Preparing for Christmas Mini Sessions
It’s that magical time of year again—get ready for Little Branch Photography’s Christmas and Holiday mini sessions, complete with giggles and fun!
Holiday mini sessions are always some of my favorites because joy radiates from every child’s face this time of year. The giddiness, toothy grins, and childlike wonder photograph so beautifully, and I know these moments are precious for you, too. It’s incredible how much little ones grow from year to year, so it’s important to capture that sweet childhood sparkle while you can.
That being said, I’m a mama, too. I know that you can’t always force the magic. It has to unfold organically. Inevitably, between the preparatory outfit coordination and stubborn cowlicks, getting ready for a mini photo session might bring out a little fussiness.
However, I want this to be a special and stress-free time for you. These ten-minute sessions are perfect for little ones with short attention spans. They often come into the studio with oohs and ahs over the sparkling set, and that’s exactly the kind of excitement I want to capture for you. Below are ways to help you prepare for these fun and festive sessions!
Tips for Preparing for Your Child’s Christmas Mini Session
Christmas and holiday mini sessions are ten minutes each and take place in my Houston Heights photography studio. We can easily capture so many cute moments of your little one in a short amount of time, and they are perfect for your Christmas and holiday cards!
Select the Perfect Holiday Backdrop
Option One: Gold hoop with red and white floral arrangements in front of a white backdrop, pictured above. This elegant minimalist set is extra versatile for holiday cards, wall art, gifts, décor, and more.
Option Two: Green holly backdrop pictured below. This backdrop complements almost all outfit styles and colors. The subtle seasonal background keeps all the focus on your cutie(s).
Option Three: The Christmas cabin. A cozy winter scene features frosted windows and an glowing Christmas tree, pictured below the holly example. This nostalgic set has all the built-in design elements for a stand-alone Christmas card, holiday art, or treasured Christmas gifts.
What to Wear for Holiday Mini Sessions
What better time to go all-out with cute holiday outfits?! Red, white, cream, gold, or silver photograph well.
Consider your chosen backdrop so your child does not clash or blend into the background. For example, avoid green outfits with the holly backdrop. You want some color contrast so your child doesn’t blend into the trees (some green is fine).
If you want to display your photos year-round, the gold hoop is a versatile set that pairs well with a holiday theme and off-season décor. These cuties wore navy and red, so their portraits could go either way.
You may want to pack a backup outfit in the car just in case a spill or mishap happens on the way over.
How to Get Real Smiles
Next up, it’s time to get real smiles and contagious giggles out of your kiddo!
First, clean your cutie’s face before the session begins. There won't be much time for clean-up once your time slot starts, and a last-minute wipe-down can make them unhappy or irritate their skin.
Depending on your child’s age and personality, sometimes getting those smiles can be challenging when a stranger is holding a camera in front of them, especially for babies and toddlers. I may need your help by standing behind me and making silly faces, singing, or dancing to make your little one laugh. They love their mommy or daddy more than anyone else! Think of a few ways to make them laugh before you arrive. It’s easy to forget when you’re in the moment! Feel free to bring along their favorite toy or lovie (they can even make an appearance in the photos), or have your phone ready to play their favorite songs.
Think outside the box. Sometimes, silly faces don’t do the trick. The key is to evoke genuine fun and laughter; interaction often helps them focus less on the camera and more on the silly game. Try:
Animal sounds or “What do ducks say?” game
Peek-a-boo
Big reactions
Try,“Now, don’t you smile...” or “Where’s that sweet smile?”
Play “I’ve got your nose.”
Play “I’m gonna get you!”
Try, “Are you a model?! Look at that smile!”
Play “What’s your favorite _____”
Have them tickle or kiss a sibling
Dance
Strike a pose
Prepare for Arrival
Since we’re in Houston, give yourself plenty of time to get to the studio before your session in case of any traffic or mishaps.
Bring along some snacks to keep your child happy while you wait. Be sure it’s nothing that will mess up their outfits, like fruit or chocolate. Crackers or cereal are great options.
Use the car ride to prepare your child for what to expect. Let them know I will have a prize box if they smile and follow directions (if they need a little incentive).
The studio has a bathroom if anyone needs a last-minute bathroom break.
Deliverables
Get Ready to Send Out Dazzling Holiday Cards!
You will receive your photos 2-3 weeks after your session, so please keep this in mind when planning for card ordering, gifts, etc. If you have an urgent request, I can have your photos ready in 5-7 days for a $100 rush fee.
I will deliver your photos in a password-protected online album. The photos will be watermarked and protected from download. You can select your (2) images, which will be ready for instant digital download, and you can use your high-res photos for prints, cards, gifts, and digital displays.
**Mini sessions are available for children 4 months and older. If you have a baby under 4 months old, a newborn photography session would be more suitable for safety, comfort, and time.
Please let me know if you have any questions! I am looking forward to seeing you all!
