Christmas session season is here! Whether you’ve booked a mini session at the tree farm or a cozy session in the studio, a little preparation goes a long way. After years of photographing families during the holidays, I’ve learned that the most relaxed sessions (and the best photos) usually start well before anyone steps in front of the camera. Here are my top five tips to help your family feel ready, comfortable, and excited for your session.

Joyful Christmas Photo — One of my favorite Christmas sets, with my favorite little clients 🥹

Tip #1: Plan your outfits

I always say neutrals are the safest option because they photograph beautifully. But it’s the festive season (and honestly, this goes for any time of year), so there’s no harm in adding some color. I do believe that color makes your photos more interesting and also shows off your family’s personality.

Check in with your photographer to see which color palette works best with the set you’re going for. If you’ve booked with me, you should have received a styling guide for your specific set. If you didn’t get it, please email me ASAP.

As a general rule, avoid busy patterns, thin stripes, and logos. They’re distracting in photos.

If your session is outdoors, like at the tree farm, prioritize warmth. The temperature drops quickly this time of year, and the wind can be chilly. Plan for layers. If the day turns out warm, it’s much easier to take a layer off than to scramble for one when you’re cold. Think base layers, tights or leggings under a maxi dress, warm socks, and boots. Keep your family warm and toasty!

If your session is in a studio, keep in mind that most studios have an indoor shoe policy. Pack the shoes you want to wear in your photos and change into them when you arrive.

Christmas in a garden shed — This set was built in a garden shed. It was so nice and warm when I visited in the summer, but on the day of the sessions in November, it was freezing! Our clients were such champs that day, and I learned my lesson the hard way: always prepare my clients for warmth first.

Tip #2: Early is better than late

This is especially important for mini sessions. Plan extra time for traffic and parking. Mini sessions are short, and your time can’t be extended if you arrive late. It’s stressful for you and your photographer, and it isn’t fair to the family booked after you. Arriving early gives you time to walk around, take a bathroom break, and have a snack, so you’ll feel much more relaxed when it’s your turn.

Christmas mini session — A cozy barn studio at All Who Wander Flower Farm, and one of my favorite captures 😍

Tip #3: Bring snacks that don’t stain

Speaking of snacks, some are best saved for after the session. Lollipops can stain tongues and fruit can stain clothes, and you don’t want all your preparation undone by a last-minute stain. Some stain-free favorites: mini marshmallows, gummy bunnies, dried fruit, and star puffs. They’re small, easy to pack, and mess-free.

Tip #4: Come with a full belly

Photographers sometimes run behind. It doesn’t happen often, but it does happen (I ran late during my fall minis last week!). So come to your session with a full belly. When everyone is fed, everyone is happy. When everyone is warm, everyone is comfortable. And a happy, comfortable family makes for a much smoother session.

Family Christmas Photo — When you choose to focus on the fun and not perfection.

Tip #5: Leave room in your expectations

I won’t tell you to come without expectations. You’ve invested in this session and put so much effort into preparing for it, so of course you want everything to go well and to walk away with beautiful photos for your holiday card. Trust me, I want that too. I hope and pray for every session to go smoothly. More than anyone, we photographers want to capture you and your family in the most beautiful way.

But holding on too tightly to a set picture of how things should go can backfire. The smallest unplanned moment (a toddler meltdown, a gust of wind, a dog who won’t sit) can easily throw you off. So instead of expecting perfection, expect a little real life. Leave room for things that don’t go as planned, and trust that even then, all will be well. Some of my favorite images come from those unplanned moments.

Christmas table — Absolutely love this shoot back in 2024.

If you’ve had a session with me before, you already know these tips by heart. If you haven’t, I hope they help you feel ready for your upcoming session. Wherever you’ve booked, I know your photographer will be wonderful and your photos will be beautiful. And if you’re joining me for a Christmas session this year, I can’t wait to meet you and your family!