With the holidays just around the corner, what better time to start gathering loved ones together for a family photo! Whether for a holiday card, personalized gift, or simply capturing a moment in time, Shutterfly knows the value of the photo – and the moments spent together creating them.  

To help kick off the season, Shutterfly recently hosted Family Photo Day events for employees and their families at locations across the country, giving team members an opportunity to step in front of the camera and capture precious family memories.  

Then came the real work- our team members rolled up their sleeves to help create even better experiences for our customers. Through our annual companywide Test Fest, employees explored and tested our updated site , helping identify ways to make shopping, creating, and sharing memories even easier for the millions of customers who will shop with us this holiday season. Now it’s your turn to start creating. Whether you’re snapping a family photo for the first time in years or carrying on a favorite holiday tradition, a little planning can help turn everyday moments into memories you’ll treasure for a lifetime. 

Read on for our favorite holiday photo tips and inspiration, then explore our newest holiday card collection to find a design that fits your family’s style. Your next favorite holiday memory starts here.

Tips for Taking Great Holiday Photos 

You don’t need a professional studio to capture photos you’ll treasure for years to come. A few simple techniques can make a big difference. 

Let the Moment Be Real: Some of the most treasured photos happen between poses. A shared laugh, a spontaneous hug, or a playful interaction tells a  meaningful story .

Chase the Light: Natural light creates warmth and softness that helps photos feel timeless. Early morning and late afternoon are especially beautiful times to capture family portraits.

Wear What Feels Like You: Coordinated colors can create a cohesive look, but authenticity matters most. Choose outfits that help everyone feel comfortable and confident.

Celebrate Every Season of Life: Whether you’re documenting a growing family, a new home, a beloved pet, or simply another year together, every chapter deserves to be remembered. And don’t overlook a selfie, sometimes they capture the most authentic moments of joy!

Don’t Wait for “Perfect”: Don’t Wait for “Perfect”. Life is happening now. The best time to capture today’s memories is today.