Probably the most difficult image to set up and carry out is the family group photograph. 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 get everyone to 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 member of the family, being comfortable should not be a problem. With no strangers in the way, relaxing in front of the camera is no problem.

Move to scene – Don’t be afraid to move around in the scene, removing the background and focusing only on the people. Cut off the tops of taller people’s heads 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,” while always listed as one of the top family photography tips, isn’t always a good thing and will make people stiff and less than sincere, so sit back and let them get comfortable. The good shot will follow as 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 photos without having to pose everyone. Keep the camera in your pocket while you work in the room. Find your shot, compose it, and shoot quickly. It takes practice, but holds come off well with a little thought and focus.

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 the good shot you’re looking for. The first shot is usually a throwaway shot. However, the second or third will probably be the goalkeeper. Shoot a few shots before everyone is ready. Some of the best images are of the actual organization to sit down 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 the shot within the natural flow of events, when the family is naturally together rather than artificially posing by making it more rigid.

Turning on – No matter what kind 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. Taking the picture outdoors in natural light makes the shot easier and less stressful.

Taking control – It is essential for the photographer to maintain control of the situation and communication is the key. He keeps talking to his subjects 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 photograph, use a tripod and have someone act as his assistant.

Smile- Finally, there is nothing worse than a grumpy old photographer, so smile. That will reassure everyone else who has to participate. Have fun, act like you’re enjoying the process. It’s okay to crack a joke or two to get everyone loosened up. And don’t be afraid to be creative. Think out of 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.