The holidays are upon us which means parties, dinners, and gatherings. A time to get together with loved ones we see regularly, and the ones we see less often. It’s also a time when a camera or phone is likely to be pulled out to document the occasion. Whether it’s you behind the lens or crazy Uncle Bob, I’ve got five tips to improve your photos today. Everyone will get a great picture, and you won’t have to worry about a picture of you with a mouth full of turkey being posted online or in the next family slideshow.
Tip 1: Go Outside
Outdoor light is always my very first choice for taking pictures. With the sun setting early in the winter it’s not always an option. However, if the sun is still out, take the party outside for pictures. Natural, soft light is goal for photographers everywhere. Look for a spot where the light is even, like in the shade on a bright sunny day. Avoid standing under trees or overhangs to prevent shadows under your eyes. You may have stayed up late the night before in prep mode, but posterity will never know if you’ve got soft even light filling in the shadows.
Tip 2: If Inside, Find a Window
If you have to be inside due to weather during the day, try to find a window. Turn off any interior lights and cozy up with your loved ones near a window. You’ll be able to get that same soft light without having to bundle up. If the sun is shining directly in the window, back up so nobody is in direct sunlight.
Tip 3: Change Your Height
Portraits are most flattering when shot from slightly above. If you’re getting pictures of the kids in the family, crouch down a bit to be more on their level. If you’re like me and are the short one in a family of giants, you’ll want a step stool to give you a little more height.
Tip 3: Capture Multiple Shots
Anybody who has ever tried to take a picture with more than two people knows how difficult it can be to get just one where everyone is looking. Add in kids, pets, and grandpa who was woken up from his nap and it’s a recipe for chaos. Take multiple shots to give yourself options. Rattles and noise makers can be beneficial not just for infants in getting everyone to look in the right direction!
Tip 4: Use the Grid
Most phones and cameras have an option to turn on a grid. This can be helpful to ensure your images are level. While tilted images might have been hip and cool 15 years ago, today it might just leave you wondering if someone spiked the eggnog. Having level images will improve your images and make them look instantly more professional.
Tip 5: Watch for Distractions
When I’m composing an image I’m always on the lookout for distractions I can easily remove. Elevate your images by picking up out of place items from the ground/floor, and make sure there’s not a lamp or tree sticking out from behind grandma’s head.
Tip 6: Hire a Professional
If your family is local or will be in town longer than just for the day, consider hiring a professional to capture some updated images. Take one thing off your plate and let someone else be behind the camera so you can relax and enjoy spending time with your favorite people. And most importantly, be able to be in the photographs instead of being the one taking them!
Try out these tips to improve your photos this holiday season and let me know which one helped you the most. I can’t wait to see all the photos of holiday memories!