Christmas has a habit of flying past. One minute you’re putting the tree up, the next you’re wondering where the time’s gone.
Most of us will take plenty of photos over the festive period, usually on our phones, but the ones that really matter aren’t about perfection. They’re about noticing moments, slowing down a little, and telling the story of the day.
As someone who photographs people for a living, I spend a lot of time noticing what gives a photograph its sense of story and connection. With that in mind, here are a few simple ideas to help you capture more meaningful Christmas photos this year.
1. Get involved at the children’s level
Some of the best Christmas photos happen when you stop looking down and start seeing the world from a child’s point of view.
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Get down to their level – sit, kneel or even lie on the floor.
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Photograph what they’re focused on, not just their faces.
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Let them play, explore and get absorbed in what they’re doing.
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Don’t ask them to smile – just let the moment happen.
When you’re involved in their world rather than observing from above, the photos naturally feel more relaxed and connected.
2. Look out for great light
You don’t need to create light – just notice it.
- Window light is your best friend indoors. Stand with your back to the window and photograph the person or scene in front of you. Aim for soft, indirect light rather than strong sunshine – if the light feels gentle to your eye, it will look good in the photo too.
- Move away from harsh overhead lights if you can. Downward-facing LED lights often create heavy shadows under the eyes, so stepping slightly to one side or closer to a window can make a big difference.
- Overcast days create soft light which is perfect for flattering portraits.
- Winter walks can be photographic gold – low sun, long shadows and beautiful contrast.
- Scarves, coats and hats naturally add texture and a real sense of the season.
Top tip: if it feels cosy or wintry to you, it will probably photograph well too.
3. Photograph the in-between moments
The strongest photos rarely happen when everyone’s “ready”.
Look out for:
- Laughter mid-conversation
- Animated faces during games
- People chatting rather than stopping to pose
Games and walks are especially good for this. People are relaxed, engaged and far less aware of the camera – which is often when the most genuine moments happen.
4. Capture the generations together
Christmas is one of the times of the year when generations come together – and those interactions are pure gold.
Look out for:
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Grandparents walking hand-in-hand with grandchildren
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Shared jokes, stories or quiet moments
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Simple connections that happen naturally, without anyone thinking about the camera
Photos that show people interacting with each other often feel far more meaningful than everyone looking straight at the lens.
5. Slow down before you tap the shutter
A quick pause can make a huge difference.
Before you take the photo:
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Take a quick look at the background – can you move slightly to simplify it?
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Take a step closer.
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Move yourself rather than asking people to move.
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Wait for one clear moment instead of taking lots of similar shots.
You don’t need hundreds of photos – just a handful that really feel like your Christmas.
A final thought
Take a few photos, then put the phone down and enjoy the moment. The memories you don’t photograph matter just as much – and the ones you do capture will mean more because you were actually there.
Wishing you a wonderful Christmas and a peaceful end to the year.
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