At Faithful Photography, we’ve seen our fair share of picture-perfect family portraits. But there’s something special about those less-than-perfect shots that capture the true essence of family life.
Awkward family portraits have become a beloved trend, celebrating the quirks and imperfections that make each family unique. In this post, we’ll explore why these unpolished moments are so valuable and how you can create your own memorable awkward family photos.
Why Awkward Photos Make the Best Memories
At Faithful Photography, we’ve noticed a growing trend: families embrace their quirks and imperfections in front of the camera. This shift towards authenticity in family portraits refreshes and warms our hearts.
The Power of Unscripted Moments
Awkward family photos have a unique ability to capture genuine emotions and interactions. These unpolished snapshots often become the most cherished memories because they reflect real life, not a staged version of it. A study explored domestic photographers’ conceptions of the meaning and function of photographs in their lives and in the lives of their families, highlighting the importance of authenticity in family photography.
From Internet Sensation to Cultural Phenomenon
The popularity of awkward family portraits exploded with the launch of AwkwardFamilyPhotos.com in 2009. Since then, these endearingly imperfect images have become a cultural touchstone, spawning books, calendars, and even museum exhibitions.
Capturing Family Dynamics in Their Raw Form
Awkward family photos excel at revealing the true nature of family relationships. Whether it’s a teenager’s eye roll, a toddler’s tantrum, or a dad’s corny joke, these images capture the essence of family life in all its messy glory.
The Art of Imperfection
Professional photographers (like those at Faithful Photography) understand the value of these unscripted moments. While we try to create beautiful portraits, we also appreciate the spontaneous, sometimes awkward interactions that truly reflect a family’s unique dynamic. After all, it’s these imperfect moments that often become the most perfect memories.
As we move forward, let’s explore how you can create your own memorable awkward family photos that will stand the test of time and bring smiles for years to come.
How to Create Memorable Awkward Family Portraits
Embrace the Unexpected
When you plan your family photo session, consider unconventional settings that reflect your family’s personality. A local playground, your messy living room, or even the grocery store can provide a unique backdrop for your portraits. These unexpected locations often lead to natural, candid interactions that make for truly memorable images.
Props and Costumes: Your Secret Weapons
Don’t fear the incorporation of props or costumes into your photo session. Matching ugly sweaters, silly hats, or even your family pet can add an element of fun and spontaneity to your portraits. A survey conducted by Professional Photographers of America found that more than 60% of consumers prefer hiring a professional photographer for family portraits.
Capture Real Emotions
The key to creating authentic awkward family portraits is to encourage genuine reactions and expressions. Instead of asking everyone to say “cheese,” try telling jokes, playing games, or even starting a tickle fight during the photo session. These activities can lead to natural laughter, silly faces, and candid moments that truly capture your family’s unique dynamic.
Timing is Everything
Schedule your photo session during a time when your family naturally gathers and relaxes. This could be during your weekly game night, while you make pancakes on a Sunday morning, or even during your annual camping trip. Choose a time when everyone feels comfortable and engaged, and you’ll increase your chances of capturing those perfectly imperfect moments.
Create a Comfortable Environment
Professional photographers (like those at Kate Cashin Photography) know how to create a comfortable, engaging environment that allows families to be themselves in front of the camera. Experienced photographers possess the skills to capture those unscripted moments that make for truly memorable family portraits.
The goal of an awkward family portrait is not perfection, but authenticity. You’ll create family photos that are uniquely yours and truly unforgettable when you embrace the unexpected, incorporate fun elements, and encourage genuine emotions. Now, let’s explore some creative ways to display and share these one-of-a-kind family portraits.
How to Display Your Awkward Family Photos
Create a Quirky Gallery Wall
Mix your awkward family photos with traditional portraits to create a dynamic and entertaining gallery wall. This contrast highlights the beauty in both polished and candid moments. Choose frames that complement each other but don’t match exactly. This approach adds visual interest and emphasizes the eclectic nature of your family memories.
Design a Humorous Family Yearbook
Transform your collection of awkward family photos into a hilarious yearbook-style photo book. Include funny captions, “awards” for the most awkward pose or expression, and even mock advertisements featuring family members. This project not only preserves your memories but also becomes a conversation starter when guests visit.
Personalize Everyday Items
Turn your awkward family photos into functional art by incorporating them into everyday items. Custom phone cases, mouse pads, or even throw pillows featuring your family’s most hilariously awkward moments add a personal touch to your home or office. These items serve as constant reminders of the joy and laughter in your family life.
Create a Seasonal Display
Rotate your awkward family photos seasonally. For example, showcase beach vacation bloopers in summer and awkward holiday card outtakes in winter. This approach keeps your decor fresh and allows you to enjoy different memories throughout the year.
Embrace Digital Displays
Use digital photo frames or smart TVs to create slideshows of your awkward family photos. This method allows you to display a large number of images without cluttering your walls. You can even set up different playlists for various occasions (family gatherings, holidays, etc.).
Final Thoughts
Awkward family portraits celebrate authenticity and the beautiful imperfections that make each family unique. These unpolished moments often become the most cherished memories, capturing the essence of family life – the laughter, the chaos, and the love that binds us together. The lasting value of candid, unscripted moments cannot be overstated.
Years from now, when you look back at these awkward family portraits, you’ll remember not just how you looked, but how you felt in that moment. The shared laughter over a silly pose or the genuine smiles during an impromptu tickle fight become treasured memories that strengthen family bonds. These portraits serve as a reminder that perfection is overrated.
At Faithful Photography, we specialize in capturing timeless family memories. Our experienced photographers create a comfortable, engaging environment that allows families to be themselves (resulting in stunning images that truly reflect each family’s unique story). We invite you to embrace the awkward, celebrate the imperfect, and create family portraits that are as unique and wonderful as your family itself.