Tips On Photographing Family / Friend Groups

Tips On Photographing Family / Friend Groups

Gear:

Whatever you have, this is all about posing people, but to keep a flattering perspective, pick nothing too wide. A lens such as the M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 45mm 1:1.8, which is compatible with theE-M5, E-P3, E-PL3 and E-PL5, is perfect for capturing portraits with background blur and vivid contrast thanks to its fast aperture. 

Technique:

Individuals or groups of two or three shouldn't pose too much of a problem as a general guide, get them doing something or reacting to each other , a less formal feel and a more relaxed picture will always look better than a line of people staring at the camera.Sometimes it's worth going in really close to capture a natural smile  or to crop out an unwanted background.Taking group shots is never easy , both in terms of putting a group together and getting them to relax. On top of that family members rarely enjoy being photographed, or when they're together in a group, want to give up time to be posed. The result is that as a photographer, you often feel that you have to rush it. Instead, if the family have agreed to a photo, do them the honour of doing your best.

Group portraiture is never easy, often daunting, but when you're photographing family members you are working with people you know well, so you should be able to relax with them, and they with you. 90% of portraiture is in direction, so talking to your family or friends will give you excellent results. One of the most important guidelines , DON'T use the bad ones , all group sessions will yield good and bad pictures ,if you show your family the good ones, they will be more willing to pose for you the next time ,f you show them the bad ones , even if you think they're funny, your next attempts may me met with less enthusiasm!