Autumn is a photogenic season. The vibrant reds, oranges and yellows of the changing leaves transforms any military post from blah to beautiful. Perhaps you’ve decided to take fall family photos but don’t want to go the usual sit on the front porch with a pumpkin and smile route.
Not sure how to start? Need inspiration? Looking for ideas? Try to take more creative family photos this autumn with 10 tips from a military spouse. You don’t have to be a professional photographer to capture beautiful moments. You don’t need to hire a professional photographer to take pictures of your family. Practice your photography skills and maybe this year you can save money by taking your own Christmas pictures.
Here are 10 ways to photograph the autumn season with your military family.
- Choose a Memorable Place. Are you near the location your spouse proposed to you? If you are within driving distance of the place you took your wedding photos or newborn pictures, those could be great locations. Shooting in a previously used location can bring back great memories and show how your family has grown and changed since those original photos were taken.
- Invite the Neighborhood. Fall photos don’t have to be specifically immediate family. Consider asking your friends if they would like to join the fun and capture some great moments too. It can be tough on friendships when the military requires you to move. Make it a priority to take pictures with your friends and your children’s friends at each military installation.
- Use Photo Props. What sentiment are you trying to convey? Do you want specifically Halloween pictures or more autumn and harvest-type settings? If you choose to create your own photo set, think about potential props first. Are the supplies you want readily available or will you make them? Do you have the time and patience to make special backgrounds or should you simply make a quick trip to the local garden supply center or local farm stand?
- Show Your Silly Face. Don’t be too serious. Let your kids have fun. Watch them as they throw leaves at each other or search for the perfect pumpkin. Great photography doesn’t have to be planned. The best pictures are those you never expected to get.
- Snap It with Your Smartphone. You don’t have to have expensive camera equipment. Take pictures with your smartphone. You’ll be surprised how beautiful pictures can turn out these days with advanced technology.
- Keep the Camouflage. If your spouse is deployed, take something special of theirs to the photo session so that they will be part of the family pictures. Many friends have used part of their spouse’s uniform: boots, dog tags or cover. You could even have your children or family pet dress in military style to portray the pride your family has in the military.
- Stay on Post. Why not take some snapshots at your current military installation? It could be a park, a bridge, the lake or ocean, a forest or even a meadow. The photos don’t need to scream I’m on a military base, so don’t limit your thoughts to a picture in front of the base sign. There are beautiful locations just waiting to be discovered.
- Showcase Your Family’s Personality. If you are a close affectionate family, let it show with hugs and kisses. If you spend your days giggling and having fun, let it shine through in the pictures. Think beyond the standard sit up straight and smile directly at the camera routine. Laugh, hug and throw leaves at each other. Be yourself.
- Go Beyond Pumpkins. Yes, when most people think of taking fall photos they picture autumn leaves, pumpkins and haystacks. What about flannel lumberjacks shirts or football jerseys?
- Let Your Kids Lead. Ask them for ideas. You don’t have to create some magical and amazing setting. Don’t over think it. Less is more. Go to a pumpkin patch and have fun or pick up a few fall items and decorate your home. Remember, this is supposed to be fun. You are capturing family moments not creating stress. Enjoy the fall season and enjoy your family.
What ideas do you have for military fall family photos?
Don’t forget to submit your Halloween photos to MilitaryShoppers’ Military Kid Photo Contest. You will be entered to win a $100 Toys R Us e-gift card.
