Have you sent out your family Christmas cards yet? My family never did photo Christmas cards, but I always remember receiving them in the mail and comparing how a family had grown or change since last year! Many of us take the availability of a camera for granted– digital cameras are fairly inexpensive and we even have cameras on our phones now! But many families–maybe even some families in your own church– have never had a family portrait taken together. Can you imagine that?
If you’re looking for a way to provide something different and unique to the families in your ministry this Christmas season, think about setting up a family portrait station during a holiday gathering or potluck. If there is a talented photographer in your church, ask him or her if he or she would be willing to donate time and talent to helping you pull off something really special. Maybe you just have hobbyists or even high school or college students who have an interest in photography. Something like this is a great way to engage church members who have skills that are often overlooked in ministry. If you don’t have anyone with a “good” camera, (DSLR) someone with a point and shoot will be just as handy! This doesn’t have to be a fancy event.
Rally a few volunteers who would be willing to help with your photo station. You’ll need a photographer and a few folks to help pose and tell people to smile! You may choose to use a simple black or white backdrop to make the photo timeless, or set up your station in front of the church Christmas tree. The possibilities are endless!
When the event is over, have the photos printed somewhere and distribute.
We held a similar event at my church in Murray, KY, and the response was overwhelming! It’s so much fun to see families smile together– especially those who are having their picture taken together for the very first time! If you’re interested in organizing something like this for your church and would like to chat more about planning, send me an email at katie.decillo@lifeway.com!
