The True Magic of Santa Photos :: Chatting and Bonding with Santa Claus

I sound like a broken record this time of year, but I truly do love my Santa Experience mini sessions. And I love these Santa photos for so many different reasons. And one of the many reasons is because of how fantastic an experience it really is for children. They get 15 minutes of uninterrupted time with Santa Claus. When you go to the mall for Santa photos, there is a long line of children waiting and their goal is to get through as many as possible. With my Santa sessions, it is all about your family for that time. No lines, no stress, just time for chatting and bonding. Which al leads to truly unique once in a lifetime Santa photos.
You can read about the general timeline or blueprint of my Santa Experience mini sessions in this blog post. I go into a little bit of what to expect in terms of how your child will get to bond with Santa. So today I want to really go into some of the fun and exciting things that are included in this session, including all the ways that kiddos can chat and bond with Santa in ways that just won’t happen elsewhere.
For more, check out my Christmas & Holiday Photos Pinterest board, too!


Reading with Santa

One of my favorite interactions for all ages is definitely reading with Santa. Whether your child is able to read along or just listen to a story, these photos are always some favorites. And thanks to the magic of technology I can digitally add some stardust and glitter for a little extra magic in these photos. This works great for all ages, with one child or multiple!





Playing with Toys And Laughing

Santa is always down for a good laugh and a smile. Even if that means getting down on the floor to play with toy cars. This is also a great way to get your little one comfortable. But even if it’s just telling fun stories and getting a laugh out of your little one (or laughing together at the fart noises my assistant makes!), the pictures are priceless.





Sharing Christmas Lists

It wouldn’t be a session with Santa Claus without some Christmas list sharing! What’s the point of having the big guy there himself if not to share all the most wanted toys and presents for Christmas. Watching children get the one on one time with Santa is always so much fun. And just like the other poses and set ups, these Santa photos are once in a lifetime.






Clinking Hot Cocoa Mugs

These pictures are a definite fan favorite, and it’s easy to see why. There are few things cozier than hot cocoa. And who wouldn’t want to share a mug of hot cocoa with Santa?! The cocoa (and fancy steam) might be pretend, but these photos are so worth it.



Remembering Loved Ones
This isn’t something that will be the same for every family. But for Mr. A (my nephew!), the holidays are a time for celebrating and for remembering his older brother, Mr. Q, who passed away. He brought along this canvas of his brother to include in these photos. This is such a special way to honor lost loved ones, and I’m so glad I was able to make this happen for him and his parents.

Giving Hugs to Santa

The perfect way to end any session with Santa is with hugs! Not a requirement for any kiddos who aren’t interested in giving hugs. But for the ones who do, it is a perfect way to end the session and get some really sweet and adorable photos. Whether it’s a quick cuddle on the little sofa or a big bear hug, we love all hugs! This once in a lifetime experience leads to such amazing Santa photos, too.





Playing Pranks on Santa
Last but CERTAINLY not least is a relatively new one for me and it’s safe to say I’m a little obsessed. This works best with older kids but it is equal parts cute and hilarious. Playing pranks on Santa! My own daughters were cheeky and stole Santa’s cookies. A few other kiddos snuck up behind him and stole his keys as he packed presents! Let’s hope they all still made the nice list.



If you’re looking for a truly unique and special experience for your kids, look no further than my Santa Experience mini sessions. Full of fun, chatting, bonding, adorable moments, and one of a kind keepsake portraits. We are located in Andover MA and serve clients from around the area including Somerville, Medford, Burlington, Methuen, and beyond. Kate McKenna has been photographing babies and children of all ages since 2009. Contact Kate today to learn more.
