This is the first Christmas photo for the twins. Which photo do you prefer? Also, I'm interested in how to improve the composition and lighting. The space is kinda tight, so I couldn't find a spot where the door frame doesn't show up. Any suggestions on how to get rid of that.
This picture has a classic group shot problem: inconsistent facial expressions. I'd try to get better heads from other images and move them here to get (if possible) more consistent happiness.
As you have this image composed the real image is roughly a square. I'd crop accordingly, or reset this to be a horizontal. The back row could wrap around the grandparents a bit in a semi circle if space permits.
Why not take this elsewhere where the character of the house shows a bit? This image looks like the front hall. IMHO it needs to be happier, joyful.......
I agree with the other two comments and would add a third (and a fourth):
3. The clothing is almost somber and doesn't convey a Christmas spirit.
4. More of the tree or other decorations would add zest/joy to the "Christmas Family Photo."
Critiques notwithstanding, what a lovely family you have!
Yikes. A great looking family, not so great christmas portrait. It's underexposed. Try lightening with curves and increasing saturation in photoshop and that will make it a little more cheery. And please remove that white card on the Christmas tree. And as suggested above a square crop will help. I wish I saw more of the tree to give it a festive look. I might have come up higher with the camera angle. There are ways to get rid of the door frame, but it doesn't bother me.
Thanks for all the feedback. No, I have not decided on a photo yet. Maybe for New Years, we'll get the family together and try it again. At least the tree will still be around.
There's a few suggestions to show more of the tree. Should I just move the family over to the left in from of the door and not cover up the tree? Or is it better to take the shot a bit lower and angle the camera up to get a bit more of the tree? For the grandparents, should I include the feet or continue to cutoff around the knees?
