Capture the Holiday Magic: Tips for Great Photos of Loved Ones

DenverProposals

Mar 11

As we gather with our favorite people this holiday season, here are some tips to know when and how to take some quality snapshots.

Perfect Timing for Sunlit Shots:

As the winter sun sets early, around 4:30pm for Denver in December, planning your family outing or photo session for 3:00 or earlier ensures optimal natural lighting.

Indoor Winter Wonderland:

Too cold to hop outside? Wanting to capture some delightful candids indoors? Great winter photos can be captured inside too. Position your camera between your subjects and the largest window in the house to achieve even lighting. Even lighting on your subjects from the brightest light source will ensure people feel confident. Note: side lighting from the window will accentuate wrinkles.

Declutter for Picture-Perfect Frames:

With more people come more belongings, potentially cluttering your photos. Take a quick five minutes before capturing your official group photo. A clutter-free background ensures the focus remains on your family and the joy of the season.

Know When To Set The Camera Down, Read The Room

Let’s face it, not everyone loves photos. With my crew, I like to make sure we take one group photo a day. When the timing feels right, and I’ve figured out where the best lighting is, I’ll pull everyone in for a quick photo. This way my friends and family don’t feel inidated with photo ops, but I have memories to cherish forever.

Snow-Ready Photography:

For outdoor photo sessions, embrace the winter elements with proper layering. Hand warmers, warm beverages, gloves, glove liners, long underwear, and a quality coat can keep you comfortable for extended periods. Stay stylish and warm with sleek layers, and don't forget essential accessories like yak tracks or spikes if you’re heading out for a snowy hike.

The Story Method:

For weddings and events, I aim for 20% posed and 80% unposed photos to authentically document the day. To ensure you capture every aspect without disrupting the moment, focus on these essential shots:

Scene Setter: Capture the ambiance of your surroundings—whether it's twinkling lights on the house or a flour-covered kitchen.
VIPS: Ensure you have a good photo of each person.
Artifacts: Identify objects that help tell the story, whether it's frosting-covered fingers or delicious holiday treats.
Interaction/Peak Action: Document genuine moments, like hugs, cuddles, or playful snowball fights, to add a touch of authenticity to your photo collection.

This holiday season, make your photos of you and yours truly special with these expert tips. Whether you're chasing the winter sun or creating cozy indoor memories, these suggestions will help you capture the magic of the season and create photos that will be treasured for years to come. Happy snapping!

Catherine Norwood

I am Catherine Norwood, a designer and photographer from Lawrence, Kansas. My job experience ranges from childcare to leading a media team at a summer camp. I also am an experienced freelance photographer, capturing senior and family portraits, headshots, and portfolio pieces for a beauty stylist. Through my previous work experience I have photographed and worked with a diverse group of people. Through each piece I design and in each moment I photograph, I not only aim to create something visually intriguing and intellectually stimulating, but something that will better society. By working with both photography and design I keep my perspective fresh and I constantly find new ways they can enhance and work with one another. As a designer and photographer, I don't only look to reach past the lens and screen to create positive relationships with the subject, but to also capture various cultures and areas so I can help others become socially aware of their surroundings.