James B Allen III, a retired photographer, gives some insight on getting great shots of people in this interview with Annette Frei. As a Brooks Institute of Photography graduate, his tips and tidbits come with the backing of a highly respected college.

Annette: Tell me about colors relating to family group shots?

James: Don’t get too caught up in everyone wearing matching shirts.  Tan, white and black, with a bright pop of another color thrown in works well. Blues, whites and denim with an occasional pattern creates a neutral palette that lets the faces be the focal point. Unless it is planned to have one person stand out with a strikingly different look, keep the palette to two to three colors with varying shades of those colors. Most of the time we are aiming for the most “naturally cohesive” look.

Annette: Posing and hand placement – Are there some simple tips you go by?

James: Men – put one hand in your pocket, but keep the thumb out, so you look like you still have a hand. Women – hand on hip, with a bent wrist. Three quarter side stance works great for both men and women, large or small. It has a thinning effect, and your clients will be happier for it. Create varying levels and poses in a group shot.

Annette: Do you recommend props?

James: Props can be cheesy if not thought out well. But just the right props can give little clues about the person or group. A beach family may want their surf board in the photo. It could be set up in the background while the family is in focus in the foreground. Props that create varied levels work well also. Just don’t overpower your shot with props.

Annette: It must be difficult to shoot a group with highly contrasting skin tones. How do you handle this?

James: Using lighting, I would place the darkest skinned person first and set up good lighting for them, then pose the lighter skinned people around the perimeter where not as much spot light is hitting. Adding a flash reflector or soft fill to brighten any dark areas usually helps.

Annette: How should I prepare the group before our family photo?

James: Assign a point person that will listen to the photographer, and knows how to control the group. Tell each person to show up early, completely ready. We want have fun, but it is about getting the best shot in a timely manner, so be quiet and listen. Hold your pose until the photographer says you can move, even if your other family members are fidgeting. Be ready to smile your happiest smile, no matter how cranky you are.

Annette: If you could give one bit of advise to a new photographer, what would that be?

James: Being able to set the mood is one of the most important attributes a photographer can bring to a shoot. If you are shooting a party, be attentive to the main attraction; the bride, birthday person….Be personable and coax a smile out of each person and group. Be ready to catch the un-posed shot. It is about great pictures, but also great moments.

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