Finally had a bit of time this past weekend to take the annual Christmas photo. Unlike other years, we had time working against us as the late afternoon light was quickly fading.

Luck was on my side though as a sliver of sun poked through the low hanging clouds. I had set up my flash, put the family beside a big, moss covered cedar tree (or was it a Douglas Fir?) looked over my shoulder and saw a shaft of light hitting another tree. I must have had a look of panic as my husband understood to grab the kids and shuffle them over – which is easier said than done as our youngest decided he wanted to run…away. While David was busy wrangling in the kids and tying the dog back up I changed my camera settings to allow as much ambient as possible.

I really like this photo of us as it completely represents us. Luc had me in a choke hold and was yanking backwards almost choking me, while David my husband was trying to hold him from doing so. Sebastien in his typical self was being a ham. By the time the timer counted down we were all laughing and ‘click’. Perfect shot with amazing side lighting. I had one flash on camera used as a fill in.

After the shoot, we walked around a bit. The sun had gone back behind the low lying clouds and darkness was quick to come. On our way back to the car I came across an incredibly textured wall and just told the kids to go stand there. I didn’t think there were just going to stand there and pause which is fine by me because these are the best photos IMO.

Merry Christmas everybody and safe stay during the holiday season!!!