This is a question always asked and can have a big effect on the outcome of your photographs. It’s a good idea to have a few different outfits and bear a few things in mind :
1. Be comfortable!
The key to a good photograph is getting the subject to be relaxed. if your model is happy and comfy in what they are wearing you have a good chance of capturing them looking themselves.
2. Clothes for context
A persons outward appearance really does say a lot about who they are and what we think of them and the clothes worn convey meaning. Telling us something about the person. For this reason think carefully about what you’re trying to achieve in your images.
If you want to go crazy do so with bright colours and crazy patterns, if you are wanting a more formal shot dress accordingly.
3. Dark and plain clothes
A simple dark top really allows the focus to be on the persons face, another bonus of darker clothes is that they tend to be slimming.
Be careful with this though as depending on a persons complexion it can have negative effects – someone with a fair complexion can leave too much of a contrast whilst someone with dark skintones can leave you with not enough
4. Colours and patterns
Bright colours can be a great way to get some life and vibrance into your photos, especially with children.
If your a photographing a group be careful not to clash colours or patterns
Different shades and tones of colours can work well throughout a group leaving you looking in sync with each other without having fallen into the boyband trap of all wearing the same outfit.
5. One last thing
Remember if you are planning on showing these photos off on the walls for a few years you don’t want them to end up looking dated so consider that in your style choice too!
Have fun experimenting, always remember the best way to find things out and see what does and doesn’t work is by trying it for yourself. If you do get any great results or maybe things that haven’t worked quite so well post them on here so everyone else can see.
Here’s a few tips to keep in mind whilst taking photos of your family this summer:
1. Think in groups
Having a large number of people to photograph at one time can be quite a daunting prospect. Simply break the larger group down into smaller pairs and groups of three’s when composing your shot
2. Use different levels
By placing different members of the group at different height levels you help to add more interest into your frame.
3. Colour
You don’t all need to be wearing the same outfit but having theme running throughout can really help the overall flow. This can be along the lines of pastel, bold or vibrant colours etc.
4. Use the shade
Shaded areas such as under tree cover or the back side of the building can really help to diffuse the harsh midday sun leaving you with better results.
5. Have fun and be spontaneous!
Try something different to your ordinary formal posing. Get everybody walking, running, dancing or even jumping in the air. These type of shots capture a genuine expression and the variety really helps keep everybody interested and having fun!
1. Keep it Simple
The more complex the scene is the less likely you are going to get a great shot. Try to keep backgrounds and foregrounds uncluttered and where possible work with natural light. If you have to use artificial light try to keep it simple using as few lights as possible.
2. Be Ready
Be as prepared as you can before your subject arrives. Have your camera and any lighting you may be using all set up and ready to go. Scout out your location so you know where you want to shoot. Take some test shots before they arrive, you don’t want to keep them waiting and you catch them while they are still fresh.
3. Shoot into the light
Using the sun as a backlight can create great effects when shooting outdoors. It adds interest, depth and can also help bring colour into your photos. When doing this you need to use a lens hood and also play around with using fill in flash.
4. Change the angle the you shoot from
Shooting from slightly below your subjects eyeline it can be much more flattering. This works for both sitting and standing, if using studio lights try to lighting the subject from slightly below this line too.
