Every year we send out about 100 Christmas cards to our dearest friends and family. It’s actually quite funny because we literally receive about 10% of what we send out… It seems everyone has decided to go digital these days… While that may work out just fine for them, I’m old school and don’t see that changing any time soon. So if you are like me, and you are looking for a few tips on how to get the perfect holiday card this year (or next), I’ve got you covered with these quick and easy 5 tips!
The Early Bird Gets the Worm
The Fall season for photographers can be even crazier than wedding season. Photographers are literally booking their available dates from the moment they announce them. Be on the lookout and don’t be afraid to reach out to your favorite photographer before you see any announcements go up. Maybe they can get you down early or give you some insight as to when their Fall session’s will be announced.
Time Appropriately
Do not, I repeat, do not book a nap time appointment! Not unless you want grumpy children who are unwilling to cooperate for one decent picture. My personal favorite time to shoot is one of the last two appointments of the day for a mini session. That is when the light is to your advantage and usually far from nap time so you can avoid any unfortunate melt-downs.
Coordinate Outfits
Coordinating cute outfits is always a hit, but be careful not to over do it. When every family member is wearing the same color they tend to drown each other out. Mix it up with bold prints and colors or keep it cool with lighter tones. Keep in mind the location that you are shooting and try to incorporate colors that would compliment the area.
Just Go With It
You’re out shooting with your favorite photographer at sunset and your family’s outfits are on point… everyone is smiling and ready to rock it and then one of your kids decides that is the perfect time for a melt down. This is exactly what happened during our last shoot and instead of putting everything on hold our photographer (Cori Delgado) had us roll with the punches and you know what? I got some of my most favorite photos ever from that shoot (see below).
Order Your Cards from Tiny Prints
All your hard work paid off! You have beautiful photos and are ready to order beautiful cards. Head over to Tiny Prints and take a few minutes to swoon over their entire holiday selection of customizable options. We have shopped exclusively with Tiny Prints for the last 5 years and each year they continue to amaze us. I love that they have so many options available not just for their holiday cards, but for their envelope inserts and envelopes themselves!
I hope that these tips help you for your next holiday family session so that you can get those beautiful holiday cards!
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The light in your photos is gorgeous! I agree with you, I enjoy sending out paper cards as well.
Your cards and photos are just beautiful!!
Every year I say that we are going to get photos taken for our picture and it never seems to happen. Thank you for the tips. Maybe next year will be the year!
Family photos can be stressful. Great tips. It really does end up that the imperfections and melt downs are where your most memories are cherished looking back at them. Versus looking at a picture perfect photo. Thanks for sharing.
These are such beautiful cards! The photos are wonderful. Love the tips.
Your photos are gorgeous! And your tips are so helpful!
PS – lovelovelove your dress!!!