6 Tips to Take Your Own Stunning Spring Family Photos
A Photographers Tips to Take Your Own Family Photos
Spring family photos are always my favorite and I wasn’t about to let a quarantine stand in my way from capturing these precious moments and you shouldn’t either! We had such gorgeous weather in Columbus this weekend and I was sure to take full advantage of the sunshine! I would typically set up a session with another photographer friend to capture these photos, but due to Covid-19 it is no longer a safe option. My family and I are doing everything in our power to flatten the curve by staying home, but visiting metro parks while maintaining social distance is an amazing way to escape some of the cabin fever setting in.
I didn’t want to miss out on these spring blooms this year, so I grabbed my tripod and went to work. I’ve compiled a list below of advice to help you do the same! We threw on some clothes we already had in our closet, I trimmed the girls bangs, and we gave Jeremy a DIY haircut that morning! We had such a lovely time exploring Inniswood and hunting for the blooms! Most of the gardens are still dormant, but we were able to find this stunning white magnolia tree that made all my dreams come true!
I will forever cherish these photos— it was hilarious attempting to get three kiddos to look at a camera on a tripod without anyone behind to yell and dance and be silly to get their attention. However, I think we were successful in capturing our crazy and silly family in a genuine way with tickle fights, silly faces, and the occasional grumpy stare down from Parker. If you don’t have a tripod no worries at all! just get creative on things to rest you camera or phone on— maybe a nearby rock wall, bring a step stool, or a pile of books!
I can’t recommend enough to get outside during this uncertain time! The sunshine is SO good for the soul and all the extra vitamin D really cheered everyone up! Also, if you are a creative, don’t let this time pass by without indulging in your art! If that means picking up your camera, paint brush, fondant, gardening sheers, or yarn we can still create, grow and learn! Getting my camera back in my hands was like a breath of fresh air and sparked that creative fire I’ve been so desperately missing.
I hope everyone is well and staying safe! Let this post inspire you to get out and capture some photos of your own family! Even if you don’t have a professional camera, your phone will be perfect! I created a few tips below for people who want to capture beautiful spring photos of their very own!
Six Tips and Tricks to Capture Your Own Beautiful Spring Family Photos
Use what you have! People often ask me for camera recommendations and my response is typically whatever camera you have and will use! Sometimes those larger cameras are a pain to lug around while you also have kids in tow, so just use your cell phone!
Search for nice even light— if you are not a professional photographer my best advice is to find some shade! This will cut back on lens flair, avoid squinty faces and harsh shadows. Find a location that has consistent light so there won’t be any bright hot spots to combat.
Look for a simple backdrop. You don’t want the background to distract from what’s important— your sweet family! Think a blooming bush or plain neutral colored wall!
Incorporate things that your kids already love to do!! This will make the entire experience fun for everyone! Picking flowers, blowing bubbles, reading a story are all great options!
Don’t be afraid to pack some bribes for a smile if need be— for my girls I always bring along some candy, fruit snacks, or crackers. Just be sure it’s not going to stain their mouth a bright color or melt everywhere! Choose strategically.
Set realistic expectations and keep it short and fun! You only need a FEW nice photos— it’s OK if you don’t walk away with a full gallery of perfectly styled images! This is just to document this time in your life. Snag a few shots and be grateful for them. No stressing allowed! :) I find it very helpful to have a conversation with my kiddos (and my husband!) about what we are going to do and explain why it’s important to me! :)
I hope these 6 tricks help! As as a reminder— don’t forget to get in the photos with your family! Set the self timer and run into the frame to get photos of everyone together! Then pass off the camera to your partner and capture some photos of just you and your kids. You deserve to be in the photos too and will never regret having those moments captured.
Always feel free to reach out with any questions you may have!
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