Family Photos 101: Posing Tips for Large Families

1. Arrange your family creatively. Start by positioning your family in one or two rows. To create a more dynamic and relaxed photo, encourage everyone to place a hand on their hip, gently cross their arms, or tuck one hand in their pocket. Be sure to place shorter adults and children in the front to ensure everyone is visible.

2. Highlight the main subjects. Always position the key subjects of your photo in the center, especially if grandparents are included—they should never be at the ends. If there’s a new baby in the family, it’s wise to place them near the center for the best results.

3. Incorporate different levels. Bring some excitement to your images by utilizing any stairs, ledges, or chairs that you have available. Arranging family members at varying heights using these structures or props can add depth and interest to your photographs.

4. Capture candid moments. Once you feel you have enough posed shots, initiate some conversation and fun to allow your photographer to catch candid moments of your family. Consider having your family walk toward the camera from a distance for a natural look.

5. Stick to one camera. Whether you’re taking the photos yourself or working with a professional, it’s crucial to use only one camera for the session. If a second person is shooting alongside, people may be confused about where to look, which can compromise the quality of the shot.

We hope these tips help you feel more prepared for your upcoming family photo session. Feel free to reach out to Locations Photography for any additional guidance or to discuss other aspects of your shoot.