What to Expect during Your Santa Claus Photos Mini Session :: Andover MA Photographer
Every year I offer Santa Claus experience mini session. And every year they are a hit. For both children and their parents! And while I have many repeat customers who come over every year to see the jolly man himself, I also have parents who come for the first time and aren’t sure what to expect. So without further ado, here is a run down of the day! A quick note about these sessions as a whole: since Santa is a pretty busy man this time of year I am only able to offer a very limited number of sessions a year. They are spread out between two days and each session is about 15 minutes a piece. Just something to keep in mind!
The first thing to know about your actual Santa Claus mini session is that not all kids are going to take kindly toa large man in a bright red suit. Unfortunately (and understandably) that’s just the way it goes sometimes. This is pretty typical for children between a year and a half to three years old. But that being said not every child is the same. And as such they all react a little differently. No worries though, we have a few tricks up our sleeves after many years of having Santa as a guest in our studio. One set of brothers really surprised me when they turned around, saw Santa, and excitedly squealed “Santa!” and gave him a big hug. My heart melted for sure!
The Schedule of the Session
Since these sessions are short, I have a pretty well-honed routine for them. First, we always start with a portrait of just your kiddo(s). Then Santa comes in behind them and we get some of my favorite photos. These are the ones where he’s putting gifts under the tree, putting his finger up to his lips as if to say “shh” to the viewer. It’s magical! At this point we introduce Santa and sometimes it goes very well and sometimes Santa scoots into the back again for a bit while we calm your child down and get them smiling and happy.
I typically have big chocolate chip cookies that Mrs. Claus made for Santa to bring with him. When you book in, there is an opportunity to let me know if you would rather skip that. But after your little one is comfortable with Santa, we bring out the cookies. This is another fun moment that always leads to adorable photos. I also always advise parents to come dressed picture-ready. That way if there is time (or if the little ones really don’t want to be alone with Santa) parents can hop in a photo or two!
For families with more than three kiddos, we really do need more time than one mini session allows. That’s a lot of emotions and personalities to contend with! The family below booked two sessions, back-to-back. This meant we ended up with enough time for all of the usual photos and even some extra time. Mom brought along some presents for Santa to give to the children. It was a wonderful experience for them. And a great moment for me to witness!
Little Moments and Details
Since I have been offering these sessions for so long, I have accumulated some props and accessories to add to the magic. I have fun accessories like hot cocoa mugs (not real!). Last year some kiddos clinked hot cocoa mugs with Santa which was hilarious. I have toys that kids can play with to get comfortable or to distract them.
And as far as interacting with Santa, this is the real deal Santa. He’ll read them Christmas books. He gives lots of high fives. And he’ll even listen to Christmas lists. These are more than just photo sessions, it truly is a whole experience for your kids (and you!). And then in post processing I add a little sparkle and magic to add just the right touch.
And one final note: your child may stick his or her finger up their nose. And that is just fine–I click away and capture every moment. And I definitely include the funny photos in your gallery alongside the sentimental ones. These photos are always such great representations of our children and the perfect keepsakes!
For more festive fun check out my Christmas & Holiday Photo Pinterest board!
Are you looking for photos with Santa? Our Santa Claus Experience mini session is always a fun way to get into the holiday spirit. These are super limited sessions since Santa Claus is very busy this time of year. Crabapple Photography is located in Andover and serves clients from around the greater Boston, North Shore, and southern New Hampshire area. Kate McKenna has been photographing babies and children of all ages since 2009. Contact Kate today to learn more.
