Every year you say you’re going to book a Christmas photoshoot with a Tampa photographer. But then it’s November, and somehow you forgot to book it— again.

We get it! It’s hard to believe it’s that time of year when you need to scratch holiday cards and gifts off your list. You have too many things to do and so little time to get them done.

But in case you’re eager to finally get those photos taken (and maybe send out cards on time this year!), we’ve come up with a handy guide for your Christmas photo session to make sure it all goes smoothly!

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LIGHT UP Your Christmas Photoshoot in Tampa with these 7 Tips

Christmas is the perfect time to gather with family and create unforgettable memories. And what better way to cherish these moments than by capturing them in photos?

If you’re planning a Christmas photoshoot in Tampa, then you’ll want to make sure you have everything you need to create beautiful, festive images. For example, one way to ensure your photos turn out amazing is by using lighting to your advantage— we’re kind of pros at this! 😉

Here are the 7 tips we give all of our clients that’ll help you LIGHT UP your Christmas photos and capture the magic of the holiday season.

Tip #1: Find a Tampa Family Portrait Photographer

We start booking our holiday photo shoots around August. So booking sooner rather than later ensures we’ll have a date/time/location that works best for you.

Also, book a time of day that works best for the little ones in the session. 

Tip #2: Plan Ahead

Your photo session consultation is a great opportunity to get your questions answered and get assistance in planning. Some of our clients love to use holiday props, and coordinated outfits, and others don’t. Either way is fine.

Just keep in mind it’s best to have your outfits planned in advance. If kiddos are involved, make sure they are comfortable in the outfits you’ve chosen. 

GREAT TIP: Feel free to put one of dad’s old t-shirts on them for the ride over to prevent any stains. 

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Tip #3: Keep Calm and Carry On

Being prepared is the first step towards being calm for your session. If mom and dad are calm, it’s far more likely the kids will be as well.

There’s nothing like a bit of unspoken tension to rile up the little ones, so keep breathing, let go of perfection and enjoy your session.

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Tip #4: Bring PROPS!

Less is more when it comes to props. We always welcome our clients’ ideas because your photos shou;ld truly represent your family.

However, we’ll also let you know (based on our experience) when something may not work. And because we want to focus on you and your family, cluttering the frame with too many props can be distracting.

If you have any questions along these lines, we’re always here to help.

Tip #5: Dress for Comfort

Dads and kids aren’t always super excited about photo shoots, but it’s even worse if they’re in stiff, uncomfortable, ill-fitting, or scratchy clothing.

Comfort is key. 

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Tip #6: Bring More Than 1 Outfit

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A post shared by Angela Clifton Photo | Tampa Portrait Photographer (@angelacliftonphoto)

We often recommend dressing in layers and/or bringing an additional outfit. This can be helpful on warmer days in case anyone sweats through their shirt, but it’s also nice to have an option.

Sometimes you don’t know how a look is going to photograph until you see the photos. Give yourself an option.

We don’t recommend outfit changes for sessions shorter than 1hr, and if you’re wanting to do 2 or more outfit changes, we’ll probably need 1.5hr or more.

Tip #7: Reward Good Behavior

For those with little ones, you might to provide them with a little incentive.

A promised trip to the ice cream shop or the playground can work wonders as a treat for good behavior.

It may help us get over those inevitable challenging moments. Yes, meltdowns do happen. But sometimes they result in some really adorable photos (see above)!

Brent and I are very patient, so no worries at all! We’ll give the little ones some time to calm down. It might be helpful to bring along a trusted friend who can help get the kids’ attention. We encourage them to stand behind the photographer so everyone is looking in the right direction.

If you don’t have someone bring to your family’s Christmas photoshoot in Tampa, don’t worry. We have plenty of tricks up our sleeves.

It’s never too early to book a family Christmas photoshoot. If you’re in Tampa, book your FREE consultation!