With the holidays upon us, many photographers (including myself) will want to break out all their gear. In years past I have always planned on what cameras and lens combos to bring, lights, possible modifiers, batteries, and everything in between to photograph Christmas. This year I took on a new approach. An iPhone and a cheap stand set in the corner in time-lapse mode would be the only media I walked away with this year.
We often stress ourselves out being the family photographer, documenting every minute of the holiday, which in the end sucks the time up we actually spend with our family and friends. I’m guilty of this, and at the end of the holiday am left wondering what I did all day, besides doing what I do every day, taking pictures. This year I preemptively notified the family I would not be taking images but instead enjoying the day off like everyone else. 
With presents unwrapped, food eaten, friends and family having come and gone, I’m glad I took a year off to just sit back and enjoy the festivities. While I know this is an individual choice we each have to make, and I’m sure many will comment on opposing viewpoints, but regardless make sure to enjoy the holiday season.
Happy Holidays from Fstoppers!
I did something similar this year - one or two nice photos, with minimal gear, for posterity, and then enjoyed the day. A few family members received cameras and I enjoyed helping to get them set up and watch them click away, happy to capture their own view of the festivities.