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Bella Day Photography
Little girl in a pink dress and flower crown on a garden path

Journal

Holiday mini sessions: what to expect

By Kelly ·

Every November and December I offer holiday mini sessions: short, relaxed sessions that are perfect for Christmas cards and gifts for grandparents. If you’ve never done one, here’s what to expect.

How a mini session works

A mini session is shorter than a full family session, which makes it a great fit for little kids with little attention spans. We focus on a handful of great photos: the whole family, the kids together, and a few fun candid moments.

Planning outfits

  • Pick a color palette, not matching outfits. Two or three colors that go together look more natural than identical shirts.
  • Add texture. Knits, sweaters and scarves photograph beautifully in the winter.
  • Dress for the weather. Cold, uncomfortable kids don’t smile, so bring coats for between shots.
  • Start with the parents. It’s easiest to plan your own outfits first and coordinate the kids around them.

Making it fun for kids

My favorite thing is making people comfortable in front of the camera, and that goes double for kids. We’ll play, laugh and let the little ones be little. Bring a favorite snack as a reward for afterward. It works wonders.

Booking

Holiday dates and pricing change each year, so contact me for this season’s details. You can also see more about family sessions.

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Tell me your date and a little about your plans. I’d love to hear from you, and there’s never any pressure.