Hiring a professional photographer is still a great idea for holiday cards, but sometimes it can be costly and takes time out of your already busy schedule to coordinate. For an easier, faster approach, do a holiday photoshoot yourself – it can be a more personal, memorable experience. Here are our tips on how to plan a DIY holiday photoshoot for holiday cards.
Coordinate outfits
Choose a style that appropriately represents your family. For instance, all your family members could wear ugly sweaters, plaid, flannel button-ups, or traditional holiday colors for a more casual look. For a more sophisticated approach, choose three colors to create balance between each member of the family – denim, white, and cream is a great neutral palette, as is white, black, and gray. Mix textures with patterns to create contrast, and don’t be afraid to use props, too.
Pick a Location
Location, location, location. Instead of renting a studio, having your photoshoot in your living room or backyard is more personal and festive. Pose in front of your gas fireplace to set a cozy scene gathered around the fireplace; put up stockings on the mantel for extra color and holiday décor, include your decorated Christmas tree in the shot. If shooting outside, a snowy backdrop sets the scene for a winter wonderland, and sitting in front of your porch with hot cocoa and a wreath in the background can be picturesque as well.
Create a shot list
Posing doesn’t have to be hard – make it fun. A fun shot could be funny faces with all of you laughing. Another one includes staring at each other with smiles, or simply, everyone looking straight into the camera and grinning. Take turns with sitting and standing up, with some members doing one and others doing another. Feel free to use props like presents, hot cocoa, or even your family pet!
Photo tips.
Check the brightness levels setting on your phone (the exposure) and check that everyone is in focus. Use a tripod and a self-timer or remote to take the shots. Take a few test shots to ensure your photo settings are how you like them. Create different poses and refer to your shot list so that you’ll have a few options to choose from. Switching from landscape to portrait can help crop the photo in different ways for impactful shots. Once you’re done taking photos, simply go to your nearest drugstore or download a photo app so that you can print your holiday cards.
