Family portraits…they are a changin’! Gone are the days that we are getting the whole family together dressed in their Sunday best to sit still for three hours while little Jimmy turns his head another 20° to the left, and then another 30° back to the right. As photographic trends are changing most families are opting for more casual, personality-driven photos that really represent the individuality and style of the family.  

<h3>Here’s a few ideas to make your family portraits a little bit more modern:</h3> 

<h3>Shoot Inside Your Home</h3> 

Home is where the heart is right? More and more families are having their photos taken at home to show the family in their own surroundings. This is also a great way to get casual, comfortable photos of your family “in their element”. Just find a nice place in your house, or even outside in the yard or garden. Natural lighting is important for casual family photographs, and photos taken indoors by a window with good light with give a soft, “homely” feel. 

<h3>Be Candid</h3>

We already know that families are moving away from the stiffly posed photos of yesteryear and opting for more candid, “real” photos. Try to plan activities for the whole family to get involved in, creating a fun, relaxed scenario. Opt for places that are meaningful to the family, and interact with each other in a comfortable, casual, light-hearted manor. Someone in the family is sure to know a good joke! 

<h3>Dress Casually</h3> 

It’s become a little bit more modern to dress the family in casual, everyday clothing that is complimentary rather than all family members wearing the same thing. That’s not to say you should let everyone choose their own clothes, as your young son might turn up in his Superman pajamas and your daughter in her favorite princess dress, but allowing each family member a little bit of individuality in their clothing will mean they are ultimately more comfortable and at ease in the photograph. Try coordinating clothes with a few common elements or colors for a polished, “together” feel. 

<h3>Use The Environment</h3> 

The environment around your house or your city is a great backdrop for casual family photos. Urban environments provide interest and quirky style, where outdoor environments provide a softer, more natural style. If you opt for a cityscape look for interesting stairwells, brick walls, train tracks, secret passages, and fun sculptures to set up your photo. If you’re going for an outdoor shoot in natural surroundings, open grassy fields, interesting trees, sandy or rocky beaches and small hills to climb make great backdrops. Also think about bringing a few props, maybe a parasol, hats, sunglasses, or something small to sit on – a few simple props will go a long way! 

Getting modern, casual family photographs doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. With a little bit of planning and creativity, you can get great shots that reflect your family’s style and individuality. Finally, work with a photographer that whom you feel comfortable and at ease with, and show them the type of photos you would like before committing! 
