How exciting was it when Amy asked if I would help write for December.  Not only is it my favorite time of the year but one of my favorite things to do and talk about, taking pictures. Yes, I am the one at all the birthday parties, holidays, and family events with the camera in my face, everyone wondering who is that crazy lady and is that thing attached to her head!  And yes I’m the one everyone comes to when they are looking for a certain picture. And yes I love it and wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world!

Christmas celebrations change as we grow older. They were so different when my children were little compared to them as adults, or when my parents and grandparents were still with us, and now a new generation is blessing our family so here we go again. I am grateful for all the photos I took throughout the years, they are some of my most cherished possessions.  Our family can look back and remember such wonderful times we had together, they can be shared and passed down for generations to come.

Here are a few Holiday photo tips I have learned over the years that make me look back and think Wow,  I’m glad I captured that.

• My favorite pictures are not posed, I like taking candid shots when everyone is being themselves, talking, relaxed and in the moment.
• Group photos should not always be serious. We take a family picture with everyone making a funny face.
• Take before, during, and after the holiday pictures. Tree decorating, ornaments, cookie making, church services, snow days, hand holding, hugs, kisses, school programs, naps, holiday jammies,  Santa’s cookies, Christmas lights, messy kitchens, reading with your children, capture the wonder in their eyes, smiles on their faces.
• Start a tradition of taking a family picture in the same spot every year. It’s fun to see everyone grow and change.

Enjoy all your Christmas moments and don’t let it pass by so quickly that we forget what it’s really all about.