How to take better family photos with your phone
Let’s be honest- having professional photos taken is a luxury and it’s not always realistic to indulge in that luxury every time there is a milestone, event, or just really good day. Everyone knows how to snap a couple of pictures with their smartphone. It’s simple. But how do you go from a simple selfie to almost professional looking photos? In this article I’ll give you some tips and tricks for leveling up your family photo game.
Tools of the trade
You certainly can get yourself a little entry level camera but that’s not really needed with smartphones being what they are today. If you are going to stick with your phone, though, it might be a good idea to check out some videos on how to adjust the aperture, shutter speed, and ISO in order to get your exposure (lighting) looking it’s best. Most phones make it easy these days and include a “Portrait” mode.
While a pro camera isn’t necessary, a tripod isn’t a bad idea if you want to include yourself in the photos. Don’t forget to set that self-timer too!
Lighting
One of the absolute most important factors in photography is lighting. I’m sure that you’ve noticed how photos taken in indirect sunlight or closer to sunrise or sunset come out more flattering than photos taken in the bright, direct, midday sun. A trick to test your lighting is to hold your hand up in front of you (like if you were telling something to “Stop”). Then walk around or turn in a circle until the lighting on your hand is soft and flattering, then set up your camera facing in that direction. If you have to shoot in direct sunlight try to have your camera towards the sun and your subjects facing away from it so you don’t have to squint with the sun in your eyes. You can also try different angles to place the tree line or a building as a sun shield.
For indoor sessions try to place your family close to a window or open door to get as much natural light as possible. If you have the interior lights turned on just watch out for color cast (colors that change the look/tone of skin in photos) that is created by items in the room or the lights themselves.
Angles
Don’t be afraid to play around with different angles. Placing your tripod low to the ground or having the camera up higher and pointed down can give you more flattering looks or just add some diversity and interest to your shots.
Prompting instead of posing
Some of my favorite photos were taking using prompts instead of poses. A pose is when you are placed a certain way for a photo… think like middle school picture day style. It’s very “okay now on the count of three look at the camera and smile!”. A prompt is more of a guide to get the look you’re going for. Here are some of my favorites:
On the count of three give your biggest fake laugh
Look at the sibling with the stinkiest toes!
Whisper a secret in your brother/sister’s ear
Tickle fight
You get the idea. Prompts allow for more movement and emotion which will give you better photos.
Outfits
If you know ahead of time that you are going to be trying to take your own photos, put some thought into what you are going to wear. You don’t want to have a bunch of contrasting patterns or distracting T-shirt graphics. But don’t go overboard, you want to be comfortable and stay true to yourself too. Usually, less is more- keep it simple.
Backgrounds
Everyone knows that if you are taking a picture you want to have an interesting background. But pay attention to the details. Look around and see if there are any distractions that can be moved out of the way. Also, be careful about placing any trees directly behind you (in the pictures it will look like the tree is growing out of your head.). Finally, don’t forget about the angles. Use different camera heights to make your backgrounds look more interesting or less distracting.
Professional photos are called professional for a reason. They just have a look and feel to them that is hard to replicate if you don’t have the proper equipment or know exactly what you are doing. But you can create beautiful images of your loved ones all the same.
