5 Ways to Make the Most of your Christmas Mini Session This Year

Fa-la-la-la Christmas is almost here! November is the perfect time to take your Christmas photos, because it allows you time to print and mail your Christmas cards to family members.  Whether you’re here because you are interested in booking a Christmas Mini Session, or you’ve already booked your Christmas photos, here are 5 things you need to know that will give your Christmas portraits that w-o-w factor, and help the session run smoothly. 

1. Always Arrive Early, Early, Early

Timing is everything when it comes to mini sessions. Photographers offer these because they are able to fit multiple families in a given time frame, which means that there is most likely someone scheduled immediately after you. Arriving early to your session will give you and your family time to do last minute fixes to wardrobe, use the restroom if needed, attend to the needs of your children after a car ride, and make sure you get to your location on time. This is extra important if you are traveling a far distance to make it to the event or you have never been to the location before. 

2. Coordinating Outfits Doesn’t Have to be Hard! 

This is the one part that most of my clients tend to freak out about, but it’s actually a simple concept. Here are my guidelines for successful outfit coordinating:

1. Neutral and Earth Tone Colors: White is always great! Jeans or khaki complement most outfits very well.

2. Layers and Texture:  Have fun by adding some texture/ layers to outfits with a vest, ribbed clothing, scarves or jackets that can be added and removed to give different looks!

3. Patterns: We want to limit patterns at all costs, because they can be distracting. If you do want to include a pattern, make sure it’s on the neutral side, and that there is only one member of the family wearing the pattern. (2 max if it’s a larger family.) 

Confused about how to coordinate specifically for Christmas? I got you. You can follow the guidelines above (because they will always work for any type of session!) or click here to check out all of my Christmas outfit inspiration. Click here to view my neutral coordinating outfit Pinterest board!

#3. Bring Props That Add Sentimental Value

Bring props! All the props! Jingle bells, a Christmas present, a festive blanket. You may also think about bringing items that will add sentimental value to your pictures. Consider bringing one of grandma’s handmade ornaments, baby’s first Christmas ornament, a family heirloom, or something special to be photographed in the images with your family. You can also ask your photographer to take a quick photo of that item individually if there is time.

#4. Think About The Christmas Photo You Want to Print Before Having the Photos Taken

I recommend exploring different printing and design services before your session so you can get an idea of the type of photo you want. (Maybe it’s a closer shot, or one of you all holding hands!) If the intention of hiring your photographer for a mini session is to print a Holiday card, looking into how you are going to design your card is only going to help! Plus, then you can tell your photographer where you want the focus to be during the session (maybe sitting the whole time vs. standing, for example.)

#5. Pick the Right Photographer for Your Family

It’s super important to pick the right Photographer for your needs, specifically! Here are some questions you can ask yourself before booking a photographer:

1. Does this photographer have experience working with kids?

2. Does this photographer’s editing style fit with the vision I have for printing my Christmas card?

3. Does this photographer’s style fit with what I’m looking for? Does their portfolio convey that? (ex: candid moments, playful vs. more posed portraits.)

I hope these 5 tips help you with preparing for your Mini Session this Christmas, or hiring the right photographer to book with for the Holidays! I know how overwhelming it can be, trust me!

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