A picture speaks a thousand words. One-click captures a memory that lasts a lifetime, passing through many eyes showing the emotion.
Looking back on pictures is an activity shared by many generations. Staring at those we love smiling back. But, we all have to admit that some pictures shouldn't exist, in this lifetime or another.
Whether it’s the awkward smile- and pose, there is just something about it that makes us page a little quicker in hopes of skipping that image.
To help (hopefully) avoid this - we have gathered some tips on what to do when taking a family picture this festive season.
Let us start off with the equipment:
Now don't purchase the top-of-the-line gear just yet, unless you’re really looking to grow a skill or pursue a career. In this case, your phone will work just as well.
Experts recommend a tripod with a phone attachment works best. However, it is inconvenient, especially if it is a last-minute situation (as most things are nowadays).
This is where we get a little creative. You can create a makeshift stand using everyday products. It’s important that the camera stays still while you take your photo. Make sure you place it between something so that it doesn’t fall over.
Our creativity extended to placing the phone in between books.
Setting the scene:
Location:
Do you have a favourite spot in the garden? Is there a place around your home that carries significance? Or maybe there is a space in the house where if the sun hits it just right, it throws a reflection that just looks blissful and warm.
Choosing your spot adds a layer of depth and will carry weight down the line when looking back at your photos.
Timing:
It matters. The ideal time to take a photo is either - in the early morning light, a couple of hours after the sun has come out. When there is a bit of a crisp freshness to the air. Or alternatively, a couple of hours before sunset.
Although preferred - don’t take photos when the sun is at its highest, between 11am - 3pm (daylight savings may change this ). This is when the sun creates harsh lighting. It also sits directly above you, making unwanted shadows and high contrasting images.
You must be wondering why the morning or afternoon is better. As the sun rises from an angle, it captures light differently. It adds dimension with shadows. It also has a softer, kinder sun, with less contrast. Take our word for it - this lighting will produce better-looking photos.
Your time to shine:
First and foremost - please have fun with this. We understand you want the perfect family picture, but perfect is boring. We all have quirks that make us unique, so play on those to create a photo that will best show who your family is.
Let’s add some character. Tell a joke before the photo, or play tag beforehand. Magical chairs (minus the chairs) by switching up the positions. It creates motion, and overthinking it will kill the vibe and it clearly shows.
Below are a couple of things to consider when striking your pose:
For those standing on the outside of the photo -
Start by standing facing the camera.
Turn your body slightly towards your family.
This will dependant whether you are female or male:
Female:
With your leg, extend it slightly, right in front of you.
Take it out (away from your family) for a one-second count.
Slightly lift your heel - so that it’s barely off the ground and the pressure is more on the ball of your foot.
Place the loose hand on your hips, reversed (your thumb facing towards the front and your fingers touching your back).
Male:
With your leg, extend it slightly right in front of you. No need to tilt that foot forward unless you would like to.
You can put your hand in your pocket or loop your thumb through your belt loop.
For those standing in the middle, try and create an angle by lightly turning your body to the side. You can also put your leg in front of you, slightly tilting your heel.
What we’re trying to do is to create angles with your body. We understand that you want to pose, but don’t overthink it.
Clothes coordination:
If you want to coordinate what you’re wearing, especially with the festive red and green, another way to look complementary is by having one piece having the colour in. Or, if you would like everyone to be dressed in the same colour, just know that there will be different colour variations.
And there you have it - a couple of things to consider when taking a photo this festive season with your family.
This year was tough on everyone. Whether it was physically, mentally, emotionally, or spiritually. Now is the best time to bond and make some everlasting memories.