The holiday season is magical. If you’re like most parents, you want to capture photos of every special moment. Whether unwrapping gifts, baking cookies, or simply watching the sparkle in their eyes, these are memories worth preserving. The good news? You don’t need a fancy camera or professional skills to take better photos of your kids.
Here are ten tips to help you get meaningful photos this holiday season.
10 Tips to Take Better Photos of Your Kids During the Holidays
1. Change Your Perspective – Get on Their Level
Don’t take photos pointing the camera down at your kids. This is the time to get down on their level. Your photos will help you see the world from their point of view and bring their sweet expressions to life. You’ll capture the most flattering angle of your little angel.
2. Use Natural Light
I know this tip is tricky in our dark winters, but try to use natural light if possible. Festive holiday lights are certainly beautiful, but they can make for tricky lighting. If it’s daytime, try to position your kids near a window for soft, flattering light.
3. Composition
Play with composition. Your child doesn’t always have to be front and center. Placing your child off-center can create interesting photos, perhaps with the Christmas tree, a snowman, or some other festive subject.
4. Be Aware of the Background
A quick note on the background. Be aware of what’s in the background and if you need to make any quick adjustments. Is Uncle Jerry’s foot in the background? Wait until he moves. Is there a pile of wrapping paper that would distract from your kid? Push it out of the way. You’ll take better photos of your kids and you’ll thank yourself later.
5. Treasure Candid Moments
You want to be present during the holiday festivities, but don’t forget to slip your phone or camera out to document some candid moments. It could be Grandpa reading a holiday book to your kids, everyone making Christmas cookies together, or the kids snuggled up watching a holiday movie. You’ll treasure these images later, trust me.
6. Avoid Flash
As a photographer, I could talk about lighting all day. But I suggest you avoid flash if possible. If you’re trying to capture the moment and need the flash, certainly use it. However, flash can create harsh light and even the dreaded red eyes. If you need light for a photo, try using a lamp or light from a window.
7. Capture Connections
Try to focus on capturing moments of connection instead of always posed photos. Photos of your kids hugging their grandparents, playing with cousins, or sitting on Santa’s lap are priceless. These moments show the relationships and joy that make the holidays special.
8. Remember Group Shots
Don’t let another year go by without a group shot! This can be of the entire extended family or just your nuclear family. Use the self-timer if you need to. Keep it light and quick—kids are more likely to cooperate if they know it won’t take long.
9. Make it Fun
Trying too hard can result in tears and bad memories. To take better photos of your kids that are happy and genuine, turn it into a game and have fun! If it’s not working right now, take a break and try again another time. I have a few additional tips for creative and fun ideas for children here.
10. Get in The Photos
If you are a parent or guardian reading these tips, my last one is for you to get in the photos of the kids. They will love having these photos of you.
Washington DC Children’s Photographer
As a Washington DC children’s portrait photographer, I truly hope these tips are helpful to you. If you use any of these tips, I would love to see how they turn out. Please send them to me on social media or email me any photos you take!
If you are curious about professional photography for your children, visit my children’s page.
Happy holidays!
