How to capture Fall/Chrsitmas card photos
Well, it is that time of year. The leaves are starting to turn color, the weather is cooling down (finally) and so families are starting to think about their Christmas card photos. And with that, most photographers' schedules are starting to fill up. Therefore, if planning on having a professional photographer capture your families Christmas card photo’s then I would strongly suggest you get booking.
Once booked, you would think it was time to sit back and relax, BUT that is not the case. You need to start working on the outfit and the setting - casual, dressy, country, urban… so many choices on the overall look and vibe of the shoot. The more one plans ahead, the more fun and relaxing the actual day will be. Great sources include your photographer, Pinterest, and of course friends.
Some tips to consider when booking your session:
- Be certain not to book your session around your child’s nap or bedtime. The best lighting is the two hours before sunset or after sunrise. If this is a bad time for your family - talk to your photographer.
- Be sure to eat. If wanting to go out for a nice family dinner to conclude your successful shoot… that is great, just please enjoy a healthy snack before the photoshoot. And feel free to bring snacks (stain-free) for the kids.
- Ask the dads to be cheerful participants. Please understand how important it is to capture your family. Family photos are treasured forever and they are important. And if all else fails, remind your husband of my favorite motto: “Happy Wife, Happy Life”. Always works like a charm with my husband. Words to live by.
- Have fun with your family. Laugh. Giggle. Joke. Embrace. Kiss. Snuggle. Play.
- Bring an activity that you enjoy doing together. This gives your something to do with your hands. Do you love to read together? Bring some books. If you love to play card games or board games - play a round of uno. Other ideas include: football, piggy back rides, races, bike riding… you get the idea. This way the photographer will be able to take photos with “authentic smiles and joy”, that capture a time in life of your family as every year interests change.
- And most importantly, NOT everyone has to be looking at and smiling at the camera at the same time. The best photos are when everyone is engaged… with each other. If engaged with your family, your eyes will be on them and your smile will be natural;. The photographer will capture this connection and that is what really makes for amazing photos.
