3 Tips For Taking the Perfect Christmas Card Photos
It’s that time of year again — Christmas card season! As a photographer in Destin, Florida, I get many inquiries this time of year from locals and visitors who are in need of family photos for their annual holiday cards. Most people in Destin want to take advantage of the gorgeous beaches, so we take these photos with the white sand and sparkling turquoise water as the background. However, there are also more woodsy options in the area, too, that allow for a more seasonal feel. Personally, I love picking a theme and location that is significant to us that year. For example, I did a beach photo with our new address the year we moved to Destin. This year we did a lot of traveling, so I took advantage of the natural beauty in Estes Park, CO to get a quality shot.
If you’re in the midst of planning your holiday card, here are a few tips for getting the perfect family photo:
- Let your photographer know if you have a design already picked out. This will determine whether you need a vertical or horizontal shot and if there should be any open space for text. For example, I plan on using the photo above that we took in Estes Park because I like that “Merry Christmas” can fit over the mountains and sky.
- Coordinate outfits, but don’t make them too matchy matchy. Wear colors and patterns that complement each other rather than everyone wearing the same thing (i.e. jeans and a white T-shirt). Stick with a coastal color palette, earthy tones or nice neutrals. Here is my guide with more tips about what to wear for family photos.
- Keep poses fun and natural. Let your holiday cheer shine through with a natural smile! You don’t want your pose to be too stiff. I love capturing candid moments where family members are laughing or genuinely smiling.
If you are looking for a 30A or Destin photographer for your Christmas card photos, send me an email or message me on Instagram! I’d love to capture your family!
