Thanksgiving is upon us here in the U.S. A day that many come together with friends and family. Around the world, we are entering into times of holiday celebration, reflection, and get-togethers.

This is a great time to bring your camera to holiday functions. Shooting candid portraits helps preserve memories for all who come. Even if you do not think of yourself as a portrait photographer, you’re likely the most qualified in the room.

Here are a few tips

• Pick up a fast lens. Opening up the aperture will give you a pleasant shallow depth of field and let you shoot in lower light. A prime lens is one of the most affordable ways to shoot fast.
• Leave the flash at home. While I use my flash plenty, it’s time to blend in and not stand out.
• Bump up the ISO. Chances are you’ll be shooting in lower light… cameras have gotten much better at using higher ISOs. Take a few test shoots and be sure to zoom in 100% to check the noise. You might be able to use a higher ISO than youre used to.
• Pack light. Do you really need five lenses? I typically pack two lenses. One prime at portrait length (either 50mm or 85mm). I also pack a zoom for flexibility. Toss in an extra battery or two and a large memory card and you should be good to go. Can you bring a smaller street camera? I’m shooting with my Fuji this year.
• Give your brain a rest. Try using a mode on your camera that’s at least partially automatic. Perhaps it’s Aperture Priority to control depth of field or one of the Intelligent or Creative Automatic modes.
• Occasionally hand your camera over. While youre spending time with friends and family, don’t forget to actually get in front of a lens. You’ll want some memories preserved too.

Do you have any other practical tips for shooting holiday candids?