Christmas Photo Shoot Checklist: Get It Right in 20 Minutes

Skip the overwhelm. Prep once, shoot fast, and keep a backup plan ready if the room or weather fights you.

24 hours before

• Pick 2–3 outfit colors; one pattern max; no logos/neon.
• Clean one 6x8 ft area near a window; remove cords/clutter.
• Charge phone/camera; clear storage.
• Print/remember 3 prompts.
• If using props: mugs (warm, not hot), one ornament, blanket.

Day-of setup (10 minutes)

• Turn off overheads; face toward window/bright sky. Add one lamp opposite the window if needed.
• Pull subject 2–3 ft from wall for depth.
• Tape cords; keep kids/pets away from anything hot.
• Set burst mode; focus on nearest eye.

Prompts that work

• “Tell them your favorite memory of this year.”
• “Point to your favorite ornament.”
• “Clink mugs and look at each other.”
• Kids: “Whisper your favorite cookie flavor.”

Shot list (10–12 minutes)

1. Seated triangle (faces toward light)
2. Whisper + reaction
3. Hands/ornament close-up
4. Walk-and-talk or lean-in
5. Pet/kid cameo (seated)
6. Backup portrait for AI fix

Quick settings and tweaks

• Raise exposure slightly; add a touch of warmth.
• Keep ISO reasonable (move closer to window instead of cranking ISO).
• Shoot 12–20 frames total; pick one.

Safety/list hygiene

• No standing on chairs/unstable props; sit or kneel.
• Pets: no chocolate/strings; treats above lens.
• Cold outdoors? 10 minutes max; warm up between takes.

If the scene still isn’t right

• Crop tight on faces/hands.
• Or upload your best-expression shot and generate 18 festive backgrounds in 60 seconds—export 5x7, print on matte 130–150 lb.

Print-ready checklist

• Export sRGB, 300 DPI at 5x7 (or needed size).
• Keep faces/text 0.25" from edges; add bleed if printer requires.
• Order by Nov 20 (calm) or Dec 7 with rush; mail domestic by Dec 10.

Final note

One honest smile + clean light beats a long, stressful shoot. Use the prompts, keep it safe, and let AI save the background if you need it.