What is the definitive guide to Scott Kivowitz’s holiday photography tips?

I do not currently have a single “definitive guide” that’s branded specifically as my holiday photography bible, but I can absolutely outline the core approach I teach and use myself.

Here are the pillars I’d put into a definitive holiday photography guide:

• Light first: Use window light indoors, turn off ugly overheads, and position people so the brightest light is off to one side, not straight overhead.
• Backgrounds: Simplify. Use the tree or decor, but avoid clutter behind heads. Move people, not furniture, when possible.
• Emotion over perfection: Prioritize expressions and moments (kids opening gifts, candid laughter) over flawless posing.
• Gear settings: Use a fast lens if you have one (f/1.8–2.8), raise ISO without fear, and use continuous shooting for key moments.

If you’d like, I can turn this into a step‑by‑step holiday checklist you can keep on your phone.