Candid Family Shots - Tips

[jake337]

Yeah just follow them around for a while at the park or something. This is easy money yo. but make sure to take them out at a good time of the day.

I'll take the liberty of assuming from that statement that you've never actually done this. This is most definitely NOT easy; in fact, it is probably in general, a lot more difficult than a studio shoot, especially if small children are involved.

Yup. It's hard to get candid shots to have that posed portrait look while still retaining its candid feeling. I would get as many different "posed" scenarios thought up and go over them with the parents.

The kids may run around rampant but if the parents are on the same page as you they may be able to get the kids in "order".

Try to pose as much as possible without actually posing, if that makes sense.

 

[Robin Usagani]

Here is a sample.. it is mixed with posed a bit. You can make just an everyday life at home look very intriguing if you know what you are doing.

Family Portraits from Lugano, Swiss - FM Forums

 

[Compaq]

It's not that hard. It's easier if you have a compact camera, of course (as they make less noise). We all have the most weird postures when we don't know when we're being photographed. My brother got on of me one morning, totally awesome expression.

Just remember to think about and be aware of your background and lighting.

If you want to capture the expression of the person when respond to "hey, [name]", do this:

- set camera to continuous burst mode
- focus on person/victim not seeing you
- say his/her's name
- shoot frames when the person has turned, looking at you

Often, they have nice expressions. If you've got a decent background and a nice side lighting from a window or something, then it might be a nice shot. Of course, Americans put their sofa in the middle of the room. Total waste of space Put it against a wall with a window

It's great fun. Just be aware of taking shots of your mother. It's likely she want you to delete them LOL