A lot of photographers don’t like to do formal portraiture.  Think – “stiff, boring.” And, they may feel uncomfortable with or are not knowledgeable about posing and lighting large groups. I must admit – it’s hard. For me, it’s the most challenging of any photography I do. Imagine trying to capture everyone in the  group with a pleasant and relaxed expression, eyes open and all looking at the camera.   And, it certainly challenges my interpersonal skills. I am not going to get a good picture unless the group likes me, feels comfortable with me and I make them laugh.  But formal portraiture does have an important place in photography – especially when it comes to documenting an important occasion or preserving a family’s history. Despite the challenges, I consider it an essential part of my work.

Here are some formals I recently did for a 3 generation family on the 50th wedding anniversary of the parents (grandparents). What a great milestone to acknowledge and celebrate!