DIY & Save: 5 Tricks for Perfect Family Portraits

I'm a big fan of Awkward Family Photos, the site that posts hysterically silly – and just plain bad – family photos. Something that amazes me about the site is how many of these awful photos are professional studio shots. Pay good money to look like this? Or that? I think not. Talk about awkward.

If you're thinking of a DIY family portrait session to save money, take a lesson from these bad studio versions. Odds are your own digital camera is up to the task of taking acceptable or even exceptional quality snapshots. Just arm yourself with a few tips from the professionals before gathering the team together.

Here are 5 tips for getting the perfect group shot:

1. Think ahead. Lighting, composition and location are all things you need to plan in advance. Why? Because multiple family members will likely get fidgety waiting while you fuss with your camera, and their impatience may well show through in the photos.

2. Be kid-friendly. Schedule a time when young family members are rested and well-fed, but bear in mind that noon sun is generally too bright and harsh. Aim for a morning or afternoon time-slot instead. Consider giving babies and toddlers small toys to hold – it will keep fingers busy and hopefully buy you a few blur-free shots.

3. Discuss clothing in advance. Dress nicely and coordinate your photo shoot clothing. On the other hand coordinating does not necessarily mean everyone must dress identically. Be yourselves. For example, say you do want colors to match: If everyone agrees to wear white, let each family member choose which white clothes they'd feel most comfortable in. You don't all have to wear identical white t-shirts.

4. Composition is key. Arrange everyone close together but not too close. For example, there's no need to sit on one another's knees to be cute if that's not your family's cup of tea. In other words, be creative ... but don't go overboard trying to be clever.

5. Smile and have fun. Your job is not just to press the shutter, but to ensure everyone has a great time...and therefore looks great in the photo. As photographer, you need to be artist and cheerleader for the day, so set the tone with a great attitude!