A holiday party is more than a chance to unwind — it’s a celebration of your team’s hard work, a moment to connect, and an opportunity to tell your company’s story.

From a photographer’s perspective, great party images don’t just happen. They’re the result of thoughtful planning long before the first guest walks in.

Choose an engaging venue that offers space, lighting, and a bit of character

The venue sets the stage for the entire look of your images. Spaces with warm, even lighting and inviting décor create an atmosphere that photographs beautifully.

Natural light is wonderful for daytime gatherings, but for evening events, think about how the lighting will look on camera — harsh spotlights and overly dark corners can be tricky.

And while cozy is nice, a little breathing room helps your photographer move around and capture those candid, in-between moments without disrupting the flow.

Work photography into your timeline

When planning your schedule, think about when people will look and feel their best. If you’re planning to have a photo wall opportunity, or a space for posed group photos, those often work well before dinner, when everyone’s fresh and full of energy.

If you have speeches, awards, or a surprise moment planned, let your photographer know so they can be in the right place at the right time.

And a small but important note — avoid placing key moments directly in front of bright windows or light sources, which can put faces in shadow.

Make décor part of the story

Your decorations do more than make the room festive — they can also help reinforce your brand. A well-placed company logo near the stage, a photo booth with a custom backdrop, or even consistent color choices can make your event feel more cohesive in the final gallery.

Set expectations for guests

Giving attendees a heads-up that a professional photographer will be there makes a difference. People tend to dress a little sharper, step into photos more willingly, and put their phones down during big moments when they know they’re being captured.

In the rare case that a guest doesn’t want to be photographed, have small, brightly-colored stickers at the check-in table, which they can put on their name tags. Seeing this bright color will tell a photographer not to photograph the person.

Trust the process

Once the event begins, relax and enjoy it. A good photographer will know when to blend into the background for authentic candids and when to step in for more structured shots. They’ll adapt to changing lighting, anticipate key moments, and make sure the event’s energy is reflected in every image.

Think ahead about photo use

Before the party even happens, consider how you’ll use the images afterward — whether it’s in internal newsletters, on your website, across social media, or in recruitment materials. This helps your photographer know what kinds of shots will be most valuable to you.

Your holiday party is a celebration, but it’s also a rare opportunity to capture your company’s culture in a way that feels authentic and memorable. A little planning with photography in mind will ensure your event is not just well-documented, but beautifully told through images.

Are you ready to finalize your holiday party photography? Reach out to me today!

How to plan your holiday party, from a photographer’s perspective