Happy New Year Photo Ideas

I don’t know about you, but I could not be more excited for a NEW and FRESH start this upcoming year! I am all about taking the time to reset and reflect each new year and determine my successes, areas of improvement and goals for the next year. In the spirit of the new year and new beginnings, I’ve put together this guide on easy Happy New Year photo ideas you can take to get in the festive spirit and amp up your Instagram game into the new year, cheers!

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Pro tip: When taking Happy New Year photos, take candid photos having fun and celebrating instead of smiling at the camera! These are more genuine and show a true sense of you! Also, don’t forget that props are ALWAYS your friend.

THE CHAMPAGNE TOAST

Nothing says New Year’s to me like a glass of bubbly! Champagne is my fav and I will take any excuse to grab a glass and toast. Make your photo extra festive with a cute New Year’s outfit, some confetti or balloons. I love a good sitting pose, but this can be done standing as well!

THE BALLOON DROP

Ok ok, I did not actually have a balloon drop at my apartment, BUT I certainly made it look like I did! Balloons make for an awesome NYE backdrop to put you in the festive mood. I prefer clear or metallic balloons for a chic upgrade, plus they allow the light to shine through. I mixed up helium balloons for the backdrop and air-filled balloons for the “balloon drop” on the ground. You can shoot with them during the day time or at night, just add some strings of fairy lights for some extra brightness and sparkle!

SHINE LIKE A STAR

One of my favorite photos to date! This photo idea is SUPER easy and probably all over your Pinterest inspiration board. How did I recreate it? Use your floor or a table cloth for an easier pick-up. Lay the table cloth flat on the ground, add some confetti, star cut outs and anything else that sparkles! Once your masterpiece is complete, lay down in the middle of it and have someone stand on top of you to take your photo or use your tripod above you!

CONFETTI QUEEN

This Happy New Year photo idea is super easy with a big impact! All you need is some confetti and a fast shutter speed on your iPhone or camera. If you want to try a fun backdrop, grab a colorful tablecloth or posters and add some gold stars!

SPARKLE & SHINE

I adore fireworks displays, but the only real firework that I’m getting my hands on is a sparkler (lol)! I love using sparklers as a prop to add a much needed dose of glitz & glimmer to festive photos! Add a cute fringe backdrop from a party store or amazon, throw some confetti, light up your sparkler, have some fun & you’ve got the PERFECT sparkler shot!

I hope you have fun recreating these Happy New Year photo ideas and celebrating new beginnings!