How to Capture the Perfect Christmas Family Portrait with Your iPhone

Although this isn’t my family, it’s an example of a great group photo; it’s shaded and joyful, and that’s precisely how a group should appear.

Christmas day is magical—the air is filled with excitement, the kids are bubbling with energy, and everyone is freshly dressed for the day ahead. It's the perfect time to capture those special family memories. I fondly remember wearing new outfits for Christmas and feeling so good about myself! As a photographer and a mum, I know how chaotic the day can become, so here's a guide to help you create the perfect Christmas family photo using nothing more than your iPhone.

Find your light in the shade or close to a window.

1. Do It First Thing (or before presents)

Make your family photo a priority by capturing it as soon as possible. On Christmas Day, kids get tired, parents get distracted, and outfits lose sparkle. Take the photo when everyone is fresh, happy, and ready to go.

2. Find Perfect Lighting

Look for soft, shaded natural light. This could be near a window indoors or under the shade of a tree if you're outside. Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause unflattering shadows and squinty eyes. Morning light is often soft and forgiving, which makes it perfect for your photos. Use a Bluetooth remote so you can be in the picture!

3. Position Everyone Close

The secret to a cozy family portrait? Proximity. Have the kids cuddle into the parents and create connections with your posing. Encourage everyone to get close—hugs, cheek-to-cheek smiles, or playful moments make for heartwarming shots.

4. Use Portrait Mode

Your iPhone's portrait mode can mimic the look of a professional camera by softening the background and focusing on your loved ones. To get the best results, activate it and position your phone at eye level.

5. Take Lots of Photos

Don't be afraid to overshoot! Take as many pictures as possible because there will always be one shot where everyone looks their best. Engage with your family to capture more natural smiles, and delete the ones you don't like.

6. Create Fun Moments

Document the joy. Tickle the kids, crack a few silly jokes, and let everyone feel relaxed. The candid la’ candid laughter and genuine smiles are often the most precious.

7. Keep It Simple

Focus on the emotions, not perfection. A little Christmas chaos—a child holding their favourite toy or grandparents laughing—makes the image uniquely yours.

8. Edit Thoughtfully

Once you've chosen your favourite photo, use the editing tools in your iPhone to adjust brightness, contrast, or colour temperature. Add a soft filter if it enhances the image, but keep it natural.

Make It a Tradition

Taking a Christmas morning family photo doesn't just create a beautiful picture—it makes a lovely moment. Let it be a tradition that captures the magic of being together, year after year.

Because at the end of the day, Christmas is all about—celebrating love, family, and togetherness. And that's something worth capturing.

Happy photographing and Happy Holidays! Love Katie x