Ten Tips For Capturing Holiday Moments

Top 10 Tips For The Best Holiday Candids

1. Have enough film! Make sure you load up on extra batteries and extra film when it comes to the holidays - not to mention a few rolls of extra scotch tape! Order online, or hit a big discount store like Costco, to make sure you have enough.

2. Keep a back up camera. There’s nothing worse than the perfect shot — and a broken camera. Even if it’s one of those drug store or supermarket disposable cameras, keep it nearby or in your purse.

3. Coverage! Cover as many opportunities for shots as possible. Better to have too many than not enough.

4. Avoid trying to group everyone together. Shoot as it happens. Pretend you’re a news photographer chronicalling an important event.

5. Don’t worry about subjects looking picture perfect. Focus on capturing an emotion instead of a fashion or a group.

6. Don’t forget the rituals. Capture tree trimming, cookie making, gift opening, the first hello when grandma and grandpa see you all at the door, etc.

7. Think outside the box. Don’t just shoot the usual photos — shoot different photos this year. Even if it seems weird, shoot things you’ve never shot before.

8. People don’t have to be in the shot. A picture of all the snowy boots lined up outside the house on Christmas Eve, or a photo of the trash cans overflowing with ripped off wrapping paper the morning gifts are open, both make memorable shots.

9. Strangers. Shoot the paperboy, the bus driver, the garbage truck driver — you never know where you’ll find a memory you’ll be glad you had. Of course, always ask permission of strangers before shooting their picture.

10. Share! Share your photos with your family and friends.