Trying to squeeze in a holiday photo session? There are plenty of photographers who are still booking Holiday Mini Photo Sessions (myself included).
Do you want the photo to serve as a holiday remembrance to hang on your wall each season? Will you be using the photo for your Hanukkah or Christmas cards? Gifting it to grandma for Kwanzaa?
Get on a photographer’s calendar as soon as you can, then…make sure you follow my tips for a great holiday photo session so you are prepared and ready for your photo shoot!
Here are my tips for a Great Holiday Photo Session:
YOUR LOOK
- Dress appropriately for the holiday scene you want to portray. Chances are that the current weather is different than it will be at the peak time of your holiday celebration.
- Wear the same or complimentary color. Will you be wearing colors that are universally associated with the holiday you celebrate?
- Focus on one color, varying accessories (belts, scarfs, holiday hats)
- Wear solid colors, or solid with only one person wearing a pattern
- Choose outfits that each individual is comfortable wearing.
- Try on your outfits in advance; make sure they are all clean, ironed, fit well, and look good together
- Avoid commercial logos if possible
- Choose shoes that will be worn during the season. Covered toes? Tall boots? Ankle boots? Slippers?
- Schedule your hair appointment a week or two in advance
- Do you have scars or tattoos? Do you want them to show?
YOUR PROPS
- Adaptive equipment such as seating or mobility gear
- Favorite toy or holiday item to hold
- Will your pet be dressed for the holiday as well?
YOUR SETTING
- Where is everyone at ease? Does someone have a “happy place?”
- What is the best time of day? When is everyone awake, alert, and happy?
- Will you pose in your home? Your yard?
- Will you pose in a public area like in a favorite park or playground, or at the lake?