Holiday 2009
Holiday Cards
How to take your holiday card photo

Don’t stress about dress

Busy holiday patterns are great for pajamas but not for family photos. We recommend wearing solid colors that are seasonally appropriate. Black-and-white photography is flattering for everyone and pairs well with modern, whimsical and classic card styles. It’s easy to make a color photo black-and-white when you personalize your card.

Go for variety

Family photo portraits can appear flat—so sit, stand and kneel to energize the scene. Parents can sit and kids can stand, make a pyramid, or get a fun shot of everyone trying to make a pyramid.

Lighten up

When shooting indoors forego the flash by flooding the house with natural or artificial light. The flash can produce a cold effect and red-eye. When shooting outdoors, use the flash. The extra burst of light helps even out shadows. Wherever you’re shooting, be sure the main light source is behind the photographer.

Tighten the frame

Capture the playfulness of the holidays with close-ups of kids or pets. There’s nothing cuter than children and pets vying to be front and center.

Shooting spree

The more photos you take the better your chances are of getting one that’s just right. Shoot between shots to capture candid, fun and unexpected moments. Be sure to bring extra batteries if your family photo shoot is on location.

Ask a friend or neighbor

Make sure you get in the shot too by asking a friend or neighbor to take your holiday photo for you. You can even offer to return the favor for their holiday card.


Find perfect holiday cards to match your photos »

More articles:

» Get organized—a holiday timeline

» How to take your holiday card photo

» Choosing photos for your holiday card

» Choosing the perfect holiday card

» A few of our favorite holiday cards

» Make it match—holiday sets

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