Remember being sat on a dusty chair in front of a bookcase background and being forced to smile when you started school? How about the photo of you lying on the fluffy rug with a shocked smile because the flash caught you off guard when you finished school?
Things have changed since then, as we found when we looked into the contemporary ‘just because’ portrait.
Family portraits are normally taken when there is a special occasion, but why not have a ‘just because’ picture with your loved ones, capturing the here and now? We asked a local photographer Lisa Lundquist for her top tips on how to get that picture perfect.
Your photographer
Have a look online; most photographers have a website to showcase their work. Look through the pictures and note down what style you like or even print off a few examples so you can show your photographer at the shoot.
Give your photographer a phone call and ask them questions about their styles and why they pick particular shots.
Your style
Ask about the different backgrounds and the different shots. Lundquist explains that she uses large white backgrounds to show natural interaction between family members "jokes, tickling and playing are encouraged". If you have playful children this can be the opportunity to capture the moment.
She also explains why she likes to use her black background, describing its softness and how she finds it ideal for taking close-ups for the more posed shots. Make sure you tell your photographer your preferences; you could even take in clippings that you found online or in magazines.
On the day
Once a style has been determined try explaining beforehand what you would like to wear. They can offer you recommendations in terms of clothing and make-up. They can inform you what goes well with the ‘natural’ shots and the more posed set-ups. This way you can work together with your photographer to make the ideal image. Depending on the length of your photo shoot you may get a chance to change clothes and try out a different style.
Finally
Pick a time that is good for you and your family. This is essential to families with young children and babies, consider the times they are at their best, maybe just after a nap?
Be sure to know what is included in your package and how much your additional prints will cost. Ask for a price list before the shoot – because we all know you can’t leave with just the one!
www.lisalundqvistphotography.com
Contact Lisa to book your ‘just because’ photo shoot 050 790 9774
We also like:
http://www.liesbethdebekker.com/ and www.rhondawalker.com
Amy Murphy
