This year I want to enjoy my family more and stress less. And since, Christmas is a wonderful time to capture candid, sincere expressions from our children, I decided to take more photographs of my own kids! This list is full of must-take family Christmas photos that occur every December, but I forget to document this special family traditions. I’m planning to create a photo book from these family portraits to remember this Christmas in the coming years. I encourage you to do the same! I'd love to see what photos you take of your family!

31 Must-Take Family Christmas Photos

1. Choosing our Christmas tree or setting it up

2. Decorating our Christmas tree

3. Hanging our newest ornaments (usually from our vacations)

4. Setting up Elf on the shelf scenarios

5. Decorating a gingerbread house

6. Bundling up in scarves and mittens

7. Enjoying hot cocoa with marshmallows together

8. Playing in the snow

9. Presents under the tree

10. Reading a christmas book

11. Catching snowflakes

12. Making Christmas presents

13. Writing letters to Santa Claus

14. Talking to Santa Claus

15. Making (& eating) Christmas cookies

16. Cutting paper snowflakes

17. Kissing under the mistletoe

18. Playing or singing Christmas carols

19. Cuddling in a cozy blanket while watching a Christmas movie

20. Wrapping presents

21. Eating candy canes

22. Opening our Advent chocolates

23. Lighting our Advent candles

24. Wearing Christmas pajamas

25. Hanging Christmas stockings

26. Setting out milk and cookies for Santa (and carrots for Rudolph)

27. Posing for a family "selfie" in front of our Christmas tree

28. Playing with our dog in the snow

29. Enjoying new Christmas decorations

30. Building a snowman

31. Enjoying a great meal out together as a family

Laura Mares is an experienced photographer specializing in capturing timeless family keepsakes. Laura works on location and in her fully equipped home studio, located in Mt. Lebanon, eight miles south of Pittsburgh, PA. Laura’s style is creative, natural, and timeless. Would you like beautiful portraits of your newborn baby, to update your child and family portraits or to document a milestone in your life such as a wedding, graduation, birthday or reunion? If you are interested in high quality, timeless photographs, book your session today, call (412) 654-3367 or email [email protected]. To view a wide range of gorgeous portraits and to get great tips, advice and beautiful inspiration follow us on Instagram and Facebook.