There’s something magical about holiday family photos. Whether you’re planning to print them for your annual Christmas card, frame them as keepsakes, or just preserve those cozy moments to look back on for years, getting the shot right matters. And the good news? You don’t need to be a professional photographer to take beautiful, meaningful pictures—you just need a little planning, a few thoughtful ideas, and your favorite people all in one place.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know to take your best-ever Christmas family photos. From choosing the right time and setting to coordinating outfits, picking the perfect poses, and turning your photos into holiday keepsakes, we’ll walk you through it all. So grab your camera (or your phone), cue the twinkle lights, and let’s make some memories.
When to Take Your Christmas Family Photos
The timeline before Christmas:
The best time to take your holiday photos is usually earlier than you think. If you’re planning to use them for your Christmas cards, aim to take your pictures 4–6 weeks before the holidays. That gives you enough time to edit your photos, choose your favorite one, design your cards, and get them in the mail—without the last-minute stress.
Don’t be afraid to take your photos earlier in the season if that’s when everyone’s available. You can still create a festive look by dressing in seasonal colors, incorporating cozy layers like scarves and sweaters, or posing with winter-inspired props like mugs of cocoa or evergreen branches. A little planning goes a long way in capturing that holiday feeling—even if the calendar says it’s still fall.
Choose the right time of day:
If you’re taking your photos outdoors, look for days with soft, natural light—cloudy days actually work great because there are no harsh shadows. Golden hour (just after sunrise or before sunset) is perfect for that warm, cozy glow. Prefer to stay indoors? Plan for mid-morning or early afternoon when natural light fills your space through the windows.
Where to Take Your Christmas Pictures
Your location can set the tone for your whole photo, whether you’re going for classic and cozy or bright and playful. Here are a few ideas:
At home:
Some of the most heartfelt holiday photos happen right in your living room. Set up near the Christmas tree, decorate your mantle with garland, or cuddle up on the couch in coordinating pajamas. Include meaningful décor that reflects your family traditions—stockings, photo Christmas ornaments, or even the family dog in reindeer antlers.
Outdoors:
If you’re lucky enough to live somewhere snowy, bundle up and take your pictures in a winter wonderland. A pine tree forest, a snow-covered park, or even your backyard with twinkling lights can make for a beautiful backdrop. Don’t worry if there’s no snow—string lights, evergreen trees, and scarves in festive colors can still make your setting feel seasonal.
Local spots:
Check out nearby Christmas tree farms, light displays, or holiday markets. These festive environments come with built-in charm—and often, fewer props to bring yourself.
Wherever you shoot, the most important thing is to choose a place that feels like you.
What to Wear for Christmas Family Photos
Choosing outfits for family photos doesn’t mean everyone needs to match head to toe. Instead, aim for a coordinated color palette that fits the season and your setting. Here’s what works beautifully for holiday shoots:
- Cozy classics: Deep reds, forest greens, creams, and grays always feel festive. Add textures like knit sweaters, flannel shirts, velvet dresses, or corduroy pants for visual interest.
- Subtle sparkle: Metallic accessories, sequined skirts, or shiny shoes can add a hint of holiday magic without stealing the show.
- Matching moments: Pajama sets for the whole family (yes, even the dog), matching scarves, or coordinated plaid flannels are perfect for at-home shoots.
- Avoid distractions: Skip logos or bright neon colors that might clash with your surroundings or each other.
Lay out all your outfits together beforehand to make sure the colors and patterns look balanced. And don’t forget warm layers if you’re shooting outdoors—frozen fingers and forced smiles don’t make for great photos.
Family Photo Poses That Feel Natural and Joyful
The best family photos often come from moments that don’t feel overly posed. But if you’re not sure what to do in front of the camera, here are a few tried-and-true ideas to get you started—and make sure everyone looks (and feels) their best.
Classic full-family poses:
- Standing or sitting together with everyone close—arms around each other, kids in front or on laps.
- Sitting on a couch or bench, with the group staggered in layers so faces are visible.
- Holding a “Merry Christmas” sign, wreath, or a wrapped gift for a festive prop.
Candid-style moments:
- Walking hand-in-hand toward the camera through snow or along a path.
- Wrapping up in a blanket together.
- Kids decorating the tree while parents watch.
