How to photograph Christmas celebrations?

Christmas celebrations are approaching with their share of illuminations and sparkling decorations. The perfect opportunity to take beautiful Christmas photos.

To succeed, be sure to follow these tips.

Photographing Christmas lights

Here are some simple rules for photographing the lights that decorate streets, squares, houses, or store windows.

First, turn off the flash on your camera. Indeed, the flash will prevent you from capturing the light halos created by the illuminations.

To avoid any unpleasant surprises, put your camera in manual mode and make a few adjustments. First, increase your lens aperture and decrease the shutter speed. Also, choose a high ISO. Finally, select the tungsten white balance to avoid the horrible orange effect.

And of course, don't hesitate to use a tripod to get perfectly sharp photos.

Take portraits of your loved ones

Christmas celebrations are often an opportunity for family reunions or gatherings with friends. Take advantage of it to take portraits of those dear to you.

Especially since the Christmas lights will allow you to deviate from classic portraits. Indeed, you can use the Christmas lights to create beautiful artistic blurs in the background of your subject. You will then need to prefer a sufficiently wide framing to include a bit of decor in your portrait. Also, don't forget to compose your photo well. Apply the golden rule of thirds to give an interesting dynamic to your shot. Do not place your subject in the center of the photo!

Alternate between individual (tighter) and group portraits (necessarily wider). For slightly humorous photos, offer a few accessories: Santa hat and beard, reindeer antlers...

A Christmas story in photos

Of course, during Christmas celebrations, you won't limit yourself to portraits. Also, think about photographing the small details of this holiday.

Aside from the Christmas tree and its decorations, Christmas offers you many opportunities for beautiful photos. Floral decorations arranged on the table prepared for the guests; beautifully wrapped presents under the tree, superbly presented dishes for the occasion, a warm fireplace. Capture the details of your evening so that your photos faithfully reflect its spirit. Because Christmas is also a particular ambiance.