Tips For Photographing the Holidays
It’s holiday time and with it comes a certain amount of energy…you know the hustle and bustle of shopping and social events, family trips and celebrations. In the flurry of activity and non-stop-ness that is December, you will surely be snapping away and end up with a huge collection of photos.
As you document your holiday season be sure to take pictures of different kind of content and using different techniques or perspectives. That way when you create a photo album or hang your art on the wall you have a collection of memories that reflect the joy and wonder of the season.
Tip #1 :: Think Candid!
Let’s face it, our go to when taking pictures of others is to ask them to pose. You know, group them all together, make them face the camera and smile. Not bad but not authentic either. Now that we have cameras so easily at out disposal keep it handy when you’re circling your party or gathering. Is there an unlikely group of people playing board games? Snap a pic. A group huddled up around a fire? Snap a pic. Maybe the dog just tore apart some presents under the tree? Snap a pic. Nothing is normal about this time of year which makes for good memories so think outside of the posed box and just shoot from the hip.
Tip #2 :: Mix it up with food!
So much of life happens in the kitchen! And during the holiday season there’s sure to be a lot of action coming from the kitchen and dining rooms. Get in there with your camera and get pictures of grandma baking her famous pies, or the kids making sugar cookies. Maybe this year you actually photo or video document that recipe you’ve always wanted to learn. And don’t forget when it’s all done to snap pictures of the delicious finished product. Nothing beats amazing food photos! Keep your camera close during dinner too. You know that kids table always has some kind of commotion to capture. Food is life so bring it into your holiday photos.
Tip #3 :: Plan for family photos
I’m not talking about having a photographer handy at your celebration, although if you need one I happen to know one ;) What I’m talking about is thinking ahead about gathering everyone together to commemorate the event. Where is there enough room to do it? Inside or outside? Do you need a tripod or will a selfie stick suffice? Should it be done earlier in the event or later? It sounds silly but if you don’t think these things through ahead of time then they won’t actually happen.
You might also want to consider setting up a photo booth of sorts. Is there a space at your event that you can set out some props and get people to take selfies? Maybe designate a time that you can take them for people? You could even give your event it’s own hashtag and then share photos that way. Photo booths are super popular right now, see what works for your people and give it a go.
Tip #4 :: Change your perspective
Here’s where the fun happens! Yes most pictures are taken at eye level, BUT there are so many creative ways to capture your memories just by changing your perspective. Lay on the floor and see if anyone has holiday socks on, click. Stand on a staircase and look down at the gathering, click. Maybe someone is half in a frame or silhouetted in a window, click. And don’t forget the details while you’re at it. Think pics of the flames in the fireplace, the twinkling lights on the trees, two people holding hands, the eyelashes of sleepy children eyes. Take a moment to take it all in. There is literally wonder everywhere when we change our perspective.
Tip #5 :: Holiday travel
So many of us travel during the holidays. Whether it be by plane, train, or automobile keep that camera handy to get some good travel photos. What kind of decorations are there in the airport? Take selfies of yourself in the backseat or out the window. What kind of pit stops do you make along the way; convenience store or roadside attractions? This all adds to the memory of your season so have fun with it. Remember this is your story, you get to tell it however you want.
My last tip is maybe my most important one…BE PRESENT! Taking all of these photos is awesome but being there in the moment is even better. Don’t let that camera (or phone) in your face get in the way of you truly enjoying yourself and those around you. Pictures are supposed to add something to your life not steal your life away.
That’s it my friends! I hope you have a safe and happy holiday season.
All My Love,
