Every family has their own rhythm, personality, and quirks and the way you approach photos should reflect that. This quiz will help you figure out your family photography style, whether you lean towards something classic, prefer a more relaxed approach, or like a mix of both.
- What’s your preferred approach to capturing family moments?
a) Posed and more formal portraits
b) Candid and spontaneous shots
c) A mix of both - When you think of a family photo, what location comes to mind?
a) A studio
b) A scenic outdoor setting
c) Home or a familiar place - Which aspect of photography do you find most appealing?
a) Visually artistic images
b) Authentic and emotional moments
c) A balance of both - How patient are you when it comes to photography sessions?
a) Very patient – I don’t mind spending time to get the perfect shot.
b) Somewhat patient – I like time to get settled but not so long it takes the whole day
c) Not very patient – I prefer short and efficient sessions. - When looking at family photos, what do you value the most?
a) Visual aesthetics and technical quality
b) Emotional connection and storytelling
c) A combination of both - How would you describe your family’s style and personality?
a) Classic and formal
b) Adventurous and carefree
c) A bit of everything – we’re a diverse bunch! - Which editing style do you prefer for your family photos?
a) Polished and retouched for a professional look
b) Natural and true to life, with minimal editing
c) A mix, depending on the photo’s mood and purpose - What is your ideal end result for your family photos?
a) Framed and displayed on the wall
b) Digitally stored for sharing and reminiscing
c) A combination of both - Which words best describe your vision for family photography?
a) Formal, traditional, and elegant
b) Candid, emotional, and real
c) Versatile, adaptable, and meaningful
Now, let’s see your quiz results
- Mostly “a” answers: You might lean towards traditional family photography, focusing on well-composed, posed shots in controlled environments.
- Mostly “b” answers: You’re more inclined toward candid and documentary-style family photography, capturing authentic and unscripted moments.
- A mix of “a” and “b” answers: You appreciate both traditional and candid photography and might enjoy a balanced approach, incorporating the best of both worlds to capture your family’s essence.
- Mostly “c” answers: Your preferences are versatile and adaptable, meaning you could explore various styles depending on the occasion and your family’s mood.
There’s no right or wrong choice; the best style for you is the one that resonates most with your family’s personality and your own creative vision and hopes for a session.
What I offer families
The way I work sits somewhere between guiding and letting things unfold (I can absolutely shoot entirely documentary – I personal LOVE it but entirely hands off is actually not helpful for a lot of families who don’t want to be left floundering) I don’t expect kids to sit still or families to line up perfectly that’s not real life. Instead, I give just enough direction so you feel comfortable, while leaving space for the interactions that make your family yours. Sessions are relaxed, not drawn out, and the aim is always for the process to feel easy from start to finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Think about your family’s personality. Do you prefer structure and formal portraits, or do you feel more comfortable with photos that follow the natural flow of your life? The quiz above is a fun way to start narrowing down your family photography style.
Traditional family photography style is more posed and directed, think everyone arranged together, often looking at the camera. Documentary or lifestyle family photography style is more hands-off, focusing on real interactions and moments as they happen. Many photographers (myself included) offer a mix of both, so you get the best of each.
Of course. Your family photography style can shift depending on your stage of life and what feels meaningful to you at the time.
That’s common. Some parents may love candid shots, while grandparents might want a traditional group portrait. A balanced family photography style usually works beautifully – a few guided portraits in amongst more natural interactions. Because we still all absolutely want that “looking at the camera” shot.
