Lifestyle Session NWA || Gibbs

Needing some Christmas card ideas but don’t want to get out in the cold? Try an in-home session or “lifestyle session”! Right now you may not want to have a photographer come into your home due to coronavirus. GOOD NEWS! You can set up your own fancy little phone camera or regular camera on a timer and get some great shots at home!

How’s that? First, set your scene. Do you have your tree up already? Do you like to bake cookies? Have a cozy fireplace that you can sit in front of? (You can find so much inspiration on Pinterest and Instagram!) Lay out some pillows or blankets, turn the lights on on the tree, and pick out your outfits.

Next up, grab some props! This totally depends on your vibe. Wear some Santa hats. Make some hot cocoa to sip. Light some candle or hold candy canes. Find the fluffiest blanket you have and pick out some wintery books to read on-camera. The sky’s the limit here!

Whether you have a tripod or prop your camera up on some books and candles, now you find the right framing for your photo! Make sure it isn’t too dark too. Natural lighting from windows is always helpful. Set your timer for 10 seconds and get everyone in position. (Important: plan where you are going to go and what you are going to do before you click the button!)

Click the photo button and cozy up! You can smile and look at the camera, tickle each other and giggle, have your noses buried in books, cuddled up and drinking tea. Try a few shots and change positions. Give yourself way too much to work with!

Once your shoot is done, you can edit the photos you choose. Most phones have built-in editing software, but I like to use lightroom mobile (which is free!) It takes a little getting used to, but you can fix the white balance, make it brighter, and tweak to your heart’s content. BAM! You have a Christmas Card photo!

Need a little inspiration? Here’s an in-home session I shot a year ago of one of my favorite sweet lil families. They kept it simple and stylish, focusing more on their growing love of their precious newborn!