Making the most of your christmas mini session

Like many photographers during the wonderfully busy autumn and winter season, Christmas mini-sessions are a highlight for me! These short, focused sessions are a chance to capture your little ones just as they are—with their unique personalities shining through. It’s also the perfect opportunity to get the cousins together for a festive photo that the grandparents will adore. Each year, these sessions grow in popularity. After last year’s session at the tree farm, I decided to bring it into the studio this year, drawing on a mood board with a touch of luxe, festive charm, and a hint of wit.

Christmas is a whirlwind in our household (and I’m sure many of you parents know the feeling!). With my birthday in November and my daughter’s on Christmas Day, we jump into full holiday mode on November 1st. This year, our family’s traditional Home Alone movie marathon (I challenge you to find a better kid-friendly Christmas movie!) sparked the idea of creating a fun Santa newspaper, complete with a memorable quote. I hope it brings a smile to you and your family!

Now, I’m sure you have a few questions about these sessions, so let’s start with the big one…

Let Kids Be Kids

Mums, I know how important it is to capture those genuine smiles and sweet moments. It can feel frustrating when they don’t come easily, but please don’t be disappointed if the little ones aren’t all smiles. The most authentic moments are when they’re just being themselves, and that’s what we want to capture! Letting your little ones take the lead is key. Whether they’re a bit shy or full of energy, that’s perfectly okay! My goal is to create a relaxed, enjoyable experience for everyone.

From experience, I know that comfortable kids make for the best photos. To help them feel at ease, try preparing them by chatting about where you’re going and what to expect. Let them know my name and that we’ll be taking some lovely photos for Santa. This makes them feel excited and involved, so they come into the session feeling relaxed. We’re here to create special memories—let’s make it fun for them, too!

What to wear to the christmas session?

Clickable Inspo

When it comes to outfits, think classic Christmas or cozy neutrals. You could go for plaid pajamas (Primark has the same ones I used in my promo shoot!) or festive party wear. Or, for a pulled-together winter look, picture that cozy Ralph Lauren vibe—warm, layered, and timeless. Just a quick note: there’s a no-shoes rule in the studio, so make sure any socks the little ones are wearing are ones you’d like to see in photos!When looking for ideas there are two instagram / style bloggers I always go to first :

https://thelittlestylist.com/ Has a weekly friday faves run down from older kids to babies. Everything on her page is bloomin gorgeous with clickable links so you can shop with ease.

www.instagram.com/mamaloveshighstreet is just the best at finding high street clothes that are affordable and stylish. Ive linked to her page so you can shop from her links. She’s done all the hard work for you - something us mums need at this point in the year!

HIGH STREET SHOPS

ZARA

https://www.zara.com/uk/en/kids-timelesz-collection-l7547.html?v1=2465349

I’m fully in love with Zaras Timelesz Collection at the moment, they have laid it out on the website so its easy to match the tones and shop from complementary pieces - perfect for putting a cohesive look together. Any of the collection would work beautifully for both family sessions and in your festive mini session.

H&M

H&M is a go to for me when I need something quick but stylish (hello next day delivery)

https://www2.hm.com/en_gb/productpage.1257520001.html This cosy neutral co ord is fab for the tiny ones https://www2.hm.com/en_gb/productpage.1240468004.html As is this neutral dress.

For something a little more festive

https://www2.hm.com/en_gb/productpage.1252936001.html this dress would go beautifully with this years theme

and for the boys a casual cosy look like this is always a winner https://www2.hm.com/en_gb/productpage.1245314001.html.

When To Arrive

Now all the planning is out of the way this is the most important bit! If you’ve booked a session with me (I can’t wait to see you!), you should have my address and your session time. Since it’s just me running the show on these busy days, I have a short buffer between each session to keep things on schedule. Your help arriving on time makes a big difference in helping the day run smoothly for everyone!

To make this easy, please leave with enough time to account for parking, as it can sometimes be tricky along the road. Arriving late will impact your session time due to other bookings scheduled throughout the day.

Please come to the door no sooner than 5 minutes before your session start time; this gives me the time I need to get the studio ready. After your session, you’re welcome to use the lounge to put on shoes and coats and don’t forget to take home a festive treat!

If you are a local Essex family and have yet to book your christmas mini session head on over to my booking page to snag your slot

https://book.usesession.com/s/27X6aVxKxG

Slots all gone ? If i can fit in another date and the demand is there I will, so pop me a message via my contact page.

I can’t wait to make this Christmas session magical for you and your family. See you soon!

Emily x