Behind every stiff, formal, awkward family portrait (and, let’s be honest, at least half of all the family portraits you’ve ever seen or been a part of fall into one of those categories) is a photo shoot fraught with drama, uncomfortable clothes, and stress. However, your next family portrait session doesn’t have to be a bad memory. Today, Dallas portrait photographer Doug Davis shares a few pro-tips on making the portrait-taking process pleasant, relaxed, and rewarding.

Embrace Informality

There’s a reason why posed studio portraits seem dated: they are! Dad, Mom, and all the kids standing stiffly in front of a generic background, smiling awkwardly at the camera have become so passe that hipsters actually take these types of portraits to advertise their sense of irony. Don’t be the family the hipsters roll their eyes at; instead, embrace a more natural, relaxed approach to lighting, setting, and concept.

Work Closely with Your Photographer . . . Before the Shoot

You might have a specific idea in mind or have seen just the perfect portrait on Pinterest. As talented as your photographer is, he’s not a mind-reader. Your satisfaction with your finished product depends on clearly communicating your vision to your photographer during a face-to-face or phone consultation before the shoot. Even if you have no idea what you want, a consultation provides the perfect opportunity for your photographer to suggest ideas based on your family’s interests or personalities.

Don’t Shoot Hungry (or Sleepy)

A family portrait shoot will take at least an hour. Don’t be dumb. Eat before the shoot and, if children will be involved, have snacks and water on hand. Furthermore, if young children will be taking part, schedule your shoot for about an hour after naptime to avoid the inevitable meltdown.

Go with the Flow

The best family portraits are ones that capture those moments between family members that can’t be staged. Maybe somebody farts and the photographer catches everyone’s reactions. Maybe some passing ducks catch everyone’s attention at an outdoor shoot. Rather than attempt to micromanage every aspect of a shoot, just go with it. Your family portrait, and the good memories surrounding it, will be worth it.

About Doug Davis and D-Squared Studios

Doug Davis has been producing professional, engaging videos and product, food, and lifestyle photography from his Dallas studio for over 20 years. We’d love to discuss how video can play a vital role in your dynamic marketing strategy. D-Squared Studios is located at 4312 Elm Street, Dallas, Texas 75226. Contact our Dallas portrait studio at (214)746-6336 or doug.davis@d2studios.net to schedule a consultation.