If you want some Santa photos with cousins, can you book one session?

I have a rule that each session is for immediate family only and cousins should book two consecutive sessions. This is for several reasons, but one being that if there are multiple toddlers in the 18 month to three age group, it will take much longer to let multiple children warm up to Santa (also if one child is scared it can be contagious to the others who could be uncertain and cousins are more likely to be closer to the same age, whereas siblings are usually spaced out in age more). This can put us very behind and isn’t fair to others waiting. When the children aren’t in this age range it’s much easier, however every client will go through a year or two when they will need extra time, so it averages out over the course of several years coming to Santa Sessions.

Also keep in mind, you might not get as many images the more children there are in a session and will have to split the number of downloads.

All this to say, just be considerate. If there are several toddlers in your group, maybe book two consecutive sessions (limit is four children per session).

If you just book one, we probably kick you out or anything ;)

Can I book multiple time slots if I think my child needs more time to warm up to Santa or if I just want more time/image downloads?

Of course! Several clients choose to book consecutive time slots so that their child can have a little more time with Santa or if they have 4 or more children and want each child to have extra time. Remember, this session isn’t just about having timeless images, but it’s for the child to have an experience with Santa. This is their time to encounter the magic of Santa, and we don’t want any child to feel rushed.

What do I put my children in to wear?

Isn’t this always the most stressful part of any photo session? We get it and we’re here to help! For ideas on what to have your children wear for these sessions, I have created a curated pinterest board you can see here. I recommend simple clothing or pajamas in solid, neutral, or subtle holiday colors. The setting will be all white with a mantle and simple garland in the background, so keep in mind that bold colors, patterns, graphics, text on clothing as well as large accessories may stand out and distract from the emotional connection your child has with Santa in these images.

Additionally, we partner with our favorite local children’s boutique, Swaddle, each year when their holiday collections start rolling in. I visit the store and Rachel and I go through all of the adorable options giving you ideas and a convenient, local resource to shop! We typically email all clients with the time and date that we go live on Instagram so you don’t miss it!

How long does it take to get my images back?

Due to the volume of Santa Sessions we shoot and the time-consuming nature of uploading, editing, etc -, image galleries can take up to two weeks to receive. We edit in the order we shoot (pro tip-booking earlier in the day is always best and you’ll get your images back earlier!). However, you can purchase a RUSH gallery add-on and receive your gallery within 48 hours of your session. This is especially nice for those December dates to be able to get your photos back and get your holiday cards done quickly. We take a limited number of rush gallery options for each Santa event, so space is limited if you want to add that on. You’ll have the option to add it on the day of your session if there is availability.

I’m on the fence about a Lux session, can you explain the difference between Lux and Classic Sessions?

The LUX, or Luxury Santa Session was introduced in 2022 and were even more amazing that I had anticipated! They are longer sessions, so if you have a toddler who might be apprehensive with Santa and need more time, or if you have several children it’s a great option! Santa studies all the details about the children and they are amazed at how much he remembers about them! Children can play games, have story time, or share a cookie and milk with Santa and have more interaction without being rushed. Because there is more time, you will get more images and all the images are included in this session. Plus there are additional perks and gifts and well, just be prepared to be spoiled and pampered if you choose the Lux Session!

Since these sessions are several months away, will I be able to move my session if I need to as it gets closer?

Yes, of course! Be sure to save your original booking email and refer back to it. Should you need to reschedule your session, click on the link in that email. You can only reschedule, however if there are other available time slots. You can always contact me and I can try to fit you into a different day if there are no available times left. In the case that we get to the last Santa event day and you still cannot make it, I will issue you a credit in the amount you paid for a 2024 Santa Session (credits do not apply to any other type of session).

What if my toddler is scared of Santa...can you take pics without him first and then with him after?

Yes! When you book your session you will answer a few questions to let us know your child may be apprehensive about Santa. We see this on our info sheet tell Santa to hide before we call you in We work our magic and take it step by step and hopefully they love Santa by the end of our time together! If not, we can take a few photos of just the child without Santa or - parent call- put the child on Santa’s lap and see what happens (it’s a classic!)