As a London family photographer, I’m always being asked by friends, families and clients for tips on how to take better photos.
For my clients, the photoshoot itself is a huge learning opportunity. I know parents walk out with a little knowledge not only about photography but also about baby soothing and caring. Especially during a newborn session.
Most of us carry a camera around in the shape of our mobile phones. In fact, you could say people take more photographs now than ever before. However, unfortunately, the quality of those images has never been lower! Think about how many photographs you take of your family every day. Probably you have 2-3 identical copies for every image. And they will never be printed or even worst they end up being deleted at some point. I know it’s not as easy as it looks to get everyone looking in the same direction, smiling and with all of their limbs in the frame! Quite often, it’s just good luck that you’ll capture a gorgeous image rather than good management! Am I correct?
Improving Your Photography
It’s totally possible to improve your photography skills without having a fancy camera or the latest equipment. Learning how to get the most from your camera phone is probably the biggest favour you can do for your family. After all, it’s the way you capture the majority of your family’s memories all year around.
Of course, hiring a professional photographer for your major life milestones and regular family portraits is never going to be replaced. But there are so many moments in your daily life that a professional just can’t capture. That first meeting of siblings, the tea party for granny’s birthday, the first day at school. Plus countless other occasions that form the fabric of your family life. These are the images that should make up the bulk of your family albums – yes, I’m talking about printing them and actually putting them in albums too! This is how memories will live now and over the years!
The beautiful wall art and large prints definitely belong in the domain of the professional photographer. They offer amazing products of high quality you can enjoy for years. See some examples here.
But, being able to improve your own photography means your images will capture so much more detail and atmosphere for your future generations to enjoy.
Your Free Guide to Capturing Summer Memories
The summer is the perfect time to hone your photography skills. The kids are off school, the weather is (mainly) bright and you might have a little more time to practice. Plus this summer the weather is certainly on your side, with long sunny days and beautiful sunset opportunities.
To help you out I’ve created a simple and free guide to help you improve your skills. I cover how to consider the lighting, give suggestions on the types of images you might want to capture and I’ve even included some suggestions for printing out the photos you take.
I’m sure you’ll find it super useful and I’d love to see the images you take using my tips. You can tag me using my Instagram so I can give you some feedback too!
Go ahead and download your Guide to Capturing Summer Memories here.
Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram where you can ask me anything and you can get inspired.
