Family, Friends & The Holidays

Whether you’re celebrating Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanza or even just New Year’s Eve, the festive vibes are in the air the whole month. While traditions have continued to evolve over time, most holidays include some form of gift-giving. Even though it’s nice to receive gifts, it’s not always fun to shop for others. Whether it’s your hard-to-shop-for significant other or your mom who hates clutter, finding the perfect present for everyone may feel like winning the lottery – close to impossible. Let us help you navigate gift-giving this year:

  Giddy for Gifts                                                                                                                                                                                

  • Create a budget and stick to it.

Set your price and check it twice. There is no need to go into crippling debt until your tax returns come back. Figure out what you can spend and don’t go over it. Even if it means giving a portion of the gift in the form of a gift card. If your sister has been dying for a new pair of boots, but they’re out of your price range, give her a gift card. Every little bit helps!

  • Avoid price matching.

There is no reason to feel guilty if you cannot match the amount of money someone spends on you. There are no rules in gift-giving. But you should do what’s best for you and your budget.

  • Don’t get caught empty-handed!

Be prepared for the unexpected guest or gift. Keep several small wrapped gifts in the house and invite unexpected guests to select their preferred gift from the basket.

Give the Gift of Photos!

PhotoSquares are the perfect gift for those who are hard to shop for or who seem to have everything. Use these tips to capture vibrant shots in December.

  • A New Perspective

When taking a photo of children, crouch down to their eye level. This will reveal the details in their expressions and capture their vantage point.

  • Indoor Lighting Challenges 

Take advantage of natural lighting from a window if you can. For photos in dim light such as candles, Christmas trees or faces, try this trick: use another person’s phone or tablet by opening a blank webpage or white screen, increase the brightness and you’ve got a mini softbox that will give off great close up or additional illumination. Using the flash on most phones washes out the subject.

  • Don’t Strike a Pose                                               

 Shots in front of the Christmas tree are common this time of year. But why not capture more authentic moments? Have your camera or phone by you all the time to be able to capture authentic moments like two people laughing with one another or your niece listening intently to Grandpa.

No matter how you take your photos this holiday season, remember to capture the joy and magic in the winter air! From our family to yours… we wish you a safe and happy holiday season. Happy Photosquare-ing!