Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and it is the perfect occasion to take new family portraits. Contrary to common belief, celebrating love doesn’t necessarily limit itself to real-life couples. You can capture fantastic pictures of your children, siblings, and friends in a Valentine’s Day themed setting too.
The best thing about February 14 is its deep meaning for all of us. It is a celebration of love, and beyond its romantic meaning, there are also many other ways to love each other. So, it is fair to say that photos taken on Valentine’s Day will have a special glow.
However, capturing a timeless and beautiful Valentine’s Day photo that works for everyone is no easy task. Of course, you want the best couple portrait to hang on the wall. But how do you make sure the photos of those who aren’t romantically involved, such as siblings or your kids, will not look out of place? Here are a few tips to make the day a memorable moment for everyone.
Natural light
Valentine’s Day photos are special and should be taken in the best light possible. That is why sunset light is the perfect choice for creating stunning photographs. The soft glow of the setting sun produces a beautiful golden hue, adding warmth and romance to any photo. This type of light is ideal for creating stunning silhouettes against a colorful sky and is also perfect for capturing subtle shadows that can add an extra layer of drama to a Valentine’s Day photo.
It’s important to get outdoors to capture this natural light, as it’s the only way to ensure your photos look their best. If your garden has the right orientation and background, you can set up the stage for your photoshoot directly outside your home. No garden? No panic; you can find great spots for sunset light by visiting nearby parks, beaches, or anywhere with a nice backdrop. Look for a spot with a good combination of open space and tall trees or buildings, as this will help create beautiful silhouettes and shadows in your photos. When taking photos outdoors, always make sure to prepare for all eventualities. You want to pack a good insect repellent in your bag; you can find some of the best natural insect repellent brands here. Remember to check the weather beforehand and be aware of any clouds that may disrupt the light.
Themed and Beautiful Accessories
One of the best ways to create a memorable and romantic Valentine’s Day couple photo is by adding themed and beautiful accessories. A heart-shaped accessory such as a balloon garland is a great touch that will make your photo look extra special. Balloon garlands come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors and can easily be added to any space to create an eye-catching backdrop. You can also get creative and add other items to your garland, such as paper hearts, flower petals, or tinsel, to add more romance and color to your photo. This is a fantastic option if you can use your backyard, as you don’t need to transport your balloon heart. Alternatively, a single oversized heart balloon is easy to take if you drive to a location.
Nail a Great Pose
A great pose can elevate your photos from average to extraordinary, so it’s important to take the time to ensure you get the perfect one.
Start by considering what kind of vibe you want to create in the photo. Do you want to capture a romantic moment? Are you looking for something more playful? What emotion do you want your photo to convey? Once you know the feel of your photo, it’s time to decide on the perfect pose.
Think about how you want to position the bodies and how close you want to be. You can go for traditional poses, such as a hug or embrace, or choose something more creative. There are no rules here – try different poses and play around until you find one that fits the vibe you’re looking for. Be aware that people will need time to feel comfortable in front of the camera. It’s okay to spend a few minutes chatting with everyone to relax the atmosphere and help them look more natural.
At the same time, be aware of the lighting and surroundings. If the sun is behind you, make sure you adjust the pose so the faces are illuminated.
Here is an important question: Should Valentine’s Day portraits be romantic? The answer is: It varies. Couples’ photos should be, of course, but there is no rule. Valentine’s Day photoshoots are filled with gorgeous accessories and decor, so why not make it a family photo day instead?
