Probably the most difficult image to set up and pull off is family group photography. These images only really work when everyone is on the same page, looking at the camera and smiling at the same time. Timing by having everyone say “cheese” is the typical way to make everyone smile. But it doesn’t always work.

Here are some things to think about when trying to take that beautiful family portrait to make everyone happy:

Calm down the group It is essential that all participants in the photo feel comfortable with each other and with the photographer. If the photographer is also a family member, being comfortable shouldn’t be a problem. With no strangers in between, relaxing in front of the camera is no problem.

Move to scene – Don’t be afraid to move around the scene, removing the background and focusing only on the people. Cut off the top of the head of taller people to emphasize a connection between family members. Allow the drama of kinship and love to unfold on camera. Let family members interact before taking the photo. Saying “cheese,” though it always comes up as one of the top family photography tips, isn’t always a good thing and will make people stiff and less candid, so sit back and let them get comfortable. The good shot will follow while you watch.

Blur the background – Blurring the background makes people look more dramatic. It makes the family the focus of attention because, after all, the family unit is what you are photographing.

Sincere within the Group – There’s always someone in the family at a gathering who doesn’t want to sit down for a photo. Today’s small compact cameras make it easy to take candid shots without having to pose for everyone. Keep the camera in your pocket while you work across the room. Find your shot, compose it, and shoot fast. It takes practice, but holds work well with a little thought and concentration.

Take multiple shots – When trying to capture everyone in a group, the only really successful way to do it is to take lots of photos, and quickly. Shooting in quick bursts of three or four shots at a time will get you that good shot you’re looking for. The first shot is usually a disposable shot. However, the second or third will probably be the goalkeeper. Fire a few shots before everyone is ready. Some of the best images are of the actual seating arrangement as part of the activity.

timing is everything Timing carefully will make or break the shot. However, true timing can only be learned through practice. Another suggestion that tops the list of family photography tips is that the faster you learn to compose or know what you want in the composition, the better your timing will be. Try to work taking the photo into the natural flow of events, when the family is naturally together rather than artificially posing making it more rigid.

Turning on – No matter what type of photography, lighting is probably the most important element. In most cases, a small flash will suffice. However, larger family groups may require more lighting. Shooting outdoors in natural light makes shooting easier and less stressful.

Taking control – It is paramount for the photographer to maintain control of the situation and communication is the key. He keeps talking to his minions making them understand what he wants to do and what he needs them to do to create a happy situation. If he has a really big group to shoot, use a tripod and have someone act as his assistant.

Smile- Finally, there’s nothing worse than a grumpy old photographer, so smile. That will reassure everyone else who has to participate. Have fun, act like you are enjoying the process. It’s okay to crack a joke or two to relax everyone. And don’t be afraid to be creative. Think outside the box. The group can be a group without sitting next to each other with another row standing at attention behind. Emphasize other elements of “familiarity.” Play with it. Enjoy!

I hope these family photography tips have been helpful to you.