5 Tips on How to Take Your Own Holiday Photos :: Wilmington NC Family Photographer

I know, I must be breaking some type of photographer code. But, the fact is I always get a lot of last-minute inquiries from clients requesting a holiday photo session. Truth is, if you haven't had your photos taken by now, chances are it's too late. I know. It's only Dec. 1st. But most photographers book holiday photo sessions about six weeks out, and for valid reasons... but rather than go into all of that demogorgon (appropriate use of the term?), I'm going to focus on the positive and attempt to provide you with a little solace and maybe, just maybe, help you through this tiny conundrum. THIS year! (Next year, you're hiring a professional!) So, are you ready? (I can't believe I'm doing this.) 

5 Tips on How to Take Your Own Holiday Photos

(Disclaimer: In no way am I advising you to take your own holiday photos. I'm simply providing an alternative in the event you find yourself sans photographer, sans photos, sans christmas cards, sans love from your family because they've disowned you for failing at being a good parent, child, sibling, etc. Additionally, this alternative may cause severe headaches, nausea, anxiety, distemperment in dogs - and children, and overall self-loathing.)

1. Location, location, location

Location determines everything. Indoor or outdoor, both have their fair amount of advantages, disadvantages, and challenges. Either way my best advice is to consider and evaluate both before making a decision. Indoor locations will need the proper space and lighting. (Optimally, a room with two or three north or south facing windows with a perpendicular wall that is neutral and light in color and at least 12 feet long (family of 5) and where it's possible to establish a depth of about 8-feet from your subject. Follow me? Haha!!) You'll also want to survey the lighting and the way it moves through the space during the day beforehand to determine the best time to photograph your family. I know this can sound overwhelming but if you have any questions, feel free to drop me a line. Honestly, shooting indoors is challenging but it can also be more fun, given the sheer creativity that can go into designing backdrops, buying props, etc. Plus, it's a great way to include your kids in the process.

Or you can just go outside, haha! An outdoor location such as a park, farm, arboretum, or even your backyard are great options. Look for rows of evergreens, holly, barns or rustic fence lines to serve as a backdrop. Additionally, I would suggest early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting conditions. 

2. Equipment

Contrary to what you may believe and the tech industry tells you, you don't need have the best camera or a new camera to create a great image. Rock what you own! An iPhone, zoom lens point-and-shoot, or DSLR will work just fine. Know your camera's settings including the timer and if you have access to a remote, even better. In addition, I would highly suggest a tripod or a very, very patient friend. (I'd go with the tripod.) 

3. Lie

Yes, I'm encouraging you to lie. Okay, maybe not lie exactly but omit the truth. Do not. Under any circumstances. Tell your young children. THEY are going to have their pictures taken. Sure, they may make the deduction but don't make it an "event". Prior to meeting my clients' children, I ask them not to tell their children who I am or why I'm there. I simply ask them to tell their children that "our friend Kim is coming with us" to go to the park, etc. ... or "we are going over to our friend Kim's house to play," etc. The reason for this is Murphy's Law. Plain and simple. You get what I'm saying. 

4. Editing

Editing can be super fun and a breeze... if you know what you're doing and you have access to professional editing software. Otherwise, it can be a nightmare. This is why focusing on creating great photos "in camera" is so important. They require very little tweaking and a slight increase in contrast and/or brightness can go a long way. But if you get stuck or need help editing a few photos, I heard that there's this girl that offers retouching services ;)

5. Have Fun

Let go of perfectionism and all of those Pinterest-induced expectations! Take breaks, play, use bribes ONLY when ABSOLUTELY necessary, create memories, take joy in your family, and have fun creating some art!