What to do so your holiday card never sees the inside of a trash bin

WITH KIDS

Photo credit: Tiffany Hagler-Geard/SheKnows

• Keep them well rested and sugar free
• Bring backup: Have a comb and extra shirt handy in case of disaster.

Photo credit: Tiffany Hagler-Geard/SheKnows

• Eliminate distractions: Don’t bring extra family members or pets if you don’t want them included.
• Turn on the TV: If you are shooting inside, have the TV right behind the camera and turn on their favorite show or movie. This way the child can watch TV and it will look like they are looking at the camera.

Photo credit: Tiffany Hagler-Geard/SheKnows

• Play along: As a photographer, using small children, I sometimes tell the kids, “OK, now look deep into my lens. Nemo the fish is inside looking out, hoping he can get a big smile and wave from you! He’s keeping an eye on you! Do you see him?” This captivates the child with smiles and with direct contact at the camera. (I encourage parents to play along with me.)

WITH PETS

Photo credit: Tiffany Hagler-Geard/SheKnows

• Plan to shoot outdoors: Outside in a park is ideal, unless you have a cat… then it’s inside.
• Bring toys: The best photos happen when your pet is happy. Make it fun by bringing toys and playing or making him/her do tricks throughout the shoot.

Photo credit: Tiffany Hagler-Geard/SheKnows

• Give the photographer treats: Ask your photographer to hold treats up in front of the camera to encourage your pet to look up during the shoot.
• Wash your pet before the shoot: And run a comb through its coat to bring out the extra shine.

Photo credit: Tiffany Hagler-Geard/SheKnows

• Act natural: Shoot the animal and person doing something normal or cute, emulating everyday life and love.

Photo credit: Tiffany Hagler-Geard/SheKnows

• Make your pet the star: There’s a reason pet GIFs are so popular. Cute animals never disappoint, so let your pet shine.

Up next: For the single lady or gent, with your besties & picking the final shot