Simple Tips for Taking Better Family Photos During the Holidays

The holiday season is the perfect time to capture the joy and warmth of your family. Whether you’re planning to send out cards or simply create lasting memories, holiday family photos are something you’ll treasure for years to come. As an award-winning Raleigh family photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how a few simple tips can make a huge difference in the quality of your photos. Here are five essential tips for taking better family photos this holiday season.

1. Choose the Right Lighting

Good lighting is key to any great family photo. As a Raleigh family photographer, I always recommend shooting during “golden hour”—the first hour after sunrise or the last hour before sunset. This soft, warm light creates flattering shadows and brings out natural skin tones. If you’re indoors, make use of natural light near windows to avoid harsh artificial lighting. Natural light will make your family’s smiles shine even brighter and add that warm holiday glow to your photos.

2. Coordinate Outfits

What you wear matters! While you don’t need to match exactly, coordinating your outfits can help create a cohesive look. As an award-winning Raleigh family photographer, I often suggest soft colors like neutrals, pastels, or rich tones that work well together. Avoid busy patterns or logos that can distract from the subjects in the photo.

3. Capture Candid Moments

Some of the best holiday photos are the candid ones—the laughter, hugs, and spontaneous joy that come naturally when everyone is together. Instead of focusing solely on posed shots, take time to capture these genuine interactions. As a Raleigh family photographer, I’ve found that candid moments often tell the true story of a family’s holiday spirit. Whether it’s a child opening a gift or a family member sharing a laugh, these unposed moments will bring life and authenticity to your photos. I like to have my phone out for the first couple minutes of Christmas morning, and then put it away to soak in the magic with my family.

4. Get Creative with Your Composition

Great family photos aren’t just about getting everyone in the frame—they’re about telling a story. Experiment with different angles and compositions. Have some family members sit while others stand, or capture close-ups of hands holding gifts or exchanging a hug. When you’re outside, incorporate the beautiful natural elements, like snowy backdrops or festive holiday lights. Creativity in your composition can turn a simple family portrait into a work of art, and as an award-winning Raleigh family photographer, I know this attention to detail can make a photo truly special.

5. Edit with a Light Touch

Once you’ve captured your perfect family moments, a little editing can enhance your photos. Brighten up the exposure, adjust the contrast, and sharpen the details—but keep it subtle. Over-editing can strip away the natural warmth of your family photos. As a Raleigh family photographer, I always recommend a light touch when editing to preserve the real beauty of the moment. Whether you’re using a professional photo-editing program or an app on your phone, just make sure your photos still feel authentic and true to the spirit of the holidays. For my own iPhone photos, I love using Amy & Jordan’s presets on Lightroom and then tweaking them ever so slightly. It saves time and makes everything feel cohesive!

Black and white photos can also be your friend! Don’t be afraid to try black and white!

Final Thoughts

Family photos are one of the most precious ways to document your holiday memories. Whether you’re taking professional photos with an award-winning Raleigh family photographer or capturing memories on your own, these tips can help ensure that your images stand out. With the right lighting, coordination, and a little creativity, your holiday photos will not only be beautiful but will also capture the true essence of your family’s love and holiday spirit.

Happy holidays, and happy photographing! 📸