Tips For Getting Your Family Ready for Portraits That Reflect Your Unique Style

Family portraits are more than just pictures—they’re lasting memories that tell your family’s story. The key to capturing that authentic connection lies in preparation. It’s about preserving memories, showcasing your family’s personality, and creating a timeless keepsakes. Preparing for a family portrait can feel overwhelming, but with the right tips, you can make the experience enjoyable and the results stunning. This guide offers practical advice on the best time of day for natural lighting, outfit choices that bring harmony, and location ideas that highlight your family’s unique character.

Choosing the Best Time of Day for Natural Lighting

Lighting can make or break a family portrait. Natural light is often the most flattering and creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Here’s how to pick the best time for your shoot:

• Golden Hour

The hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset are known as the golden hour. During this time, sunlight is soft, warm, and diffused, reducing harsh shadows and giving skin a natural glow. This light flatters all skin tones and adds a magical quality to photos.

Couple portrait taken during golden hour

• Avoid Midday Sun

Shooting between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. can cause strong shadows and squinting. The sun is high and harsh, which can create unflattering contrasts on faces and backgrounds. This can be combated by using a powerful flash which D Jensen Photography uses if you choose to book during the mid day.

Mid-day portrait session on a bright sunny day

• Cloudy Days Are Your Friend

Overcast skies act like a giant softbox, diffusing sunlight evenly. This creates gentle, even lighting that works well for outdoor portraits without the risk of harsh shadows.

Autumn family portrait on a cloudy Autumn day

• Indoor Lighting Tips

If you prefer indoor portraits, position your family near large windows with plenty of natural light. Avoid overhead lighting, which can cast unflattering shadows.

Portrait of a young man, just using the window light as a soft sidelight.

Coordinating Outfits That Complement Each Other and the Setting

Outfit choices play a big role in how your family portrait looks. Coordinated clothing helps create a cohesive image without everyone wearing the exact same thing. Here are some tips to get it right:

• Choose a Colour Palette

Pick 2 to 4 colours that work well together and suit the location. For example, soft neutrals like beige, cream, and light blue work beautifully in outdoor settings. Richer tones like burgundy, navy, and mustard can add warmth for Autumn portraits.

• Mix Textures and Patterns

Combine solids with subtle patterns like stripes or small florals. Avoid large logos or busy prints that distract from faces. Textures like knit sweaters, denim, or lace add depth and interest.

• Dress for Comfort and Style

Make sure everyone feels comfortable in their clothes. If kids are fidgeting or adults feel stiff, it will show in the photos. Choose outfits that fit well and allow natural movement.

• Consider the Setting

Match your outfits to the environment. For a beach shoot, light and airy fabrics in whites and pastels work well. For a rustic outdoor setting, earth tones and cosy layers fit the mood.

• Plan Ahead

Lay out all outfits together before the shoot to see how they look as a group. This helps avoid clashing colours or styles.

Selecting Locations That Highlight Your Family’s Personality

The right location can add meaning and beauty to your family portraits. Think about places that reflect your family’s interests, lifestyle, or favourite spots.

• Parks and Gardens

These offer natural backdrops with greenery, flowers, and open spaces. They work well for families who enjoy the outdoors and want a relaxed, natural look.

• Urban Settings

City streets, murals, or architectural landmarks can add an energetic, modern vibe. Choose locations with clean backgrounds or interesting textures like brick walls or staircases.

• Home Environment

Your own home or backyard can be a meaningful setting. It shows your family’s everyday life and comfort zone, creating intimate and authentic portraits.

• Beach or Lakeside

Water adds a calming element and beautiful reflections. Early morning or late afternoon light enhances the mood here.

• Special Places

Think about locations tied to family traditions, hobbies, or memories. A favourite hiking trail, a local farm, or a cosy café can make portraits more personal.

Embracing Your Family’s Unique Style and Preferences

Every family is different, and your portraits should reflect what makes yours special. Here are ways to bring your personality into the shoot:

• Incorporate Hobbies or Interests

If your family loves music, bring instruments. If you enjoy reading, include books. These props add storytelling elements.

• Show Your Connection

Encourage natural interactions like holding hands, hugging, or laughing together. Genuine moments create the most memorable photos.

• Be Yourself

Don’t feel pressured to follow trends or expectations. Whether your style is casual, formal, playful, or quirky, let it shine through.

• Communicate with Your Photographer

Share your ideas, preferences, and any concerns before the shoot. A good photographer will help guide you and make you feel comfortable.

I hope you found this article helpful when preparing for your family portrait session and if you have any questions please feel free to reach out.