Family photography

Pro portrait photographer Catherine O’donnell’s top tips

Photograph your kids at home

As a family photographer, naturally, I’ve been documenting my kids and husband through my lens throughout the lockdown. My boys have been quite amusing during this period, one of them had pink hair last week, and now they’re both sporting mohicans! My aim when I’m photographing my family is to capture a sense of who we all are, in all our perfectly imperfect family life. For these type of reportage style shots I shoot at around f/2 in Aperture Priority mode on my Canon EOS 5D Mark III, with the EF 50mm f/1.2l USM prime lens, and use a high ISO to get a fast shutter speed and eliminate camera-shake indoors.

Edit your Raw images

With my family images I want them to look light and airy – this is easy to do in Adobe Camera Raw using the Exposure and Whites sliders. Then in Photoshop to boost the brightness my top tip is to add a Curves adjustment layer and use the White Point Eyedropper. You can then click on any part of the image you want to be totally white, such as the bedsheets in this picture here.

Work with indoor lighting for brighter portraits

When I’m taking pictures of our little one and family, I’m drawn to capturing those tender moments, especially with our baby, her little expressions, or storytelling moments. For me my favourite images are the ones that make me feel something. I also try to shoot using natural window light where possible – I’m often taking pictures of our baby on our bed (pillows and white sheets can also work really well as reflectors) and keep everything nice and bright. Also in the living room as there’s often lovely diffused window light coming through. Equally, underneath a dappled tree in the garden can work nicely for beautiful natural outdoor portraits.

Update your photo website

I’d implore all photographers to have a website, whether you’re an enthusiast or full-time professional. It’s crucial for me to make sure the website shows off my brand well and is easy to navigate. There are loads of web designers out there if you find it confusing. I’ve also taken the time to refresh my portfolio with my favourite photos from recent portrait shoots. Plus I’ve set up an online photography club for children to help motivate them and keep them busy – it’s been popular during the home schooling period in these times.