How to Look Great in Holiday Photos (Without Trying So Hard)
- Laura Doman
- 23 hours ago
- 3 min read
Actor-approved tips to look present, confident, and genuinely you - on camera and off
It’s that time of year:
Holiday parties. Family gatherings. Festive chaos.
And - whether you like it or not - photos.
Lots of them.
Somewhere between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, you will end up in at least one picture that lives on social media forever. Or at least long enough for someone to tag you before you’ve had coffee.
Before you tense up, suck in, or mentally rehearse your “good smile,” take a cue from little kids.
(And no, I’m not talking about the ones caught mid–nose-pick or tongue-out rebellion.)
I’m talking about how kids are fully present. You can see what they’re thinking. You feel their personality.
There’s no self-conscious posing—just pure, unfiltered being.
That’s why they’re so fun to look at.
And here’s the good news: you don’t need to be a kid - or a model - to photograph well. You just need a little presence, some intention, and a few actor-approved tricks.
“People don’t want perfection. They want you.”
Instead of Worrying About How You Look… Do This
1. Think a Happy Thought (Yes, Really)
If a camera suddenly appears while you’re mid-conversation or reaching for another cookie, don’t panic.
Think about:
A joke you just laughed at
A moment you enjoyed at the party
A favorite bite, song, or conversation
That memory shows up instantly—in your face, your eyes, your energy.
Give the photographer what they want and they’ll move on faster. Win-win.
2. Look at the Camera Like a Human, Not a Deer
You don’t need to stare it down. Just know that someone - later - will be looking at that photo.
Let it feel like a brief moment of connection:
"Oh, hi. Nice to see you.”
That’s it.
3. Smile Like You Mean It (Not Like You’re Auditioning)
Most people just want to see happiness.
And a public service announcement: Attempts to look “sexy” in holiday photos often age… poorly.
Duck face?
No. Please. Never. Ugh.
If you don’t love a big toothy grin, that’s fine. A relaxed, closed-mouth smile with warmth behind it works beautifully. Let it reach your eyes.
4. Smile With Your Eyes
An empty grin paired with bored or disconnected eyes reads as fake every time.
Real photos come from real engagement.
Even a subtle shift - softening your eyes, lifting your cheeks - makes a massive difference.
5. Let Your Body Language Do the Heavy Lifting
You may not get your “best side” in a group shot. That’s okay.
Borrow a few tricks from actors and lifestyle models:
Posture & Body Lines
Stand tall: Straight spine, shoulders relaxed, chest open
Create angles: Shift weight, pop one knee, turn slightly ¾ to camera
Elongate: Think ballet or yoga - long lines, not stiffness
Avoid freezing: Don’t lock up. Find gentle movement and flow
Hands & Face
Relax your hands: Soft fingers - no fists
Use angles: Turn your head slightly; don’t lock it straight-on
Subtle expressions: Small shifts read powerfully on camera
Add Realism
Staged candids: Hold a glass, lean against something, pretend to walk
Movement helps: Music loosens everything
Find a base: One flattering stance, then play with hands and upper body
The Mindset That Makes Everything Work When You Want to Look Great in Holiday Photos
Who doesn't want to look great in holiday photos? Especially years from now when you and your kids (or grandkids) are looking back on family memories?
Just keep these three things top of mind:
Confidence: Comfort shows up visually
Presence: Be where you are
Storytelling: Even a single photo tells a story - choose a good one
Final Thought
The best holiday photos aren’t about perfect angles or flawless smiles.
They’re about looking like someone people want to be around.
So relax. Enjoy yourself. Be present.
And let the camera catch that version of you.
Want to add talking on camera so it looks - and sounds - effortless? Engaging? Memorable?
I can help you with that, too, 'natch.
You know the drill.
Just reach out and we'll make the camera your playground.
Upcoming Events
Hanukkah
starts evening of December 14
Christmas
December 25
Kwanzaa
starts December 26
New Year's Eve & Day
December 31 - January 1
Enjoy!!
Want to learn more? Let's talk!
I'm Laura Doman, a voice & TV/film actor and video communications coach. As an actor, I create memorable characters that tell my client's stories well, from the friendly CEO to your sassy best gal pal dispensing real-world advice. As a coach, I help you become more comfortable and charismatic on camera in videos, presentations, and online appearances.
