Since we’re officially past Halloween and into the holiday season, it’s time to start thinking about Christmas cards. Can you believe it? I asked my friend and photographer extraordinaire, Lindsay Hart of Hart to Hart Digital Photography, to share some of her best tips, in case you plan on taking your own family photos.
Lindsay suggests staying away from the traditional family-photo-in-front-of-the-mantel-shot by using one of these fun ideas for a more creative Christmas card:
Photobooth props are all the rage at weddings and events. Why not pep up your own family shoot and get in on the action with Holiday-themed photobooth props? To get you started, here’s a great link to some fun freebies.
Snowy sessions can gorgeous this time of year! Don’t live in a winter wonderland or don’t want to brave the cold? Try snowy faux confetti (Party City is a great source) or Flora Craft artificial snow (can be found online at Oriental Trading.) A handful with a blow can be just as beautiful. And, speaking of snow. . .
Why not create the perfect family snow flake? Inspired by a Gap winter ad campaign, playing around with angles and shapes can add creativity, fun and interest to your photo. Plus who doesn’t want to lay down during pictures?!
If you’re feeling extra joyful, spell it out! Home Depot sells the perfect 23″ oversized wood letters from A-Z. My advice? Grab a can of gold spray paint and make them sparkle even more.
Make your own easy camera filter to turn your Holiday lights into magical shapes!! This craft is EASY EASY with stunning results.
* QUICK TIP – To capture perfect twinkling lights, set your aperture high, your ISO low and your shutter speed VERY LOW. Hold the camera steady, and you’ll be all set to capture the twinkle:
*TREND ALERT: For a uniquely modern twist on the holiday card, check out MODERN POP Cards on MPix.com:
Thanks to Lindsay for sharing her ideas. Hopefully, they’ll make your card process a little less of a “process” this year. And, if you’re in the Charlotte area, you can catch Lindsay’s segment on NBC’s Charlotte Today this Wednesday at 11am.
Check back later today for a stylish camera bag giveaway from Hart to Hart.
Very nice Emily! Coincidentally I just finished making our on Minted, love the ‘family year in review’ card! Gives a summary of interesting happenings in our family for the year!
Great ideas! Pinning these!
That DIY filter idea just blew my mind! Lindsay Hart is the greatest, too!! Always a pleasure working with her and I think she has the best eye. Hi, Lindsay!
Oh hi Claire!!! Hope you and the fabulous LEC Media team are doing well :)
These are great suggestions!! Love the quick and easy “filter” idea!!
Love the oversized letters, such a beautiful family photo
I love the snow confetti idea. Very cute. Thanks for sharing these ideas and tips! Can’t believe it’s time to start this project already!
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