It’s that time of year! Greeting card photo time! Was October crazy busy for anyone else? I’m so happy it’s November. Sure, it’s holiday shopping season, but I can easily take care of that with a few clicks. November is for Thanksgiving and family photos. Whether you plan to go the traditional route and print/mail them – or just post them online, here are some tips to make your family look their very best.
Tips For Your Very Best Holiday Pics
Strive for minimalism.
- Keep the background minimal or blurry {depth of field} and try not to stand up against the mural/wall. You don’t want too much going on in the photo. It’s distracting from the faces and smiles you are trying to display. Pose closer to the camera rather than the background.
- If you are in front of a busy background or gorgeous Houston mural, no worries! Just decrease the patterns on your clothing. Shoot for solids. Once again, you are trying to make the photo less distracting from the main event – your beautiful family!
Lighting is key.
- Natural light is always the winner. Do not include direct sunlight, but shade instead. Window light has a beautiful effect and is my light source 80% of the time. Sometimes twinkle lights are perfect, especially in the evening.
- Take advantage of the twilight hours in the morning and evening – most likely evening when your face is more awake.
- As previously mentioned, twinkle lights are a great prop and add a festive feel. Make sure they are out of focus for the best look. I used the photo below in an Instagram post last year. It’s in the evening, which goes against my natural light preference, but like I said, out of focus twinkle lights can add just the right touch.
- If faced with direct sunlight, no worries! Try to turn away from the sunlight and utilize shadows. There’s direct sunlight on the side of Lila’s face below, as well as on the pumpkins, but as you can see, it doesn’t take away from the focus.
Edit and Print.
- Edit your photo – brighten it, and blur those zits. I like to “correct” objects like light switches, wall outlets, and cables.
- Take photos in October or November so you can order prints in time. If there is a non-glossy option, go with that. For example, this is pearlized and is gorgeous in person. No glossy glares like most drugstores offer.
Plan.
- Make sure children are well rested and alert. Nap? Meal?
- Including a dog? Try to get your pet panting for a happier “smile.”
- Take lots of photos. Tons in a row. Use a remote or an app so you don’t need to constantly get up and set the timer. There is typically about one usable photo in every 25 or so.
- Make everyone laugh! Those are the real smiles.