- A spontaneous laugh, a bear hug, or a snowball fight—those real smiles always shine.
Little ones:
- Capture toddlers mid-giggle or looking up at the tree.
- Get down on their level—some of the sweetest shots come from kneeling or sitting with them.
- Have them hold a favorite holiday book, plush toy, or personalized ornament.
Keep it light and relaxed—encourage talking, laughing, and just being yourselves. Take more photos than you think you’ll need so you can capture both the “perfect” shot and the unexpected gems.
Don’t Forget the Details: Equipment and Lighting
You don’t need a professional camera to take great Christmas photos. A smartphone with a good camera, set up properly, can give you amazing results.
Tips for using your phone:
- Use portrait mode to create a blurred background and focus attention on your family.
- Clean your camera lens before shooting.
- Use natural light when possible, and avoid overhead lights that cast harsh shadows.
- A small tripod or phone stand can help you get steady, timed shots.
If you’re using a camera:
- Try a 35mm or 50mm lens for flattering portraits.
- Use a tripod and remote shutter so you can be in the photo too.
- Don’t be afraid to bump up ISO in low light, but avoid flash if possible—it can wash out faces and flatten the image.
Editing and Finishing Touches
Once you’ve chosen your favorite shots, a few light edits can bring your photos to life:
- Slightly warm up the color temperature for a cozy, golden tone.
- Increase brightness and contrast to make your photo pop.
- Straighten or crop the image to center your family.
- Use subtle filters to enhance mood—avoid anything too dramatic that takes away from the natural beauty.
Many photo apps make this easy, even on your phone. You don’t need to go overboard—just enough to polish your image so it shines on screen and in print.
Turn Your Photos Into Holiday Keepsakes
Once you’ve got your perfect family photo, don’t let it sit on your phone! This is the moment to turn it into something meaningful:
- Christmas cards: Choose from hundreds of beautiful designs to make your own custom Christmas card. Add text, embellishments, or a favorite quote.
- Photo books: Collect all your favorite shots from the season—tree trimming, baking cookies, opening gifts—and turn them into a holiday photo book your family can flip through for years to come.
- Personalized gifts: Turn your photo into a tabletop print, ornament, mug, or fleece blanket for grandparents or extended family.
- Wall art: Frame your favorite shot as part of your home’s holiday décor—or as a year-round memory.
- Photo calendars: Create a personalized calendar filled with your favorite family moments—one for each month. It’s a thoughtful, practical gift that keeps the holiday spirit going all year long.
You’ve already done the hard part—now it’s time to share those moments with the people you love most.
Your Christmas Family Photo Checklist
Before you say “cheese,” take a few minutes to make sure you have everything ready to make your photo session smooth, fun, and full of joy. Here’s a simple checklist to help you feel confident and prepared:
Before the shoot:
✅ Pick your date and time (aim for good light and everyone’s best mood)
✅ Choose your location and set the scene (indoors or out!)
✅ Coordinate outfits in a seasonal, cohesive color palette
✅ Pack any props—blankets, signs, ornaments, or holiday mugs
✅ Charge your phone or camera and clear space for photos
✅ Bring a tripod or stand for group shots
✅ Pack snacks and a small toy or treat for kids (or pets!) for cooperation and comfort
Day of the shoot:
✅ Do a quick weather check if you’re shooting outdoors
✅ Wipe camera lenses or phone lens for clean, crisp photos
✅ Have tissues, lint rollers, and maybe even hand warmers on hand
✅ Keep it lighthearted—laughter makes the best photos
✅ Snap more photos than you think you need—you’ll be glad you did
With a little preparation, your Christmas family photos can feel less like a chore and more like a moment worth remembering.
Make This Holiday Season Picture-Perfect
Taking Christmas pictures isn’t just about capturing the perfect shot—it’s about freezing a moment in time with the people you love most. Whether you’re wrangling toddlers in matching jammies, celebrating your first holiday as newlyweds, or gathering generations for a festive portrait, these images become keepsakes you’ll cherish year after year.
So don’t stress the small stuff. Focus on the joy, the togetherness, and the memories being made behind every smile and twinkle light. And once you’ve found that favorite photo? Turn it into something meaningful—a holiday card, a photo calendar, or a custom gift that spreads love far and wide.
From our Shutterfly family to yours, happy holidays and happy memory-making.
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