Family portraits are no easy task. It’s like planning the perfect family gathering, which in a sense, it is. You need a relaxed, happy group. If there is discomfort, tension or upset, the final product will undoubtedly reflect that. If you send your best family shot into My Pop Art, you want to showcase your family’s better side, right?

Here are a few pointers to make sure your family portrait is filled with comfort, love and happiness:

1. Schedule the photo shoot when kids are at their happiest. Usually, at least for little ones, this means 5 to 6 p.m. is not the best time.  You can’t always get the time you want, but if you have any control over this aspect at all, I highly recommend working your appointment around your kiddos’ routines.

2. Lighting is important, so you may have to be flexible.  Bright, high noon sunshine is not ideal, so oftentimes, photographers prefer to shoot outdoor photos either in the morning or just before dusk.  You might have to go with the flow and let your kids’ schedule be a bit different that day.

3. Speaking of photographers – if you want a professional photo shoot, but it’s out of your budget, try looking in your local Craigslist.  Budding photographers are always wanting to expand their portfolio, so you may find someone offering a great deal.  You can also try your church, your local university, or word of mouth with your friends – there’s always someone out there who’s wanting to expand their photography business.

If you want to try your hand at shooting your family photograph, practice beforehand. You only get one shot, almost quite literally, to shoot a family photograph. The more you invest in it prior to the big day, the better the final result.