Happy Holidays!

We are now in the midst of the holiday season. Food, parties, family gatherings, and... greeting cards. Yes, it is also holiday card season. Many people just slap their names on a card with Santa on the cover and call it good. But for those who go the whole nine yards and take a family photo to send out, I'd like to give you some tips.

Please, don't copy the Kardashian's Christmas Card. 

First off, you want everyone to look nice. Make sure everyone's hair is done and their is no food on the kids' faces. No dramatic make-up on the teenagers either. We also want everyone in nice clothes. No, don't pull out your prom dress. Just a nice simple shirt and pants, maybe dresses for the little ones. Double check for stains or rips that might be seen on camera. Also consider coordinating colors. If a family all wears shades of red for example, the picture will look more uniform. Just try to stay away from crazy patterns or anything that may take focus away from the family. Unless they're Christmas sweaters!

Next up is the back ground. A festive scene is encouraged for a Christmas card. Maybe standing in front of the tree or other decorations.Don't be afraid to use props! Another option would be taking your family photo outside. A snowy scene would be nice, but a picture taken during a non-winter season would work too. When taking an outdoor picture, you want to be sure to have enough light.

When taking family photos, you need to have a game plan. Have the places and poses already planned out and ready to go. People get grouchy when they are being drug around too much and have to wait 15 minutes for a picture. So, keep the people happy and make it fast. You may also consider keeping the trouble making kids on opposite sides. Kids like to mess around and will make the process take longer if they are trying to play the whole time. 

Last but not least, try to make it fun! Real smiles are better than fake ones. If everyone is having fun you will have a more authentic and happy looking family.

“Our hearts grow tender with childhood memories and love of kindred, and we are better throughout the year for having, in spirit, become a child again at Christmas-time.” 
― Laura Ingalls Wilder