Countdown to Christmas---photo checklist

Wow, where does the time go... less than a week until Christmas! Be sure to stop by the blog this week as you take a break from your Christmas preparations. We've got some "last minute" ideas for you... so let's get started!

As we all know, Christmas is a perfect time to take lots of photos that can be used in our scrapbooks all year long. Here are a few ideas of the shots you may want to include in your "must haves" this year:

• Group photo in front of Christmas tree--you might be amazed at how much styles, family members and even the tree change over time. At the time this photo was taken, it was "just another Christmas tree photo" but now it is a cherished memory.


• Photo of someone opening the "perfect gift" to document the reaction

• Christmas tree ornaments with special meaning--you can later use the photos to create a layout so future generations who receive them will know their story


• We spend so much time preparing special dinners and desserts...be sure to photograph them. I love a photo of my Great Grandmother's Christmas dinner table. I couldn't believe how much food she had prepared! You could later create a special Christmas recipe mini book to share your favorite holiday recipes with others. Or maybe create a book to house recipes you've gathered from family and friends during the holiday pitch-in dinners.


• Traditions--whatever they may be, take pictures of them! Traditions may change over time and you'll cherish photos of them later.


• Photos of lights--turn off your camera flash and take photos of your lighted tree or your outside light displays at night. You may need to set your camera on a flat surface or tripod to avoid blurred or shaky photos, but the results will be amazing.


• Special gifts from children or grandchildren--you'll want to remember the special gift wrapping skills of children as they plan special Christmas surprises for you. Don't forget to take photos of these treasures before you open them...like this example of a gift wrapped in cardstock and ribbon found in "mommy's" scrapbook stash! (This photo also shows the look that can be achieved when turning off your camera's flash.)

Do you have other ideas to share? If so, please post a comment and share your Christmas photo tips with us!