Parenting Advice Articles
10 Tips for Great Holiday Photos
- Details
- Category: activities
- Published on Saturday, 05 December 2009 17:25
- Written by Michelle
- Hits: 1791
Are you the designated family photographer? There are definitely benefits to this position, I know for me it means that I won't be subjected to being in the photos. The holidays are almost here and there are going to be plenty of moments that you will want to capture. As a professional child and baby photographer I know that it can be a real struggle to get your kids to stay in one place, close together and with natural smiles. I'm going to share 10 tips that will help you get beautiful photos of your kids this holiday season. 
1. The first thing you need to do to fulfill your duty as a top notch family photographer is be prepared. Make sure you have fresh batteries and an empty memory card in your camera. Also keep your camera in a convenient place where you will be able to grab it when something special is happening.
2. Make a list of a bunch of shots that you know you want the get over the holidays. If on that list is a group shot of the entire family make sure you do it soon after everyone has arrived. Nobody is going to look good or be enthusiastic after two serving of turkey dinner, three glasses of wine and apple pie for dessert. And the kids will likely be crashing from too much sugar and excitement. Depending on the size of your family have everyone pile onto the couch together or sitting on steps is also nice. Pictures where everyone is standing in a line always feel uncomfortable to me. Have smaller children sit on larger family members laps and check to see that everyone's face is visible and not hidden by other family members. Get everyone in close together, even closer than may feel comfortable. That way you won't have to stand too far back to get everyone in the shot.
3. Natural light tends to be much more flattering than flash. Next time you take your kids skating or tobogganing, bring your camera along. A way to use natural light indoors is to have your kids sit by a window this can be quite lovely. Because there is such a limited amount of day light in December you will at some point have to resort to using a flash. Just remember to stand a distance back and zoom in, otherwise you will wash out your subject.
4. Be aware of your surroundings and kids clothing. Check to make sure there is nothing distracting in the background like a garbage can or people you don't know. Things like logos or silly graphics on clothing can ruin an otherwise really fantastic shot. If you know there are going to be a lot of photos taken on a certain day stick to solid colours, bold patterns or traditional patterns like plaid and argyle. All the kids in a similar style and colour can make a big difference.
5. Good composition will make or break a good photo. Get down on their level and get close up. Move around and try angles you wouldn't normally. Your subject does not always need to be centered. You'll be surprised what will happen when you get more creative. Go to sites like Flickr and look at other peoples pictures and see what you like. It's much easier to get a good shot if you have a few images in your head to inspire you.
6. Natural smiles are important, I'd rather a contemplative face than a fake smile any day. During the holiday season there will be plenty of opportunities to capture photos of genuine smiles. When treats are given out ask your kids to smile as they bite down into a cookie or unwrap a candy cane. Christmas morning as they unwrap presents is a fantastic time to have your camera handy. Also as when they first see Grandparents and other family members.
7. Sometimes I find the best shots are when your children are relaxed, if someone other than yourself is reading a story to them or they are playing quietly with new toys, don't let them know you are there and sneak a couple shots.
8. Every family has a traditions during the holiday season. This could be an excellent opportunity to get shots of your kids together. Things like decorating the tree, building a ginger bread house or lighting a menorah candle together are incredible sweet moments that are also fantastic photo opportunities. If there is a baby in the mix have older children hug them or offer presents to them.
9. Something to watch out for is becoming overbearing with the camera. You don't want your family members running from the room when they see you coming because they fear you'll snap yet another photo of them. However, they will likely be more forgiving if the photographer is one of the kids. Arm your kids with disposable cameras and ask them to take photos of each other and things they love. You may be pleasantly surprised by a budding photographer!
10.The most important thing to remember when taking pictures of kids is patience. If they aren't into it, don't force them. You will never get a good shot if your child is frustrated. The last thing you want is for your child to associate a camera with upset mom. They will think that family portrait time is punishment. Photos tend to be much better when kids don't know you are taking them so unless you really need a particular shot don't announce that you are taking their picture. Have your camera handy and when your kids are doing something they enjoy bring it out for a few minutes and tuck it back away. If you have fun with it and get creative you will be guaranteed to get some fantastic festive family portraits this year.
