Thirty minutes before sunset, in the yard, a camera (or cell phone), a tripod and a remote or self-timer. That is all you need for great family photos. As a photographer for 17 years, this is how I captured a few photos of my family this fall. Yes, the family is going to grumble but it’s worth it for the memories, I guarantee.

I had a dress I liked so I snapped a cellphone photo, sent it in a group text and told everyone to find something to coordinate with the date and the time to meet at our house and a promise to be done in 30 minutes.

Prior to everyone getting there, I walked around the yard looking for the best spot to grab photos. This is literally our side yard next to the road. To the right and left are houses, between them was the perfect spot to squeeze together. It doesn’t have to be fancy to look good in photos. I set my camera up on a tripod and tested my settings so everything was ready to go once everyone got there. (No camera, no problem. Cameras on cellphones these days are a great. A $20 phone tripod even comes with a remote.)

A shot to chill everyone out never hurt.

I told everyone to be at the house 30 minutes before sunset for the perfect golden lighting. This is the first photo we took. Not bad but the sun was still a little too bright and caused bright spots and shadows.

Just a few steps forward into the shade with the golden sun off to the side made all the difference. Using a remote for my camera, one of us held it out of sight, counted to three and we all smiled long enough for three or four snaps. Then we would reposition and snap a few more. The key is to make sure to squeeze in close to each other.

Don’t forget individual and couple shots. Since you’re already dressed up, why not?

Not many enjoy the process of family photos but the end result is priceless. And the memories made while capturing the shots will be good for a few laughs in the future. Just be careful who you hand the remote. You never know what will end up on the camera roll.