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Writer's pictureJovianna Palacio

5 Simple Tips to Capture Perfect Holiday Family Photos

Written by Alexa Gailloux


The holiday season is a special time of year filled with family, laughter, and countless memories worth capturing. Whether you're gathering around the Christmas tree, baking cookies with the kids, or enjoying festive moments outdoors, the perfect family photo helps preserve those cherished memories for years to come. As a professional family and lifestyle photographer in South West Florida, I’ve seen how a few thoughtful tips can make all the difference in creating photos that capture the magic of the holidays. Alexa Gailloux Photography specializes in helping families create beautiful images that reflect their unique personalities and style. In this article, I’ll share my top tips to help capture those perfect holiday moments, whether you’re snapping photos yourself or preparing for a professional shoot.


Plan Your Outfits for Holiday Cheer:

Coordinating family outfits is one of the easiest ways to bring a polished, festive look to your holiday photos. The key is to choose colors that complement each other without being too matchy-matchy. Think cozy, seasonal colors like deep reds, forest greens, and warm golds, paired with neutral tones like cream or soft gray. Layers also add dimension and texture to photos, so consider scarves, jackets, or cardigans. Avoid overly bold patterns, as they can distract from the main focus—your family. Coordinating your family’s attire will not only bring your holiday photo to life but also reflect your unique style. Need inspiration? Here are some great holiday outfit ideas.


Timing is Everything for Beautiful Photos:

When it comes to capturing the perfect holiday photo — or any photo for that matter — lighting plays a huge role in setting the mood. If you’re planning an outdoor photoshoot, aim for the "golden hour"—the hour after sunrise or just before sunset. The soft, natural light during this time creates a warm, magical glow that enhances every photo. For indoor photos, try to use natural light as much as possible by positioning your family near windows. Avoid harsh overhead lights that can create unflattering shadows. In sunny South West Florida, where I often work with families, early morning or late afternoon is ideal for getting that beautiful, soft lighting.




Add a Festive Touch with Props:

Incorporating festive props can elevate your holiday photos and add a cheerful touch without overwhelming the scene. Simple items like ornaments, cozy blankets, or even a small Christmas tree can create a warm, inviting atmosphere. When choosing props, think about how they reflect your family's personality and the spirit of the season. Avoid clutter—less is often more! For example, a few carefully placed ornaments can enhance the festive vibe while keeping the focus on your family. If you’re looking for some fun holiday props, check out these options on my Pinterest. By adding thoughtful touches, you’ll create a magical scene that makes your holiday photos even more special.


Keep the Kids Happy and Engaged:

One of the biggest challenges in family photography is getting the kids to cooperate and smile naturally. The key is to keep the atmosphere light and fun! Encourage playful interactions between siblings or let them show off their holiday excitement. Incorporating activities—like tossing snowballs (or beach balls in Florida), decorating cookies, or even just playing with festive props—can lead to genuine laughter and smiles. Bringing along a few snacks or small toys can also help keep their energy up and spirits high. One of my favorite things to bring along to a photoshoot is a small speaker so I can play festive music while we take your pictures. It really helps to keep the mood light! Remember, some of the best photos come from spontaneous moments, so let the kids be themselves!


Don’t Be Afraid to Get Candid:

While posed photos can look beautiful, and I absolutely include them in every session, some of the most cherished holiday memories come from candid moments. Encourage your family to interact naturally—capture the laughter, the hugs, and the joy of being together. Let go of the need for every shot to be perfectly staged; instead, focus on the genuine emotions that unfold. Whether it’s a child’s delighted reaction to opening a gift or a shared laugh during a silly moment, these candid shots often tell the real story of your holiday celebrations. So embrace the spontaneity! For more inspiration on capturing those authentic moments, be sure to visit my portfolio at Alexa Gailloux Photography. Candid is absolutely my specialty!




Capturing the perfect holiday family photo doesn’t have to be stressful. By planning outfits, timing your shots for the best lighting, incorporating fun props, keeping kids engaged, and embracing candid moments, you can create beautiful memories that reflect the spirit of the season. Whether you’re taking photos yourself or working with a professional, these tips will help you achieve stunning results. If you’re looking for personalized guidance and a fun experience capturing your family's holiday moments, I invite you to get in touch so we can plan your perfect holiday photos. Mention this article to receive 10% off your holiday photoshoot, and let’s create memories that will last a lifetime!

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