Much like couples photography, family photo poses are all about capturing the love and connection between your subjects. And just like engagement photos and other group photo sessions, it’s important to keep in mind that not every family will look the same! While a blended family may want portraits to highlight how they’ve come together, another client may want to showcase their family across multiple generations. It’s important to come prepared for any situation!
With family photography, you’re helping them memorialize a sweet moment in time with their little ones (pups included!), so the pressure is definitely on – especially if you’re capturing multiple children or pets! Fortunately, having some photo poses for families up your sleeve can make all the difference in the world. Keep reading to learn the 5 poses we recommend for every family photographer for better photo sessions, happier clients and a gorgeous portfolio.
The family embrace
One of the most common family photo poses is the big embrace! It’s perfect for families with children of all ages, and you can include extended family members, too.
Have the family stand close together with their arms around each other. You can also incorporate props, like a family heirloom or even a bouquet of flowers!
The walking pose
Capture the natural interaction between family members with the walking pose!
For this shot, have the family hold hands and walk toward the camera. This pose works best in an outdoor setting – think the park or beach! And be sure to bring some fun props, like a picnic basket or even a kite.
Butterfly kisses
Photo poses for families are all about capturing those precious moments of togetherness, and they’re also an amazing opportunity to showcase the sweet moments, too.
For this photography pose, instruct the parents to sit down with their legs crossed, with the kids on their laps facing them. Then, have the children give their parents butterfly kisses (little eyelash flutters) on the cheek!
Get silly
We’re all about aww-inducing family photography, but this photo session is also a time to capture a family’s playful side!
For a more casual photography pose, have the gang stand close together and make their silliest faces. You’ll end up with a fun family portrait that they’ll treasure for years to come. (Pro tip: this is a must for younger families – they’ll love making a funny face!)
The family picnic
This posing idea is simple: bring some picnic props (or just a comfortable blanket!) and have the entire family sit or lay together.
This shot works best in a gorgeous outdoor setting (like the beach or a lush field) and perfectly captures your subjects’ genuine happiness and excitement.
Younger kids can lay or sit in a parent’s lap for a sweet, snuggly shot, and you can even capture a group shot from above by getting every family member to lay down in a circle!
Get more family photoshoot inspiration
While these are some of our favorite family photo poses, we’re just getting started! If you’re aiming to add even more photo poses for families, be sure and download the free Unscripted App. You’ll receive endless photography poses and prompts, so you’ll never run out of the creative fuel to keep capturing those precious family moments (and keep your photography business going strong!)
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