How to Take Family Portraits Outdoors

You can take advantage of the scenery when you take family portraits outdoors. Outdoor photographs are simple because you don't have to set up elaborate lighting. Sunlight will give your family portraits vibrant colors.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Pick a backdrop. A tree, wall or garden can serve as a backdrop. Make sure there is nothing unattractive in the background of your family portraits. Move items like trash cans if necessary.

2. Find the sun. You do not want the sun to be directly behind your family. This will cause shadows in your pictures. You also do not want the sun to be shining directly into your family's eyes. This will cause squinting.

3. Position your family so that the sun is in front or slightly to the side of them, but not shining directly in their eyes. Have shorter family members stand in front of taller family members.

4. Have everyone smile and close their eyes. Count to three out loud. When you say "three," everyone should open their eyes. This will ensure that no one is blinking in the portrait.

5. Shuffle everyone's position and take more pictures. You can get creative with your poses. Make sure you take as many pictures as possible. When photographing a group of people, it can take several shots before you find one that pleases everyone.

Tips & Warnings

• You do not need to use your flash when shooting outdoor family portraits.
• If you are photographing children, try to keep them entertained. Young children may throw fits if they have to stand still for a long time.