After my first long-term relationship broke up, I was single…
Strike A Pose: 19 Fun, Fabulous Family Portrait Ideas
“Strike a pose, there’s nothing to it.” – Madonna
When Madonna says you have to let your body go with the flow, it’s all about relaxing, channelling your inner ‘vogue’ and losing your inhibitions.
Dancing aside, we think this is also a perfect way to approach photoshoots. While many photographers have a wonderful ability to make you feel comfortable – whatever the setting – it’s also important that everyone in your family has the freedom to express themselves.
All you need is your own imagination with 19 family portrait ideas that let you decide where you want to strike a pose – at home, outdoors, in a studio or on holidays.
In the comfort of home
In this case home photography doesn’t necessarily mean DIY selfies, it simply means arranging a photoshoot by a professional photographer or competent friend in the comfort of your own home.
While you may feel inclined to choose someone you know to take such intimate shots, you might be surprised at how unobtrusive professional photographers can be even when they’re actively directing a shot.
At home, magic just happens, particularly when young children and babies are involved – simply precious. That’s the beauty of photographing in such a setting.
1. Good morning, world
From Peta Mazey
2. Spontaneous
From The Little Umbrella
Gather in the great outdoors
If you’re not the outdoors type, don’t suddenly think that arranging a photoshoot with the whole family is going to be a romantic experience. If there’s snow involved, it will be slippery and wet. If it’s the peak of Summer, the heat will be brutal.
To make this work, the whole family has to love the outdoors. If you or your kids are more inclined to frighten than smile when a bird flies by, it’s not going to work.
But if you love it, the creative possibilities are endless. Check out the shadow play, reenactment and sunset ideas below. Exquisite don’t you think?
Outdoor photoshoots are also a wonderful way to build a collection of photos for canvas collages. You can discover how to make a collage here.
3. Seasonal favourite
4. Use props
From The BMC Report
5. Keep it simple
From Mama and Mou
6. Build a collage
7. Shadow play
From Pinterest/Captured By Carrie Photography & Product Shop
8. Reenact famous photo
9. Sunset dreams
Control your environment in a studio
While professional photographers are increasingly encouraging their clients to step outside the studio to capture amazing family photos, there is still a time and a place for studio controlled portraiture.
Studio photography doesn’t have to mean ‘boring’ or ‘cold’ or ‘soft lens’. Striking the right pose can achieve as much warmth as any other setting.
The key is to use height or layers like the edgy examples #11 and #12 or convey close bonds with plenty of cuddles. Just look at those arms and hands all over the place in #10. Very touching results.
10. Big hugs
11. Create Layers
12. Lie down
Hooray we’re on holiday
Invite your photographer on holidays! Not even kidding. If you’re heading off on a big family trip, find a professional photographer local to that area and get them to join you for the day.
Why should beach and snow shots be the sole domain of models? No reason at all. Holidays are the happiest times when the whole family is relaxed and having fun. What better time to capture those moments of joy forever?
And if you’re over photos of your little ones sitting on Santa’s knees, think outside the shopping centre queue. Capture the spirit of Christmas in an inspired place striking a cool pose.
13. Summer holiday
14. Winter holiday
15. Kiss under mistletoe
From Lipgloss and Crayons
Out of this world
When it comes to family portrait photography, the world is your oyster. Find a daring photographer and give them a run for their money.
These ideas below are clever, courageous and crafty. Sure they require a risk, but doesn’t everything awesome in life?
16. Make a splash
17. Love spell
18. Comic strip
From Paging Supermom
19. Might as well jump
From Aaron Blumenshine Photography
