Booking Holiday Family Photos

If you’ve been dreaming of capturing the magic of this holiday season, you’re in the right place! Keep reading for everything you need to know about planning your holiday family photos—and don’t forget to grab my free planning guide to make it all stress-free and fun!

Why Holiday Family Photos Are A Must

The holiday season is all about connection—spending time with loved ones, celebrating traditions, and creating memories you’ll cherish forever. Holiday family photos capture those moments, freezing time in a way that allows you to relive them for years to come.

I’ve had families tell me how much they love looking back at their holiday portraits every year, especially as their children grow. It’s a beautiful way to see how your family grows and changes through the years.

Family portraits are more than just pictures; they’re a way to document the love, joy, and personality of your family during one of the most magical times of the year. Whether it’s for your annual holiday card, gifts, or simply to frame and hang in your home, professional family photos are a meaningful investment that keeps the heart of your family alive every season.

The Perfect Time To Book Your Holiday Family Photos

When it comes to holiday family photos, timing is everything! The holiday season is one of the busiest times of year for family photographers, so booking early ensures you get the perfect session date and have plenty of time to plan.

Aim to schedule your session at least 2-3 months in advance, if possible. This not only guarantees a spot in my calendar but also allows time to coordinate outfits, choose the perfect location, and prepare stress-free. Early booking means you can relax knowing your holiday photos and gift prints will be ready in time for the festive season.

Choosing the Right Location for Your Photos

The right location can set the tone for your holiday family photos, and Nashville offers so many beautiful backdrops to choose from! Whether you prefer the warmth and coziness of an at-home session or the charm of a scenic outdoor location, there’s something perfect for every family.

If you’re drawn to outdoor spaces, think about parks with vibrant fall foliage or twinkling holiday lights. For a more personal touch, an at-home session can bring the warmth of your family’s traditions to life, showcasing your holiday decorations or cozying up around the fireplace. No matter the location, the key is choosing a location that reflects your family’s unique style and story.

Some of my favorite spots for festive family photos are Centennial Park and Cheekwood!

What to Wear

Coordinating outfits for your holiday family photos doesn’t have to be stressful! Keep these tips in mind:

• Seasonal Colors: Start with a seasonal color palette like deep greens, rich reds, or neutral tones accented with metallics.
• Complement, Don’t Match: Use layers, textures, and subtle patterns that add depth without overwhelming the photos.
• Mix Formal and Casual: Put kids in cozy sweaters and parents in festive outfits, and everyone in coordinate tones to bring a balance.
• Accessorize: Hats, scarves, and holiday-themed props like blankets or ornaments can add a touch of fun and personality to your portraits. Plus – it gives the kids something to hold or interact with during the session, helping them feel relaxed and engaged.

Making the Session Fun and Stress-Free for the Entire Family

Family photo sessions should be a fun and relaxed experience, not something to dread! To keep everyone happy and engaged, I’ll guide you through poses while allowing space for candid moments that capture your family’s personality, just as you are.

If you have little ones, I recommend bringing snacks, small toys, or anything that helps them feel comfortable. Breaks for giggles and playtime are all part of the process! My goal is to create a stress-free environment where everyone can enjoy themselves and focus on the joy of being together.

What to Expect During Your Session

Every holiday family photo session is unique and designed to reflect the love and personality of your family. We’ll start with a mix of posed shots and natural, candid moments, working together to capture both the big smiles and the quiet, heartfelt connections.

I’ll take the time to get to know your family before the session, so we can create photos that feel truly authentic to you—whether that’s playful candids, classic portraits, or a mix of both.

Expect to laugh, play, and have fun as we work through a variety of poses and prompts. Whether it’s cozy shots with your kids, couple portraits, or the whole family together, I’ll ensure your photos feel genuine and full of life.