Family is not an important thing.
It’s everything.
— —Michael J.Fox
Do you want to take better family photos while staying at home?
In this post, I am sharing five practical tips that can help you take more meaningful and beautiful family photos during lockdown.
It is true that we may not enjoy being quarantined, but this season offers us a chance to slow down and find beauty in the everyday. As I mentioned in my last post, this moment in time is part of history now. One day, it will feel distant, and you will be glad you documented it.
Photography can become a way to embrace the changes around you. In my opinion, it helps us appreciate the little things and the people closest to us.
Here are five of the best photography tips I have received and followed over the past two years. They helped me improve my own work, and I hope they will help you too.
1. Learn the Rules of Composition
Understanding basic composition techniques will instantly elevate your photos.
Use the rule of thirds to balance your shots. Try adding elements like leading lines, framing, and negative space for more visual interest.
Do not be afraid of movement or a bit of grain. These add character and authenticity to your images.
2. Chase the Light
Light shapes every photo and adds mood, warmth, and depth.
Use natural window light for soft and flattering portraits indoors. Pay attention to how light moves through your home at different times of day. It can completely transform your images.
3. Change Your Perspective
A different point of view can make a huge difference.
This advice comes from photographer Esteban Gil and it truly works. Try these variations:
- Get close
- Step back
- Get low
- Shoot from above
Experimenting with perspective adds emotion and storytelling to your images.
4. Use Layers
Give your photos more dimension by including foreground and background elements.
You can do this by shooting through objects like leaves, windows, or toys. These natural frames create a sense of depth and invite the viewer into the moment.
5. Photograph Every Day
This is the most valuable advice I ever received. A friend once told me to take one good photo each day.
I did not start immediately, but when I committed to daily shooting and editing, everything changed. It helped me develop consistency, confidence, and creativity.
For more inspiration, follow some of my favorite family photographers.
If you follow these steps and get inspired by these incredible photographers, let me know and show me the results.
Get creative and have a lot of fun! Learn the rules, and then, break them. Even if you think they come out imperfect, they will be perfect mementos of these days and that's priceless.
Can't wait for all the magic you will make.
Stay safe. Stay home. Save lives.
