Christmas card photo ideas with a red truck

A vintage red truck is one of the easiest ways to make a Christmas card photo look like a Christmas card. Here are the setups that work best, with examples from real sessions with Red Truck LA, a 1972 Ford F-100 for hire in Los Angeles.

1. The whole family in the bed

Lay blankets and pillows in the bed and sit everyone in it, with small trees or a wreath at the edges. It fits big families and keeps little ones contained.

2. Kids on the tailgate

Drop the tailgate, lay a blanket over it, and let kids lie on their stomachs with their chins in their hands. It is the shot parents frame.

3. The couple and the dog

A tree standing in the bed, a couple at the tailgate, the dog in someone's arms. Simple, warm and very Christmas card.

4. Through the cab window

Everyone leaning out of the driver's window, the red door filling the frame. It works as a close crop when the card has room for only one photo.

5. The props do the talking

Big JOY letters, a Santa mailbox, a wreath on the grille or string lights at dusk. Pick one hero prop rather than all of them, so the family stays the subject. The truck comes without decorations, so bring your own.

Getting the shot right

• Shoot in open shade or late light so the red paint stays rich instead of washing out.
• Leave space at the top or side of the frame for the card's greeting.
• Match outfits to the truck: cream, green, plaid and denim sit well against red.