Family Photos:
Photo Trick: Make it Black and White
It doesn’t take much effort to turn your favorite photo into a classy holiday card.
Photo Trick: Draw Finger Faces
If you can’t find a photo you like, it’s not too late – here’s one easy way to send out a special Holiday card.
10 Tips: Holiday Card Photo Dos and Don’ts
We have you covered. Follow thes 10 tips listed below and any photo will look professional!
Holiday Events
Your source for everything that’s happening locally this Holiday Season!
Making Winter Wonderland Work
DO pose for a winter photo scene if your family enjoys the season’s activities, your love of “snowy” fun will genuinely show.
DON’T do a winter pose just to have a seasonal theme. If your family doesn’t usually enjoy cold weather activities you could end up with a photo where everyone looks miserable!
Let the Kids Personalities’ Shine Through
DON’T select a “posed” studio shot to use for your cards. These portraits are wonderful family keepsakes for you but they aren’t as interesting to your card recipients.
DO use a photo of your kids being who they are “everyday,” which is when the real smiles occur instead of the forced formal ones.
Pick a Natural Pose
DON’T use the awkward family “pile on” pose unless you are trying to make sure your card’s photo ends up on an “awkward family photo” website.
DO show your togetherness as a family with a natural, comfortable pose instead of piling on top of each other like football players going after a fumble.
Show Off Your Family First
DON’T pick a photo where the scenery steals the show from the card’s true stars, your family. This photo shows a beautiful scene but it is more about the pumpkins than people.
DO consider using photos with beautiful and interesting natural backgrounds that create interest without taking the focus off of your family.
Forget About Forcing the Holiday Theme
DON’T feel like you have to dress up like Santa or stand by a Christmas tree
DO use a simple photo that puts the focus on your family, the photo card background you pick will allow you to use holiday colors and themes on your card.
Choose Vacation Photos Carefully
DON’T forget to think about what you are wearing in any family vacation photos you are considering using. A swimsuit photo at the beach might make Aunt Edna uncomfortable.
DO select a photo that tells the story of where your vacation was and shows what a great time you all had instead of what a great tan you all got.
Color Matching is Distracting
DON’T dress everybody up in outfits that are color coordinating, it drives all of the attention to your clothes instead of to your family. The same rule applies to patterns that conflict.
DO select a picture with clothing that is simple and neutral with complimentary colors. What you wear shouldn’t pull the viewer’s attention away from everyone’s face.
Showcase a Favorite Activity
DON’T get so caught up in showing the world an action photo featuring an activity you all love that the action becomes the main focus.
DO select a photo that highlights everyone’s love of an activity but still lets friends and family really see you (instead of wondering who is behind all of those ski masks).
Making a Monochromatic Masterpiece
DON’T mix colored clothing near faces when trying to create a monochromatic white portrait. It has the same effect as color matching outfits — distracting.
DO create a monochromatic white family portrait at least once in your life (where all members white/ivory shirts). All white or all black clothing are the only “matching” outfit photos that truly emphasize the people in the portrait.
If you always wear a Santa hat in your photo — go for it! The most important thing to remember for a great holiday card is to pick an image that shows who you really are. Be Authentic.
Above All Else: Keep It Real
Crafty Tips:
Holiday Recipes
Plan your celebration meals from start to finish with ideas for appetizers, main and side dishes and desserts. For gift giving and snacking recipes check out the treats section.
