Every year it happens the same way. It's the first week of December, you find the box of cards you meant to order, and you realize you don't have a single decent photo of your family from the last twelve months. Or you do have one, and everyone is squinting.
Holiday card photos don't have to be a source of stress. With a little planning and a photographer who knows how to keep things relaxed, you can get a photo that looks like your real family on a good day, and still get your cards in the mail on time. Here's how.
Why holiday card photos often go wrong
Most of us treat the card photo like a performance. Everyone gets dressed up, the kids get promised treats, someone barks "smile!" and thirty frames later you're all exhausted. The photo that makes the card is usually the one where nobody looks too miserable.
The fix isn't a better pose. It's a different goal. Instead of trying to get everyone looking at the camera with perfect smiles at the same time, aim for photos where your family is actually enjoying each other. Those are the ones people keep on the fridge long after the holidays.
Christen, whose daughter has done a session with me, said I "made her feel so comfortable." That's what I care about most. When the people in front of the camera are comfortable, the photos take care of themselves.
Work backward from your mail date
The biggest holiday card mistake is starting too late. Here's a simple timeline for this year, working backward from mailing your cards in mid-December.
By Friday, November 20: book your session. Evenings and weekends fill up first, especially the last two weekends of November.
Between now and Saturday, November 28: have your session. That gives us room to reschedule if the weather doesn't cooperate.
About a week later: your gallery arrives. My standard turnaround is about one week, delivered through a private online gallery. Katy, a recent client, noted the "quick turn around time," and I work hard to keep it that way.
By about December 5: pick your favorite and order your cards. Many card companies print and ship within a few days, but December orders pile up, so earlier is safer.
By about December 14: mail them. That gives most cards time to reach friends and family before Christmas.
If you're reading this later than November 20, don't panic. Reach out anyway and tell me your deadline. I'll tell you honestly what's possible.
Concept ideas that aren't just Santa hats
You don't have to go with a traditional holiday theme to make a great card. Here are a few ideas that tend to look warm and real.
Cozy at home. Matching pajamas aren't required, but cozy sweaters, a blanket, a mug of hot chocolate, and your own Christmas tree make a beautiful, personal setting. Home sessions are also easier with little kids and older relatives.
Downtown at dusk. String lights, brick walls, and the glow of early evening give photos a festive feel without any props. Sunset arrives around 5:00 p.m. in December, so we'll want to start a little before.
Outdoors in winter light. Bare trees, soft light, and cozy layers can look more romantic than a summer shoot. Central Arkansas winters are usually chilly rather than frozen, which makes outdoor sessions very doable.
Candid and silly. Walking together, throwing leaves, making a snow angel on the rare snowy day, or just laughing at the dog. These are the photos people wind up loving most.
Include the pets. Carson, who booked a session with her partner noted that I "included our dog and was so good with her." If your pet is part of your family, they belong on the card.
What to wear
You don't need matching outfits. In fact, I'd skip them. Pick a color palette of three or four shades that look good together, like cream, rust, forest green, and denim, and let everyone wear something different within that range. Layers like scarves, cardigans, and jackets add texture and keep everyone warm. Avoid big logos and loud patterns, which can look busy on a card.
If you want more detail, my guide to what to wear to your photoshoot walks through colors, textures, and shoes.
Make your photos card-friendly
A little planning goes a long way when it comes time to design your card.
Ask for room for text. Many cards put a greeting or your names over the photo. Tell me your card style and I'll shoot a few vertical and horizontal frames with open space for text.
Plan for one photo or several. Some cards feature a single large image, while others use a collage. We'll shoot enough variety for either.
Choose your favorite candid. A card with one great laughing photo beats one with a perfectly posed group every time.
Think about the back, too. Many cards print a second photo on the back, so your favorite runner-up can have a moment.
Tips for a smooth winter session
Keep it short. Cold hands and tired kids don't make for good photos. A relaxed session of about an hour is plenty.
Bring warm layers. A coat for between shots keeps everyone happy.
Pack snacks and a thermos. A warm drink helps kids and adults alike.
Have a backup plan. If it rains, we can move indoors or reschedule.
Let kids be kids. The best card photo might come while someone is dancing around, so I'll keep shooting through the wiggles.
Marilyn, whose family hired me for a quinceañera, said I was "super friendly and was a pleasure to have around." I want your family to have the same experience, from the first message to the final gallery.
What it costs
Sessions start at $100 for individuals, and the price depends on the session type. I'll walk you through what's included before you book. Your gallery includes a full album of originals plus up to 10 high-end retouched images, which gives you plenty to choose from for your card, your phone background, and a framed print for the hallway.
Let's get your card photos done
The sooner you book, the more flexibility we have. If you're ready to skip the stress and get photos that feel like your family, I'd love to hear from you.
Want a card photo you'll love? Book a holiday session and tell me your deadline, your crew, and the vibe you're going for. I'll take it from there.
