Industry Insights

Great family portrait photography -

Written by Staff Writer | Jul 11, 2011 4:59:39 AM

The best option for great family portraits is to have an outdoor shoot using natural
light which is always flattering. A park, beach or a nice yard would be the perfect setting.

If you do prefer your shoot to be indoors, a studio light and backdrop can be brought along to your home to help set up a mini studio.

At Global Sanctuary Photography we do a lot of sensual shoots with both men and women and it’s great to do these shoots in the privacy of your own home. It’s not about ‘baring all’, it’s about showing hints of skin in a beautiful and sensual manner. I have a philosophy that if you can’t show the photos to your grandma, you shouldn’t have them!

A good photographer will find that perfect angle and light to make you look your very best. They also have the ability to make you feel at ease in front of a camera.

6 tips for taking great family portraits:

  • Avoid stripes and spots and heavy patterns in what you wear for your shoot.
  • Wear basic colours such as white, black, blue and red.
  • Ensure your neckline is flattering.
  • Usually a v-neck does the trick.
  • Make sure you show what parts you like and hide what you don’t, so if you think you have fat arms….cover them up!
  • Makeup should be flat and matt and not shimmery or shiny.
  • Hair should be smooth and sleek to maximize shine.
  • Be yourself, relax and look right into the camera and most importantly, have fun!

Organise your family portrait now

About Author Sue Taylor

Sue Taylor is Photographer/Editor/Artistic Director and Managing Director of Global Sanctuary. She loves taking images of people and finding the perfect style, light and composition for everyone. Sue has been fortunate enough to work across Europe in 2008 shooting images for the internationally released book Classical Destinations Series II and the companion DVD through SONY/BMG.

When it comes to weddings, Sue believes the reason Global Sanctuary’s wedding images are so magnificent and unique is because they are not ‘traditional’ wedding photographers. They shoot each and every wedding with its own unique style and individuality for each couple. It’s all about superb images and great friendly service.