I've officially become that crazy person that starts thinking about the Christmas card in October. I love picking out what we're going to wear and the perfect location, but I think my favorite part is that Kyle and I get to take pictures together. He's normally behind the camera taking my picture so it's fun that he gets to step on the other side for a change! I thought I would share some tips on how to style your Christmas pictures and how to take them if you don't have anyone to help!
While I'm all for everyone wearing what they're comfortable in and I actually recommend that over dressing up, try to stick to a specific color scheme. I think it makes the pictures look so much more uniform, especially if you've got a larger group. I went with blue this year because it's a color that looks good on both of us and we have a ton of it in our closets!
Impromptu pictures can turn out great, I highly recommend scouting out a location beforehand so you can avoid any mishaps! Finding somewhere that has either a solid or uniform background that contrasts the color you picked for clothes will let the focus be on you and your family. I also recommend trying to take your pictures outdoors if at all possible. Indoor lighting can be really warm and harsh if it's overhead while natural outdoor light is a lot more complimentary (especially if you've got really fair skin like me).
We actually decided to take our pictures by ourselves this year and although it was a little tricky, I think they turned out just fine! We ended up using our tripod, but if you don't have one of those you can definitely use a high barstool or an inexpensive flexible and attachable tripod like this (under $20). If at all possible, try to find somewhere with level ground too so you don't have to worry about angles and trying to make sure everyone fits in the picture height wise! Most cameras have timers these days, but you can also buy a wireless remote that is also really inexpensive based off the brand of your camera.
The most important part of taking photos that you and others will love is to have fun and be yourself! Let you personalities shine through whether that be through what you're wearing or by taking silly pictures along with more serious ones. For our family, the most important part of making sure everyone has patience and actually has fun taking pictures is to make sure we've all had something to eat beforehand! It sounds like something really minor, but we have a tendency to go from just fine to hangry in less than 5 minutes!
I hope this helps you take some great family pictures whether they be for Christmas cards or just to put around your house. I'll be ordering our cards this weekend (still deciding on design!), and will share the final product once they arrive!
xoxo,
Kathryn
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