Creative Christmas Portrait Ideas

Tis the season to be jolly, so why let something as joyful and intimate as a Christmas portrait ruin all the fun? Everyone wants the perfect Christmas photograph to accompany cards or holiday newsletters, but as time goes by, coming up with innovative ideas can become a real challenge. If you're at a loss for this year's perfect family holiday portrait, take a look at some ideas other people have perfected for Christmas photos.

Family Photos

Gather the family and get ready to capture the abundance of holiday cheer. From tried and true traditional shots to complete nonconformity, the following ideas will get everyone in the holiday spirit and bring happiness to friends and family that live far away:

• A Wreath of Smiles: Combine a little bit of tradition with a whole lot of fun. Position the family behind a large holiday wreath and shoot several images of everyone looking through its center. Mix it up with goofy faces or sweet smiles.
• Bucking Tradition: Bring a touch of warmth to the holidays by choosing a beach scene for your Christmas portraits. Build a "snowman" out of sand, wear swimsuits and Santa hats or write "Merry Christmas" near the surf while everyone gathers around. If you don't live near a beach, plan a summer trip and use the idea for next year.
• Evergreen Moments: Share the magic of a Christmas tree by making it the centerpiece of your holiday portraits. Outdoors, capture dad and the kids hauling the tree through a snowy field, or photograph the family's tree-trimming festivities indoors.

Babies and Children

Some of the most adorable Christmas portrait ideas center on the youngest members of the family. Who can resist the smiling face of beautiful baby or a group of children? For holiday images that appeal to the masses, consider portraits of infants and children that make your little ones the stars of the show.

• All Aglow: Light up the excitement on your children's faces with a few well-placed candles or other diffused light sources. In a dark room or outdoors after sunset, have the kids gather around a lone Christmas candle that casts a soft glow on their faces. If you prefer a little more magic, place a soft, diffused light in the bottom of a large, colorfully-wrapped gift box and photograph the children looking inside. Santa hats are optional.
• True Gifts: Break out the gift boxes, ribbons, paper and bows. If you have a baby or toddlers, place them in beautifully wrapped Christmas boxes surrounded by soft wrapping tissue. Photographed under the tree, these images send a clear message about the true spirit of the holidays. The sheer cuteness of the concept is an extra bonus.
• Words and Letters: Dress the kids up in their finest Christmas outfits and photograph them holding letters or words that spell out holiday cheer. For a large brood, consider the traditional "Merry Christmas" while a simple "joy" or "Noel" works well with smaller groups.