Make your family beach shot a moment to remember.
The beach is a popular place for both family gatherings and lots of picture taking. Most are content to settle with quick snapshots of their loved ones, but these unremarkable captures are quickly forgotten. Before snapping your next family portrait on the shore, take a second to assess the scene -- it will turn your simple snap into a memorable photograph.
Morning and Evening Shots
The beach is a very bright place during the middle of a sunny, cloudless day -- which is exactly why you should avoid shooting your family portrait at this time. The sun's high location creates dark, harsh shadows, lots of reflective glare and a horizon that is much too light. For neutral, muted tones, try to plan your portrait shoot for earlier in the morning, between 6 and 9 a.m. For warmer, more saturated tones aim for later in the evening, around 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. A well-chosen flash setting on your camera can make a gorgeous twilight portrait possible.
Color Coordination
While your family doesn't have to be dressed exactly alike, matching a few colors helps to establish visual harmony in the portrait. Choose solid-colored, logo-free clothing, as garments of this sort will help to accentuate your beautiful surroundings. Neutral-toned apparel works best for beach photography in any light.
Pick a Focal Point
Establish a fun or interesting focal point for your portrait. You may arrange your family around the pillars of an old wooden pier. Alternatively, you may wish to use a more distant background object -- such as a lighthouse or rocky seaside cliff -- as an anchoring point. A well-chosen focal point will tie the portrait together and make it a truly unique capture.
Action Shots
Take a family photo while frolicking in the shallows, bouncing a colorful beach ball or flying kites.
Stylize Your Portrait
Plan for various processing options. Convert the photograph to black and white for a timeless addition to your family album. Try a sepia-tone conversion for a rich amber monotone. If you will be framing your portrait, choose a frame that complements and accentuates the colors within the photograph.
