the layout for text.

Tip 4: Capture everyday life front and centre!

When your family is at home, you can photograph them at their most relaxed. When capturing a slice of life, take note of the horizontal and vertical axes and face the subject front and centre without tilting the camera at a low angle so as to create a shot that is somewhat different from those found in street photography. By also including other objects such as the subject’s favourite toy, it will make the shot much more memorable when you look back at it in time to come.