This post has been sponsored by COVERGIRL. The opinions expressed in this post are my own.

It’s the middle of December.

And you really, really meant to get a photo of your family taken before now.

But now, now my friend, you are stuck. Between the fifteen different activities on the calendar from now until the end of the year, you have TONIGHT to get a picture taken (in your holiday best), so the cards can be done and mailed in time.

It feels a little bit like a reality-based game show, right?

Contestants. You have 30 minutes to get your family in presentable clothing with hair slightly combed. Your hair and makeup must be done. Find a suitable backdrop. Get camera ready, positioned and photo taken. GO.

Well, lucky for you, I’ve been a contestant on this game show. Shoot, every year I’m back on this game show. I know what it takes to create a last-minute Christmas Card Photo and I’ll share my secrets.

Guide to Last Minute Christmas Card Photo

1. Decide “who” is getting their photo taken.

As a general rule, I say everyone in the family. I know this seems counter-intuitive, but it creates less drama. When it is a kids-only photo, the constant “Smile bigger/smaller/more/less” and “Look like you enjoy it.” can make the wheels fall off the wagon quickly. Plus, you are less likely to take 30 different shots, because well, you are part of the lineup.

2. Decide “where” the photo is going to be taken.

I know, the Christmas tree in the house as the background would be LOVELY. The problem … it is inside. And inside lighting is a poor replacement for the sun. Trust me, take the photo outside. Great outdoor backdrops include a grouping of pine trees, brick or stone walls, wooden fence, entry ways with bright doors and more.

3. Get the camera and frame ready before everyone shows up.

Take a couple of test shots and get everything framed up before your family arrives. And don’t forget to go tighter on your family’s faces. No one cares what shoes you wore … they want to see your face.

4. Go neutral (but not white).

For the love, don’t try to create a stylized picture. People realize you took this at home. Allow everyone to wear something in their closet. Chose colors like grey, blue, cream, khaki, black or brown. Stay away from white, because it can upset the color balance and make your family look “sickly”. Add pops of color with accessories.

5. Make sure you look great.

Since I’m the one sending the cards, I want to look good. (If the rest of the family is worried about what picture I choose, they can send the cards.) Kids can get away with looking a little goofy or mischievous … when the parents look this way, people start to wonder. Take the time to get your makeup camera worthy. (I thought this makeup tutorial called “Facing The Christmas Card” did a great job. The COVERGIRL + Olay Simply Ageless 3-in-1 Liquid Foundation really does an amazing job for coverage.)

6. Spend only 15 minutes or less taking photos.

This means at most six of seven shots. Shot one can be used to make adjustments on framing and focus. Shots two through five are your best bets and then let everyone get silly with shots six and seven. You might be surprised that those silly shots are the one’s you like best.

Remember, if you wait till the last minute, it only takes a minute. Happy Holidays!

For more information about COVERGIRL (and all of their amazing products – seriously, when did they get all of these amazing products), check them out here.

Disclosure: I’m THRILLED to be partnering with COVERGIRL in a sponsored capacity on this post. With that being said, the written remarks and opinions, along with my bad smokey eye experience are entirely my own. Want more information – check out my full disclosure statement.

This post has been sponsored by COVERGIRL. The opinions expressed in this post are my own.