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@mikeatchisonphotography
I'm a Geelong based wedding photographer who understands that beautiful timeless wedding photography doesn't include cheesy posing!
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Family photography is important for so many reasons. It’s a great way to capture memories that are easily forgotten about. By having pictures of you, your spouse, and your kids together, it will be easy to remember the good times you had as a family when life gets hectic. You can also look back on these photos years down the line and reminisce about what an amazing time in your lives this was! Family photography helps create special memories that will last forever.
Family photography is a tradition that should remain strong. It serves as a remembrance of your children at any age.
But how times and styles have changed! In the past, photographs were made of a family standing together and smiling. This might have been the ideal family portrait, but in today’s busy world, it’s a little unrealistic.
When I was a kid, I remember when my parents would have family photos taken every once in a while. It was a really big deal in our family! We had to get all dressed up, brush the chompers and make sure we washed behind our ears!
Then, on the big day, the photographer would take us out to the gardens or the lake or even into an overgrown bushy area, move us into different poses, and then move on to the next part of the shoot. This went on for what felt like ages for a young fella! But we all pushed on with the shoot and behaved ourselves. And now, years later, I’m thankful to my parents for making us do it! It was well worth it.
These photographs mean so much to me.
They document your way of life and the events that you hold dear. Every family is different, and no two families ever photograph the same way. You might decide to have your children photographed outdoors or in your family home. Whatever you choose, what you love about your family photographs is the fact that they are yours.
It’s important to remember that family photography isn’t about showcasing your family’s glamour or posing for the camera. It’s simply about capturing the essence of your family — looking at each other, laughing, smiling, playing, and having fun.
Keep it casual. Don’t dress up everyone with matching outfits or try to plan the perfect family portrait. Instead, let people wear whatever they want and take pictures whenever they’re ready.
Don’t worry about perfection. If you’re taking posed pictures, just snap a few shots and don’t worry about lighting or posing. Take candid shots of family members talking, playing together, and interacting.
Use natural lighting. Natural lighting is flattering, so if you’re taking pictures indoors, open your curtains and windows. If the weather is nice, take your pictures outside.
Go for candid shots. Candid shots are candid, but they’re also the most authentic. Don’t try to set up the perfect photo. Like candid shots of people, candid shots of kids tend to be the best. Avoid posed photos. Posed photos are great, but they’re not for everyone. Consider taking a posed photo or two, but keep it simple, and don’t take more than one or two.
Use props sparingly! I’ll say it again… Use props sparingly! I’m all for having a special blanket or super special bunny rabbit/teddy involved in a photo session, but if you’re thinking of throwing in some kind of “out there” prop that you’ve seen on some influencer’s Instagram post, leave it at home! Now that I have a beautiful little girl to call my own, I understand the importance of Lil’ Bun Bun. Isabella takes her EV-ERY-WHERE! So I would want that little detail captured in our family photos. Embrace the small things that hold a huge place in your little one’s hearts and you’ll thank me later!
Try getting the kids involved in planning the photoshoot — give them a few options of outfits or scenery and try to involve them in the planning. Have the photos taken at their favourite park or beach. Doing an activity they REALLY love. There, that’s three awesome tips right there! Don’t forget to invite grandparents or great-grandparents to the shoot as well. One of my favourite sessions was when my clients arrived at the session at Anglesea Beach with their Nanna. It was a surprise that I wasn’t aware of, but it made the shoot that much more special!
Family photography is the kind of photography that captures the heart and soul of who you are, the moments that matter to you, the love that brought you together, the moments that make you smile, the moments that fill you with joy. Those are the moments that your family will cherish forever.
The passing of time and distance can make families feel disconnected. Photographs are a tangible reminder of all the good times we’ve shared. As children and loved ones grow and change, the photographs we have are one of the few things we can hold on to that remind us of our time together.
To savour the memories we have today. To remember the smiles on our faces and the laughter in our children’s voices.
I want to help you preserve these precious moments by creating beautiful photographs for generations to come! Let’s chat about how we can work together. Message me anytime
November 24, 2021
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@mikeatchisonphoto
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I live and work on Wathaurong country.
I acknowledge the Wathaurong people as the traditional custodians of the Geelong region and pay my respects to Wathaurong elders past and present, as well as the Aboriginal Elders of other communities who may be here.
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@mikeatchisonphoto
STALK ME
I live and work on Wathaurong country.
I acknowledge the Wathaurong people as the traditional custodians of the Geelong region and pay my respects to Wathaurong elders past and present, as well as the Aboriginal Elders of other communities who may be here.
COPYRIGHT © 2024 Mike Atchison Photography Geelong, VIC