Three Simple Tips for Better Family Holiday Photos
- Zee Gunchev
- Dec 2, 2024
- 3 min read
The holiday season is a wonderful time for capturing cherished family moments – but somehow, taking those photos can feel like an Olympic event for parents. Between coordinating outfits, wrangling excited little ones, and getting everyone to smile at the same time, family holiday photos often turn into a test of patience and perseverance. Let’s make it easier this year!
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Holiday Outfit Inspiration
When planning holiday outfits, think about soft and cohesive color palettes like warm neutrals, deep greens and rich reds to create a timeless look. Avoid bold patterns that can distract from your family’s beautiful smiles, and instead, consider adding festive touches like textured knits, velvet dresses, or subtle metallic accessories. Aim for outfits that complement one another rather than perfectly matching—this adds depth and personality to your photos. While I adore a good matching holiday pajama photo for cozy mornings, as a photographer, I recommend steering clear of putting everyone in the same outfit for family portraits. It’s fun to let individual styles shine! I’d love to hear your favorites—do you have a go-to store for holiday family outfits? Drop your recommendations in the comments below!
Find the Right Lighting and Timing
The holidays are a perfect time to capture family photos—everyone is home for the holidays, and the joy of the season shines through naturally. While you don’t need to go all out with a professional photo shoot, a quick setup with your phone, tripod, and timer can create lasting memories. Before you snap away, though, think about the timing and setting to make your photos truly special. Lighting can make or break a photo, but with a little planning, you can create beautiful images. If you have a lovely spot in the backyard, aim for golden hour—just after sunrise or just before sunset—when the light is soft and golden, casting an even glow with the sun behind everyone. For indoor photos, turn off artificial lights and gather near a large window to bathe your family in natural light. These small adjustments can make your holiday photos even more magical!
If you’re looking to book a professional session during the holidays while the whole family is home, I’m here to take the stress off your plate and help plan the perfect time for your session.
Keep it Fun and Candid
While the classic photo of everyone looking and smiling at the camera is a holiday staple, the real Christmas magic happens in the moments in between. Capture the joy of the season by focusing on authentic moments—like playing a silly Christmas game, decorating cookies with sprinkles everywhere, or gathering around the table sharing laughter and cherished family stories. These are the memories that truly showcase your family’s traditions and the heart of the holidays. Don’t stress over perfection; instead, focus on the love, laughter, and magic the season brings. Need help keeping it fun and stress-free, especially with little ones? Be sure to check out my November post on 5 Tips for Easy Photo Sessions with Kids to make capturing your holiday moments a breeze!
Better Holiday Family Photos Start With These Three Tips
The holiday season is all about embracing the magic of togetherness, and capturing those cherished family moments should feel like a joy, not a chore. With these simple tips—choosing thoughtful outfits, finding the right lighting, and focusing on candid, heartfelt moments—you can create beautiful memories that reflect the love and laughter of the season. Whether you're snapping photos on your own or looking to book a professional session, the goal is the same: preserving the traditions and joy that make your family unique.
If you're inspired to make this holiday season truly special, explore more of my blog for tips, or reach out to learn how I can help you plan a stress-free and meaningful family photo session. Let’s make this year’s memories ones you'll treasure for a lifetime!
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Zee Gunchev is an Essex family and newborn photographer with years of experience in the lifestyle photography area. She focuses on capturing genuine moments in soft, dreamy tones and natural light to be savoured for years to come. Her timeless images and effortless style are chosen by many Essex families to document important milestones and life stages.
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