Create your own front porch photo shoot in quarantine.

Have you seen those front porch family photos? If you haven’t, check out this hashtag on Instagram – #frontporchproject. It’s one of my favorite feeds to follow right now! I love seeing families from all over share how they are coping during the pandemic. The creativity and personality in some of those photos, it really makes me laugh. (Bonus, you get some cute front door decor ideas!)

If you have been eyeing these photos and wishing you could do it yourself, this is the post for you! I’m going to give you my photographer tips on how to capture your family as you go through #shelterinplace. (Even if it is in a bathrobe and slippers, my personal fav!)

Yes, our front porch is a pool. It’s the vibe down here 🙂

 

Decide what family vibe you want to capture in your photo. 

Are you silly? Serious? Struggling to control all the kids? In need of a drink? Then plan your outfits and props accordingly. Usually, I would advise you to choose colors that go together but aren’t matchy-matchy. That helps your photo look and feel cohesive. But anything goes right now. Wear those sweatpants!

Pick a time that has the best light on your front porch.

Ideally, you want your faces and the porch to be lit up but not in the direct light of the sun. That can cause weird shadows on everyone’s face and make it difficult to get the kids to smile. Try a time in the morning or afternoon when the sun is just behind your house. 

Choose a camera and set it up.

I’m assuming you will be using your phone unless you have a fancy camera you love and know how to use. I’m also going to guess you don’t have a tripod. Even though I do have a tripod, I often don’t use it for my phone. I’ve made a makeshift tripod with weights, chairs, books, or really anything that can get up at your height and lean at the right angle. Get creative!

Use the timer function on your camera.

Almost every phone or camera has a timer. I recommend using the 10-second option. That gives the person that has to press it time to run back to squeeze in, then lets everyone else get situated. I also highly recommend counting down aloud or in your head after starting the timer. That helps you remember when to smile together. Stay smiling a little after you think it goes off, just to make sure.

That’s It! You are ready to create some fabulous photos. If you want inspiration check out #frontporchproject, and if you do end up taking some, share them with me! I’d love to see them in my DMs or emails. Just reach out!