This guide will show you how to take a Christmas photo like a pro by explaining fundamental concepts about location, lighting and shooting.

1. A good family photo location usually consists of a family room or great room where a diffused window can be used as a filling light source.
2. A large space is key. Not only will you want to position people and allow them to move comfortably in your scene, but the photographer will also need to move or reposition the camera to achieve the best angle.
3. Take special note of ambient lighting and how it affects the background. If not carefully attended to, a stray ambient light can cause hard lines or inconsistent shadows.
4. Optionally a fabric or paper background can be used.

1. 3 Lights
2. 2 Light Stands with Umbrella mounts and optionally weights
3. 1 Floor or Hat light stand

Along with a camera, tripod and ambient fill light, these components will allow you to take a well light, professional family photo.

Note: Renting this type of equipment can be an easy and cost effective way to produce professional results. Many local camera stores rent lights, strobes, stands, backgrounds and everything else that you might need at a fraction of the purchase price.

1. If you are not behind the camera, turn off autofocus. If you're using a timer or remote, allowing the camera to adjust focus on each shot may lead to a missed opportunity as the focus will be constantly evaluated.
2. If available, set your camera to take regular interval photos every 10 to 15 seconds. Remind people that this is digital photography and by setting the camera to take photos every few seconds that everyone has a predictable chance to look their best.
3. Don't forget to mix fun shots with serious shots. Contrasting between easy going, funny shots to serious, family photographs is an easy way to achieve good results.