10 Family Holiday Photo Ideas to Capture Special Moments
I love family holiday photos because, for me, they’re more than just pictures—they’re pieces of memory I get to relive again and again.
Looking back at snapshots from past holidays brings a wave of nostalgia, especially the ones where everyone’s in the same frame, laughing, posing, or just soaking up the moment.
The holiday season has this magical way of bringing people together, and photos become these tiny reminders of time spent with loved ones.
After years of both taking and being in countless holiday photos, I’ve learned how certain settings and ideas can turn an average shot into one that truly captures the essence of the holiday season.
That’s why I put together this article—to give you ideas that make every family member look their best, capture genuine moments, and turn them into memories you’ll treasure forever.
Inside, I’ll share not only some classic ideas for those perfect family photos but also a few personal takes on how to make them unique to your family.
From cozy indoor settings to snowy outdoor scenes, you’ll find all you need to create beautiful, memorable photos that truly capture the spirit of the season.
Let’s dive into these family holiday photo ideas and start making memories!
1. Cozy Pajama Morning

Start your family holiday photos with a cozy, relaxed feel by capturing everyone in their pajamas.
Holiday mornings are perfect for these kinds of photos, especially if you’re gathered around the tree or sitting by a warm fireplace.
These photos always have a candid, natural vibe since everyone’s comfortable and relaxed.
To add a bit more charm, try matching pajamas for the entire family. If matching isn’t your style, go for a color scheme or a theme that feels festive but also true to your family’s personality.
I remember one Christmas morning where everyone wore different shades of red, and it made the photos look coordinated without feeling overly planned.
The key here is to capture the ease of a holiday morning, with kids playing or loved ones snuggled up with coffee or hot cocoa.
These moments have such a heartwarming feel when you look back on them.
2. Baking Together in the Kitchen

The kitchen tends to be a popular spot during the holidays, especially with all the holiday treats being made.
Capturing your family baking together makes for some sweet, candid shots—and it’s so much fun.
Whether it’s decorating cookies, mixing batter, or simply making a mess with flour, these moments bring out everyone’s playful side.
I’ve found that these photos often become some of the favorites because they’re less about posing and more about capturing real joy and laughter.
Be sure to get some close-ups of hands working on cookies or faces dusted with flour.
These little details make the memories feel even more authentic.
3. Classic Fireplace Setting

Nothing says holiday warmth quite like a family gathered around a fireplace.
This setting is classic and almost always produces beautiful results, especially when everyone’s huddled up, laughing, or sharing stories.
Try dimming the main lights and letting the glow of the fireplace light the room, giving the photo a warm, cozy feel.
To make it even more special, add holiday props like blankets, stockings, or a few presents around.
One year, we hung stockings with everyone’s initials, and it added a personal touch that made the pictures even more special.
This setup is all about capturing that holiday closeness and warmth.
4. Outdoor Snow Day Fun

If you’re lucky enough to have snow during the holidays, outdoor snow photos are a must.
Not only do they bring out the seasonal vibe, but they’re also fun, which makes for genuine smiles and laughter in the shots.
Get everyone bundled up in hats, scarves, and gloves, and head outside for snowball fights, building snowmen, or making snow angels.
I remember a holiday where we took turns pulling each other on a sled; the laughter and candid smiles captured in those photos are priceless.
Outdoor snow photos are perfect for capturing a winter wonderland vibe that feels both festive and playful.
5. Candid Decorating Moments

Decorating the tree is one of the most beloved holiday traditions, and it’s also a fantastic photo opportunity.
Capture everyone hanging ornaments, untangling lights, or placing the star on top of the tree.
These decorating moments bring out that feeling of togetherness and excitement.
One of my favorite photos is of my family crowded around the tree, each person focused on adding their special ornament.
For an even more candid feel, snap a few photos while everyone’s working without posing, capturing those natural expressions of concentration, joy, and laughter.
6. Festive Outdoors in Holiday Sweaters

Holiday sweaters, whether they’re “ugly” or adorable, are a fantastic photo theme.
Head outdoors with everyone dressed in their festive sweaters for a series of relaxed family shots.
Find a natural backdrop like a snowy field, a cozy park bench, or even the front porch decorated with a few holiday touches.
One holiday, we all wore sweaters with different holiday characters on them, and the photos turned out incredibly fun and full of personality.
It’s a simple setup, but one that lets everyone’s unique style shine.
7. Formal Family Portrait by the Christmas Tree

A classic holiday portrait by the Christmas tree is always a winner, especially if you’re looking for something a bit more formal.
Have everyone dress up in their holiday best and pose in front of the tree for a timeless family photo.
For added depth, use the tree lights as a soft background glow, or even add a few wrapped presents for a fuller scene.
One year, I took a family portrait where everyone was in holiday attire, and it’s one of those photos that felt like it belonged on a Christmas card.
It’s a beautiful way to capture the festive spirit in a classic, elegant style.
8. Nighttime Lights Walk

Holiday lights have a way of adding magic to any photo, especially if you capture them at night.
Bundle up the family and take a walk to admire holiday lights—whether they’re around your neighborhood or at a local display.
Try taking some photos with the lights glowing in the background, creating a dreamy, festive atmosphere.
I remember walking through a light display with my family, and the photos turned out beautifully with everyone illuminated against the sparkling lights.
Nighttime light photos feel a bit more magical and are perfect for capturing the enchantment of the season.
9. Reading Together by Candlelight

For a cozy and intimate vibe, gather everyone around for a storytime by candlelight.
Whether it’s reading a holiday story or just flipping through a favorite picture book, these moments make for beautiful, calm photos.
Dim the lights, light a few candles, and maybe even throw in a soft blanket.
One holiday, we read holiday stories to the kids by the glow of candlelight, and the photos have such a peaceful, warm feeling.
Reading together captures that serene holiday moment where everything slows down.
10. Family Game Night

Nothing brings out laughter and energy quite like a family game night, which makes it perfect for holiday photos.
Capture everyone’s competitive spirit as they play board games, cards, or even a lively game of charades.
These photos are great because they’re full of action, joy, and a bit of friendly rivalry.
One game night, we set up a camera to capture everyone’s reactions during an intense round of Uno, and the pictures were hilarious!
Game night photos give you a slice of the fun and excitement that the holidays bring.