The holiday season is one of the busiest, but magical times for any photographer specializing in family portraits. Photoshoots with dozens of families mean creating unforgettable memories for them. But, you also have to deal with the challenges this type of photoshoot entails.   

I’ve put together some tried and tested tips for handling holiday family photoshoots with grace and success.  

Prepare the scene 

Every Christmas scene is like a little story you want your clients to experience. This year, I prepared four scenes: two darker ones for a more intimate atmosphere, and two bright ones for fresh and happy photos. 

The next step is making the decorations. I wanted to make an arch, which I used to have in my studio. I decided to make one out of cardboard, hollow fiber filling, and lights in the shape of the Moon. I placed these on a dark background to create a dreamy scene, perfect for children. 

Once everything is ready, I decorate the scene for the photoshoot. I can use the photos and videos for marketing purposes. Then, I share everything on social media, including available time slots. I start preparing at the end of summer, so after taking promotional photos and videos, I put everything away and continue with regular photoshoots. 

Tips for different types of holiday scenes

Dark scenes: Use warm lighting like Christmas lights and candles to create a magical, cozy setting. Have clients wear darker, bolder colors like red, burgundy, teal, etc.  

Bright scenes: Use bright fabrics, fur coats, a white or snowy Christmas tree, and props that evoke lightness and joy. Then, have clients wear lighter muted earth tones like beige, brown, and green, but also more festive colors like silver or gold.   

Scheduling your photoshoots

I usually photograph over 70 families during the Christmas season which requires thorough organization and preparation. Each shoot should be scheduled for a specific time slot that allows plenty of time for interaction, scene changes, and clean up. I schedule sessions with half-hour breaks in between, and I have a maximum of ten families booked each day.  

Working with families

Working with families, especially children, requires a sensitive approach. Create a friendly atmosphere where both parents and children feel comfortable. I always compliment the family when they come dressed up and thank them for their punctuality. I get to know both the parents and children and let them choose the Christmas scene they want for their photoshoot. If they are interested, I offer a few pieces of clothing accessories for the adults and children to use.

Engaging and working with children

Children are often the most challenging part of a holiday shoot, but they also bring the most joy. Here are specific ways to work with them during a photoshoot:

1. First impressions and establishing trust

Take time to get to know the children before taking any pictures. Talk to them, compliment their outfits, or toys they brought. Show them the holiday scenes and decorations, and ask them which one they like best. This helps children relax and helps them not be afraid in unfamiliar settings.  

2. A playful approach

Talk to children at their level, and use jokes or stories to engage them. For example, you can tell them they are the stars of a Christmas story, or that the photos they take can be added to their letters to Santa Claus. 

3. Interaction and games

Encourage children to play with the scene, explore the props, or act out different funny expressions. Try playing simple games like “don’t be the first to laugh” or “hidden treasure hunt,” where they search for small decorations in the scene. 

4. Getting children’s attention

Use sound effects, whistles, or toys that make sounds to get children’s attention. You can also play “magician” and do magic tricks to get their attention.

5. Encouragement and praise

Praise the children throughout the shoot for how well they are working. Positive feedback motivates them and helps them stay focused. 

6. A small reward at the end

At the end of the shoot, always give children a small reward. This makes them happy, but also helps them associate the photoshoot with a positive experience. I most often give the kids candy or a lollipop to reward their patience and cooperation.  

Technical aspects

Camera settings and the right lighting are key to a successful holiday shoot, like with any shoot. 

Lighting 

For dark scenes, I use flash with a softbox. I always position them from the side so that the shadows from the other side are highlighted and the faces don’t appear flat. I set the flash to its lowest power settings so that the Christmas lights stand out at least a little bit to emphasize the magical atmosphere.  

For bright scenes, I make the most of daylight or use very diffused lighting. 

Camera settings

I shoot using the lowest f-number so the photos appear soft and I don’t have to unnecessarily increase ISO. Although in lower light conditions, I may set the ISO as high as 2000, but with a shutter speed of 1/200-250.

Post-production

It’s important to get the best possible photos when shooting, but post-production adds the final magic touch. 

Color correction

Make sure you have consistent color toning that matches the mood of the holiday season. Greater contrast gives off a mysterious atmosphere, and warm tones evoke warmth and coziness.

Overlays and added effects

Add decorative elements to your photograph using Zoner Photo Studio X using overlays to create an even more festive atmosphere. For example, lights, bokeh, and other effects, to add a sparkly and festive touch to your images. Just select the appropriate overlay layer, adjust its transparency, and fine-tune its position or rotation if necessary to make the effect look as natural as possible. 

In closing

Holiday photoshoots are all about capturing a unique atmosphere, spontaneous moments, and beautiful emotions. Prepare holiday scenes, do your homework, and above all, have fun. If you enjoy the shoot, it will show on your clients’ faces.   

Wishing you the best of luck in your holiday photography, Terka