The holiday season is filled with joy, magic, and precious moments with your kiddos-perfect opportunities to capture memories that you’ll treasure forever. But photographing kids during Christmas can also be a challenge with all the excitement, sugar-fueled energy, and fleeting moments. Whether you’re using a DSLR, mirrorless, or smartphone, these tips will help you take stunning, authentic photos of your kids this Christmas. Enjoy samples of my own kiddos from past years!

1. Focus on the Moments, Not Just the Poses

Christmas is about magic and connection, so don’t stress about getting your kids to pose perfectly. Instead, focus on capturing candid moments that show their personality and the wonder of the season.

Ideas for Candid Moments:

Their reaction to the Christmas tree

Sibling laughter during gift unwrapping

Quiet moments, like reading a favorite holiday book or snuggling in pajamas

Drinking hot chocolate

Let your kids be themselves, and the result will be genuine, heartfelt photos.

2. Use Natural Light Whenever Possible

The warm glow of the Christmas lights can create beautiful photos, but they work best when paired with natural light. Open curtains or position your kids near a window during the day to make the most of the soft, flattering light.

Pro Tip:

If you’re photographing in the evening, turn off harsh overhead lights and let the glow of the Christmas lights, candles, or the fireplace set the mood. Use a higher ISO or a portrait mode setting on your camera to keep things sharp without losing ambiance.

When editing add twinkle light overlays or snow overlays in Photoshop for some extra magic.

3. Capture the Details

The little details of Christmas tell a big story. Don’t just focus on your kids-capture the elements of the holiday season that make it magical for them.

Ideas for Detail Shots:

Try holding a mug of hot chocolate with marshmallows

Gift wrapping

Close-up of ornaments

Cookies they’ve decorated (or any holiday food)

Christmas shoes

Years from now, you’ll look back at these photos and be grateful for the time you spent documenting the magic of your family’s Christmas together.

What are your favorite ways to capture holiday memories with your kids? Let us know in the comments!