As Christmas looms large on the horizon, it’s crunch-time for anyone who hasn’t yet gotten their Christmas cards out, which also means there’s little time left for anyone who hasn’t taken their Christmas pictures yet, either. The only problem is that both the Post Office and photographers are pretty booked up at this time.

Instead, why not make things easier for yourself and just use your own point and shoot camera to take it? Here are a few tips to help!

Get Something to Stabilize the Camera.

First things first, you’re going to want something that will stabilize your point and shoot digital camera. Online digital camera stores sell tripods and other accessories that are literally designed for this purpose, but if you don’t feel like spending too much money, you can always use a table or the mantle.

Set the Timer.

Most modern point and shoot digital cameras have automatic timers on them that you can set. If you, the photographer, want to be included in the shot, then you’re going to have to set it. You should also check your point and shoot digital camera’s manual to see if it also has a burst mode setting you can also use. With this feature on, your point and shoot digital camera will take multiple pictures with just one click. That way, you won’t have to walk to the camera and regroup after every picture.

Do Something Unique.

Last but far from least, do something unique with your Christmas photos. Do something that’s going to make your friends and family laugh or smile. Do something that will set your photos apart, and make them truly memorable. After all, everyone gets tons of Christmas photos every year that show happy faces strained in smiles and seemingly nonchalant poses that are making their elbows stiff. Wear silly get-ups; put the dog in a costume; strike a funny pose. Just do something different. Though this might not have anything to do with using a point and shoot digital camera to take a great Christmas photo, it’s one of the most important things you can do before mailing your cards out.

If you want to take your Christmas photo with your point and shoot digital camera, be sure to get something to stabilize the shot, set the timer, and do something unique. If you have any other tips to help, feel free to share in the comments.