Christmas Mini Sessions: How to Prepare
Believe it or not, Christmas is just around the corner! And with that comes the fun and festive (yet often obligatory) Christmas card photos! Here is how to prepare for Christmas Mini Sessions to ensure the jolliest of Christmas cards and family memories are made!
FIND A PHOTOGRAPHER AND SET UP YOU LIKE
When planning Christmas mini sessions, make sure you like the photographer's personality, editing style and of course, the set up they will provide. This can usually all be found on their social media accounts. If everything works with you and your style, you've got a winner. If not, keep looking until you are happy. The goal is to be excited for the photos and feel comfortable with the photographer's personality and style. Easy peasy!
PLAN OUTFITS
Hate to tell you, but outfits can either make or break a good photos (especially for Christmas mini sessions). Depending on the Christmas Mini set up (and the weather), you will have to plan accordingly. If the set up is already very festive and colourful, choose something more neutral and subdued. If it's minimalistic in design, get out your most festive ensembles (if that's your jam...always stay true to YOU!) Here are some mood boards to get you started.
Remember, you do not have to match, but coordinate. Think - one person in pattern, one in neutral, the rest pulling some colours from the patterned outfit. My fave go-to places to shop for the family are: H&M, Gap, Old Navy and if just for the kids, head to Carter's.
DON'T FORGET LAYERS
Since Christmas typically falls in winter (for us Calgarians it does!), this is a no-brainer! Not only do layers provide warmth, but they add to that whole Christmas-winter vibe! Scarves, toques, jackets, tights, mittens, fuzzy boots, even blankets will do the trick. Textures and layers help create interest, tell a story AND keep you warm! Please remember though, Christmas mini sessions are usually very short. So if you've got this amazing outfit you want to show off without a coat...then just do it!
LEAVE TIME TO GET READY
Moms, I cannot stress this point strong enough. There's nothing worse than rushing out the door and showing up to your session a flustered, hot mess! Leave plenty of time for the kids to get ready AND you. Bring Grandma or a friend over if needed, so they can watch the kids while you get ready. Just do it! You will thank me for the suggestion later.
CONSIDER OFFERING A REWARD/BRIBE
Christmas mini sessions are short. Don't waste the valuable time fighting to get those smiles. Let your children know if they come with smiles and positive attitudes, they will get a reward after (Dads too!) And FYI, there's absolutely nothing cuter than natural, candid photos, so if your littles aren't "cooperating," just go with the flow. A good photographer will capture the magic no matter what.
HAVE FUN
I know the holidays are busy and stressful at times, but remember, it goes by SO fast. Don't forget to have fun! Head to your Christmas mini session with open hearts: ready to giggle, smile, laugh and play, and create lasting memories. Bonus - your high spirits will surely impress and entertain your friends and family come Christmas card time!
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THANKS!
Hey it's me
Welcome to my blog
I'm Marcella (pronounced Mar-Sella), your friend behind the lens at
Love & Sunshine Photography.
Lover of nature, travel, dogs & chai lattes. And most importantly, my family.
Creative by nature, genuinely loves taking and editing photos, and thrives on building relationships and capturing meaningful connections.
This is where I’ll share my latest sessions, photography resources, fave things, and perhaps even some inspiring info for running your own business.
xo Marcella
