5 Tips for Getting Out from Behind the Camera and Being in Family Photos

Are you always the one behind the camera, capturing precious moments but rarely finding yourself in the family photos? This is an unfortunate common occurrence, as the “best” photographer is often the one with this task. 

However, if you feel identified with the above, fret not. It’s time to step into the spotlight and become the star of your own snapshots! We have some fun and easy tips to help you get out from behind the lens and into those precious moments for posterity.

1. Designated Photographer

With modern smartphones being the epitome of point-and-shoot cameras, anyone can take decent pictures nowadays. This means it’s time to share camera duty! A good idea is to designate rotating “family photographers” for different events, so when you use a photo book maker, there’s at least one with each family member.

Keeping tabs is simple, too. You can check whether your partner, children, parents, or other relatives were present at the previous event. If they were in the shot, they might as well be the photographer this time! It can even be a fun game where the one with the shorter stick loses.

2. Use a Timer

You can manage with a timer if nobody wants to take the high road. Most cameras have a built-in timer that can be customized, giving you plenty of time to get into the shot. It’s also available on smartphones, and you can toggle a sound signal to know when to get ready.

Remember to turn the timer off when you’re done because it’s incredibly annoying to forget about it and miss a great moving picture because of the waiting period later on.

3. Use a Remote

This is one of the best ways to solve this pesky problem. Professional cameras usually allow you to use remote controls for various functions, including pressing the shutter. It’s incredibly useful for many situations, including selfies or when nobody else is around, and you need to be on the shot.

If you’re using a smartphone, Bluetooth controllers let you do the same. The only downside is you can’t see the screen, so you have little control of your shooting.

4. Make It Fun

If you want to add some spice to family photos, you can use your absence creatively, making the picture even more memorable. 

For example, you can ask a family member to hold a giant-sized cardboard or a sign with your name or facial picture. There can be an empty spot where you should be or perhaps a personal item representing you.

Another fun and easy idea is to put a big mirror in front of you so you’ll still show up on the camera as you take the shot.

5. The Nuclear Option

If none of the above works, you have a final option: edit yourself into the picture! There are lots of software available for this purpose, and some are as easy as pointing and shooting a picture.

While at it, you can enhance the colors, add or remove details such as intrusive items, and much more!