Photography Tips for Christmas Day

Christmas Day is one of the most popular times during the year to take photographs. Often, though, we are rushed. When we are rushed two things happen - we don't enjoy the photography process and the photographs aren't the desired quality. Here are some tips on how to be prepared so you don't have to rush and how you can take better quality photographs on Christmas Day.

• Get Ready. Make sure you have everything on hand for your photographic needs. Consider the equipment you own and what you want to have on hand - camera, lenses, flash, tripod, batteries, flashcard, etc. If you are traveling and limited on what equipment to bring, consider where the photographs will be taken and what equipment is most important for your situation. Before Christmas Day make sure your batteries are charged (including a back-up battery) and that you have enough memory or film for the day. At the location for your Christmas Day events find a place to store your equipment so it will be easy to access them when they are needed.

• Make a List. The photographic opportunities for Christmas Day are numerous. Consider photographing Christmas Day standards such as the food, unwrapped gifts, traditions, the mess afterwards, etc. Also consider photographing the objects that make this holiday so appealing including Christmas lights, the Christmas tree, ornaments, wrapping paper and bows, table decorations, Nativity scene, wreath, etc. Make a list of all your photographic possibilities and refer to your list throughout the day.

• Lighting. At the location of your Christmas Day shooting, determine your lighting needs before any of the activities take place. By planning ahead, you will avoid the rush to be ready later. Consider your existing light and flash needs, and adjust your white balance setting if you have that capability. For the best photographs, avoid using a flash. To do that, you may need to use a higher ISO rating. If you must use a flash, use an external flash if possible. To effectively use a flash always keep the camera within 10 feet of your subject. Alternatively, use existing light. Light coming from a window can often cast nice lighting on your subject.

• Get Close. To capture the excitement of Christmas get close to your subject. Use a telephoto lens or physically move in close to capture your subject's facial expression. Try various angles. It is often a good idea to get down on the subject's level, placing yourself at or slightly below his or her eye level.

• Go Wide. Alternatively, get a wide view of the Christmas Day happenings by stepping back or using a wide-angle lens. With a broader view, the atmosphere and details of what is happening can be captured. This photograph of my daughter shows not only her excitement about her present but also the array of presents already surrounding her.

• Orientation. Take advantage of both orientations of your camera. Remember to turn your camera sideways and go vertical. By taking this vertical photograph of my daughter, I was able to capture more of her body.

• Framing. To get a good photograph, remember to place the subject off center. Move the camera a little to the side so your subject is placed off center. Follow the Rule of Thirds.
  
  
• Portraits and Groups Shots. For portraits and groups shots, pick a location. Feel free to set up a location for your group shots. Props such as a tree or packages will enhance the Christmas theme. Pick a location with an uncluttered background. Take your time arranging your subjects and try to keep to as few rows as possible. To get yourself in the photograph, use a self-timer.

With a little preparation and thought you'll be ready for some great photographs this Christmas.