Holiday Cards – Capturing the Moments

It’s just about time to start selecting holiday cards, which means if you haven’t already taken the perfect annual photo, there’s still some time. There are several tips to getting the perfect picture – one that relays and reflects your family’s personality.

Most professional photographers agree that the key to success is to take lots of photos. While this wasn’t an option a generation ago (with the time and cost of prints), today’s amateur photographers can point and shoot ‘til their heart’s content with digital ease. One or two blinking kids or grandmas is a guarantee. And the number of people involved in the picture is directly related to the level of difficulty. The chances of success diminish significantly with pets so shoot away.

Whether you’re using a professional photographer or a selfie stick, don’t limit yourself to staged, rigid poses. Smiling should not look stiff and painful. If you’re going for a specific pose, make it look and feel natural. Otherwise be open to taking shots during walks, board games, family dinners, or car rides.

Think candid. Not everyone needs to be looking directly into the lens. Whether you’re mid shot or trying to capture a relaxed moment, some of the best pictures can be when people have their guard down and are truly themselves – everyone laughing and looking at each other. Shoot quickly and often through the “session.” Capture emotion, not just smiles. In the right moment you can capture exhilaration, respect, peace, adoration, or pure happiness.

This brings us to multiple shots. The best thing about the over-accessibility of holiday cards is options. You don’t have to go with one pose. Many layouts are comprised of multiple images – allowing families to capture the moments and personality of each member through various events and activities. If you’re not striking a particular pose, get pics of your subjects cooking, painting, playing, listening, or laughing and create a collage that shows your loved ones what your family is really about.