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This article is from March 23, 2010, and is no longer current.

10 Tips for Shooting Successful Family Portraits

Natalie Johnson has published a handy guide to family portrait photos on the Digital Photography School Web site. Here’s a sampling of her advice:
“Eye contact isn’t always essential… some shots which intentionally lack it can be more intriguing and relaxed. So rather than force the subjects to look continuously at the camera get them to look in a variety of directions”.
“Experiment by having half the group stand and half sit. By splitting the group onto different levels, the viewer is offered a more dynamic image forcing the eye to jump around the scene.”
“Incorporating motion into group shots develops interest and instantly relaxes your subjects and therefore viewers. To freeze action shoot between 1/125 to 1/500; you may need to crank up ISO in low light or use flash if necessary.”
To read the entire article, go to “10 Tips to Take Great Family Portraits.”

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