Capturing memories with children at Christmas
Capturing memories with children at Christmas is a wonderful way to celebrate the season and create lasting gifts for loved ones. As a photographer based in Portsmouth, I can share some tips to help you make the most out of your holiday photo sessions with kids. Here are 6 top tips for photographing children at Christmas that will ensure you capture their joy and the magic of the season:
1. Plan Around Their Energy Levels
Timing is Everything: Children have different energy levels at various times of the day, so plan your photoshoot when they are at their best. For most kids, this is typically after they've had a good breakfast or nap. Avoid planning sessions right before their usual naptime or mealtime.
Keep Sessions Short: Kids tend to lose focus after about 20-30 minutes, so keep the photoshoot short and sweet to prevent frustration.
2. Create a Fun, Festive Atmosphere
Decorate the Scene: Set the stage with Christmas decorations such as twinkling lights, a Christmas tree, stockings, or even a cozy fireplace. Festive props like Santa hats, reindeer antlers, and presents can help bring the holiday spirit into the photos.
Involve the Children: Let the kids help decorate the tree or unwrap gifts. This not only makes the moment feel more natural but also gives them something to focus on, making the photos more relaxed and candid.
3. Capture Genuine Emotions
Avoid Posing Too Much: Candid shots often turn out to be the most beautiful and authentic. Let the kids play, laugh, or interact with family members. Capture their genuine reactions rather than forcing them into posed situations.
Focus on Details: Sometimes, the small moments can tell the most beautiful stories. A close-up of a child’s hands holding a present, their wide-eyed expression as they look at the Christmas lights, or the warmth of a cuddle with a loved one all make for wonderful, meaningful photos.
4. Use Natural Light Whenever Possible
Maximize Natural Light: The soft glow of natural light, especially from windows, creates a warm, festive atmosphere. Avoid harsh, direct light or overly bright artificial lights, as they can create unflattering shadows.
Golden Hour Magic: If you’re able to shoot outdoors, aim for the golden hour (the hour just after sunrise or just before sunset) for the best soft, flattering light.
5. Incorporate Christmas Traditions
Family Activities: Document special traditions like choosing your favourite Christmas Tree baking cookies, reading Christmas stories, or singing carols. These moments are unique to your family and will make your holiday photos feel extra special.
Action Shots: Don’t be afraid to get in the action! Take photos of your child jumping on the bed in excitement, running around in the snow (if you’re lucky enough for a white Christmas), or enjoying Christmas dinner with family.
6. Personalize Your Gifts
Turn Photos into Gifts: Once you’ve captured the perfect shot, consider turning your photos into personalized gifts. Custom calendars, framed prints, or even photo books make heartfelt presents for family and friends.
Gift the Experience: A photoshoot itself can be a wonderful gift. Consider gifting a voucher for a Christmas family session, creating memories that your loved ones can cherish forever.
Bonus Tip: Dress Comfortably and Festively
While festive outfits like matching Christmas jumpers or pretty dresses are lovely, it’s important that children feel comfortable in what they’re wearing. Opt for clothes that allow them to move freely and feel at ease, so their personality shines through in the photos.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure that your Christmas photos with children are full of joy, warmth, and authentic memories. Not only will they make wonderful mementos for your family, but they also make fantastic gifts for friends and relatives. Happy holidays, and happy shooting!
If you are still struggling to capture your children !! ( of course in the photographic way !! ) Please do not hesitate to contact me to book a photography session today or consider buying a gift voucher for a loved one this Christmas.
www.besidetheseasidephotography.co.uk
info@besidetheseasidephotography.co.uk
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With thankyou to my clients to allow me to share their images on my blog,
also to www.wyldsfarm.co.uk for their beautiful backdrop simply a stunning farm to get your natural and REAL Christmas tree every year.
““Capturing Memories that last a lifetime””
Christmas Mini Sessions 2022
Let's capture the most memorable Christmas in 2022 at Beside the Seaside's photography studio 🎅
Let's bring the magic and nostalgia by creating timeless and precious images to help remember Christmas in many years to come!!
Get cozy and comfortable in the warm and welcoming setting where the festive surroundings await you and your family this Christmas time!!
The Most Wonderful time of the year
Are you someone who counts down the days to December to then count down the days to Christmas??
Well you’re in the right place !! I have been a mother for over 25 years and Christmas time is definitely my favourite time of the year.
The season where we can wear sparkly and Christmassy outfits every day of the month !!
Why not book a session to have those festive moments captured, after all it is the ‘Most Wonderful time of The Year’
Twas The Night Before Christmas at Beside The Seaside Photography 2022
Let's capture the most memorable Christmas in 2022 at Beside the Seaside's photography studio 🎅
Let's bring the magic and nostalgia by creating timeless and precious images to help remember Christmas in many years to come!!
Get cozy and comfortable in the warm and welcoming setting where the festive surroundings await you and your family this Christmas time!!
Packages Starting at £99 with just a retainer due to confirm your slot today of £39 (Balance due one week before your session)
This session is available for a maximum of three children from the same immediate family (not to include cousins or friends)
Additional children (from the same family) may be added at a cost of £10 per extra child to be paid directly via
PayPal to info@besidetheseasidephotography.co.uk.
By clicking this link and filling in your details and choosing your preffered date and time.
Beside the Seaside Photography looks forward to seeing you this Christmas Time
Capturing Memories That Last a Lifetime’
Where it all started.....
So this is what kick started my love of photography…
Hello and a very warm welcome to my website,
My name is Sophia, A Baby & Family photographer in and around Portsmouth UK
A Mother to five gorgeous sons ( yes 5 !! ) I adore tea and cake, I’m a lover of West End musicals and dancing of all kinds, I’m also a big Madonna fan too!
My photography journey properly started in 2010 when I began to take pictures of my fourth son and decided to enter it into a Photography competition where I won it. Although I have always loved taking photographs from a teenager this really helped start my photographic journey in a more passionate way.
My children & family photography services come from the bottom of my heart, with a vision to tell your story and to help capture those beautiful moments always.
‘Capturing the nostalgia of the seaside with memories that will last a lifetime’
I capture your childrens personalities and will bring out the light in their eyes and ultimately the laughter from their hearts too.