With the current age of technology, people are starting to ditch the greeting cards with family photos and the matching sweaters. However, the trend for holiday photography is still very much alive. To match the occasion, you can start by whipping out your festive outfits and finding that snowy landscape.

Adding a Lens to Your Camera

One thing that many professional photographers agree on is that you should not rely on the camera that Instagram offers you in-app. If you have a great camera, you can use the basic app and upload it on Instagram instead. If you are targeting a wide lens or beautiful macro shots, you can invest in a detachable lens instead. The pro-quality lens kit is only sold under $100. You can even put it on your wish list this holiday season.

Upgrading Your Filters and Using an App

While Instagram will offer you with a wide selection of basic filters that will spiff up your photos in a matter of seconds, the same ready-made filters will also be available to everyone else. Using these photos can make yours seem generic. You can try using a third-party app for this. Photographers recommend using the VSCO Cam app to provide you with new filters to make your photos better.

For better results, you can skip using a filter and go straight to adjusting different photo elements instead. Before you upload it online, you can adjust the sharpness, contrast, and brightness of your photo using a third-party app. Experts recommend VSCO Cam and Snapseed for this purpose, as they give you the freedom to tinker with your photos and focus on specific spots. Some experts say that even your own device’s camera app editor might be a better tool for editing than Instagram. If you want picture-perfect portraits for a holiday, you can use an app such as Perfect 365 to remove the red-eye, bags, and dark circles under the eyes, and your wrinkles. You can even use the app to raise your cheekbones and slim your face down.

Getting the Right Look and Makeup

 Choosing the right makeup and applying it correctly contributes significantly to a good photograph. The lens and flash of a camera can give you a look different from real life, so you must adjust your beauty routine. Using makeup can help you define your features because lens and flashes can make you look washed out and diminish your features, so you might need to apply extra makeup.

You can apply full coverage makeup on your face to keep it looking smooth and shine-free. You should also avoid using SPF makeup because it makes you look whiter under the flash. You can try using a BB Cream instead, along with your usual foundation. Picking out the right product is also necessary. You do not want your foundation to look cakey, too light, or too dark for you.

When it comes to your eyes, you can make them appear more defined by using eyeliner or flattering contact lenses. And most of all, getting enough sleep to reduce the dark circles under your eyes also helps.

Finding the Right Location and Angle

When posing for a photo, you also have to consider the location of your camera, as well as the lighting. For a flat lay of your holiday feast, experts recommend shooting from above and looking down at your food. You can even use a chair for this. Many photographers also agree that photographing from an elevated angle can lead to the most flattering photos.

Choosing the Appropriate Lighting

In photography, your picture is only as good as its lighting, so it is essential to choose it carefully before snapping a photo. However, lots of lights do not necessarily mean a good picture since overcast conditions are considered to be more ideal. Too much sun can cast awkward shadows on your face. Try finding a natural light source, like a window, can help your case.

Paying Attention to the Background

While a stack of presents under the well-made Christmas tree looks great in person, your photos might show otherwise. While you are getting your camera ready, you should also arrange your shot. Another trick approved by photographers is considering the rule of thirds, where you divide your frame into three horizontal and vertical sections and place your subjects in along the intersection of those lines. You can also use this as a guide to making symmetrical shots in architectural settings. Many photographers also recommend taking chances in a horizontal position. This can help you crop easier next time.

Shooting During Magic Hours

If you think the golden hour and the blue hour are myths, think again. You should take your photos during this time because the lighting is usually less direct and softer, making them ideal in taking pictures. Golden hour is the time after sunrise or right before the sun sets while the blue house is during twilight when the sun has already disappeared but has not fully set yet.

For better landscape photos, you can also underexpose your pictures on purpose. You can do this by holding a finger on the brighter section of the frame or focusing your shot before taking a photograph. This will give you more apparent details.

During the holiday season, you are subjected to more photos as usual. In this time of catching up with your friends and family, bring out your photogenic side and try out these hacks to help you get that perfect holiday photo.