A photo memory keepsake makes one of the best family reunion souvenirs.
Family reunions are the best time to get photos of everyone: the entire family, the individual families, the cousins, the aunts and uncles.
Because when else do you have your entire extended family together in one spot? Seize the opportunity and take some group photos. Future generations will thank you when they come across these photo memories that capture their family history.
Tips for taking group photos at family reunions
- The easiest way to set up your family reunion picture is to use a tripod with a self-timer.
- Make sure the camera is turned horizontally to get everyone in the picture.
- Take several test shots, and if using a digital camera, take advantage of the LCD display screen to preview the image.
- Since this opportunity comes along only once a year, once a decade, or in many cases once in a lifetime, make sure to take several (or more) shots to ensure that you have the perfect photo.
- In addition to a large group shot, it is a great idea to take photos of individual couples and their children. With all these photos, you can create a visual family tree!
If you are looking for a more unique option, consider hiring a photographer to take journalistic-style photos during your family reunion. These are candid shots that offer a more natural approach than posed photographs. With this style of photography, you can capture some great photos of people laughing, hugging, socializing, and enjoying themselves.
The Checklist: One Month Before The Reunion
- Go over your guest list and see how many photos you will be giving away as souvenirs. Will you give a photo to each guest, or one per family unit?
- Decide if you will be taking horizontal (group) or vertical (couple) photos, or if you will be taking some of each. Also decide which size prints you will be printing – 4″ x 6″, 5″ x 7″ or larger.
- Choose a mailable photo holder. You can choose a folder style print holder (where the photo is inside) or an easel photo frame. To make your photo gifts extra special, imprint your family name, reunion date, and location in foil. Some families even have a family logo! This would be great to print or imprint on your photo holders. Don’t forget the mailing envelopes!
- Purchase a guest book. Even if you have many of the addresses or your family, having a guest book is a nice touch for any large event. Guests will write their names, addresses, and personal message. You can later use this “address book” for sending out all of your photos! Since most guest books are designed with a wedding theme, think outside of the box and make your own with a blank bookstore journal or a family tree guest book.
- Clear out your memory card. Make sure that your camera works (having back-up camera is always a good idea). Charge your batteries, get your tri-pod, and make sure you have everything you need to take great photos. If hiring a professional, now is the time to reserve a photographer.
In the days after the reunion, process and print your photos and insert into your folders or frames. Address your envelopes using your guest book information and mail out your family reunion photo keepsakes!
Having a personalized photo of your reunion is more memorable than a cheap reunion t-shirt or key chain, and will provide lasting memories for your family for generations to come.
If you need help finding the perfect frame for your family reunion photos, visit our website, send us an email, or give us a call at (800) 346-3063.