8 Tips for Taking Your Family Holiday Card Photo

Coordinated doesn’t have to mean matching. Choose a simple color palette — think warm neutrals, jewel tones, or classic reds and greens — and mix patterns sparingly. Avoid logos or busy prints that distract from your faces. Layers like scarves or cardigans can add depth and comfort.

Pro tip: Lay out everyone’s outfit together beforehand to make sure the colors flow naturally.

The location sets the tone for your card. Whether you’re taking photos in front of a twinkling tree, a snowy park, or your cozy living room, think about lighting first.

• Avoid harsh midday sunlight that casts unflattering shadows.

• Aim for golden hour—the soft light just after sunrise or before sunset.

• Indoors? Try positioning near a window for natural light and turn off overhead bulbs that can create color casts.

Posing can feel awkward, especially with little ones or pets in the mix. Keep things relaxed!

• Couples: Stand close, hands on arms or around the waist — the goal is natural connection.

• Families with kids: Sit or kneel to their level and encourage tickles or laughter to bring out real smiles.

• With pets: Have a favorite toy or treat nearby to grab their attention (and patience).

Try a mix of standing, sitting, and candid shots — variety makes it easier to find the perfect image later.

Before the photo shoot, take a peek at your chosen greeting card design. If your Holiday card includes gold script, soft tones, or lots of text, keep your background simple and your outfits neutral. This ensures your photo and design complement each other instead of competing. Check out Zazzle or Walgreens for unique holiday greeting cards you can customize with your own photos. 

Some of the best family photos happen between poses — the giggles, the eye rolls, the tiny hugs. Ask your photographer (or your designated phone holder) to keep snapping during the transitions. These genuine moments often end up being everyone’s favorite.

If you’re hiring a professional, look for someone experienced with families — especially if young kids or pets are involved. Review their portfolio for lighting styles and posing ideas you love. Remember, when you are choosing a photographer you are choosing their editing style. If you’re taking the photo yourself, invest in a tripod or phone stand, and use the timer or remote shutter for hands-free shots.

Before wrapping up your shoot, double-check: are everyone’s faces visible? Hair in place? No odd shadows? Did anyone forget to remove their watch or hair tie from their wrist? Take a few extra photos to make sure you have options. Small details can make a big difference when printing your holiday cards.

After all the effort to capture your family’s holiday spirit, make sure those photos stay safe! Back them up immediately to a secure location — like ThePhotoStick® Omni. It makes it easy to store your holiday moments and ensure they are never lost to a tech mishap.

Don't just save the best ones, make sure to keep a few with the goofy smile or when the dog jumped on Grandma's lap. These little moments often end up being the ones we want to remember most. 

It just needs to feel real. Whether you’re wrangling toddlers or getting your dog to look at the camera, remember that these are the memories that make each season special. With a little planning and the right tools, you can create a photo that brings joy to everyone who opens your card.