The holiday season is a time for gathering with loved ones and making memories that last a lifetime. One of the best ways to preserve those memories is through family portraits. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just capturing moments on your phone, these essential tips will help you create stunning holiday photos that are perfect for showcasing in custom frames.
1. Plan Your Location
If you’re shooting indoors, position your family near a large window to take advantage of soft, natural light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can create harsh shadows and washed-out images. If you’re taking photos at night or in low light, use warm artificial lights that mimic natural light to create a cozy atmosphere.
2. Use Natural Light When Possible
When you come in, our framers will dive right in with some questions. We’ll want to know the significance of your piece and why you want to frame it. Be sure to share if it has value (whether sentimental or financial) since that can affect framing choices. We’ll also want to know your decor style—this is where those pictures come in handy! If the custom frame will be a gift, share what you know about the recipient’s decor style. Lastly, tell us about any vision you have for framing the piece so we can tailor your suggestions accordingly.
3. Coordinate Outfits Thoughtfully
Matching outfits aren’t necessary, but coordinating colors can create a cohesive and harmonious look. Stick to neutral or complementary colors that won’t clash with the background or each other. For an extra touch of festivity, consider subtle patterns or textured fabrics that photograph well.
4. Get Creative with Poses
While traditional posed shots are always classic, candid moments can add charm and authenticity to your portraits. Capture interactions between family members, like sharing a laugh or baking together. For posed shots, play with levels—have some family members seated while others stand or lean in. This adds dimension and keeps the photo interesting.
5. Keep It Fun
Family portraits should be a joyful experience, not a chore. Incorporate fun items like festive hats, holiday mugs, or strings of lights to keep the energy light and playful. If you’re photographing young children, give them small tasks like holding a prop or placing a decoration to keep them engaged.
6. Mind the Details
Before snapping away, take a quick look at the background and ensure there’s nothing distracting, such as clutter or unintentional objects. Details matter—the lighting on faces and even the spacing between subjects can shift a photo. Pay attention to these little things to elevate your image from amateur to professional.
7. Perfect Your Composition
For a balanced shot, use the rule of thirds—imagine your photo divided into nine equal sections. Position your subjects along these lines or at the intersections for a more dynamic photo. This composition technique draws the eye to key points in the image and makes the portrait more visually appealing.
8. Capture Multiple Shots
Don’t settle for just one photo. Take multiple shots, varying poses, expressions, and angles. You never know when you’ll catch that perfect moment. This way, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from when selecting the best shot to frame.
9. Edit with Care
A little editing can go a long way. Use a simple photo editor to adjust brightness, contrast, and color balance to make the image pop without losing its natural look. Simple edits can make your photo look more polished and professional, enhancing its warmth and charm.
The Finishing Touch: Custom Framing Your Portraits
After all the effort you’ve put into capturing the perfect portrait, give it the showcase it deserves. Custom framing allows you to create a bespoke display for your special photo, so you can choose the ideal frame, mats, and more for your piece.
A custom-framed family portrait is more than just a photograph—it becomes a cherished piece of art that preserves a special moment in time. This holiday season, capture your family’s joy and let a custom frame make that moment last forever. Ready to transform your holiday memories into stunning keepsakes? Visit your local FastFrame store to explore all the beautiful options for your family portraits.
Want to know more about our complementary design services? Read Why You Need a Picture Frame Design Consultation.
