How to Prepare for Your Holiday Mini Session

The Holiday season is upon us! And it is one of the most magical times of the year—a season filled with love, family, and memories worth preserving. At Turner Hill Photography, we’re thrilled to once again offer holiday mini sessions, designed to capture the warmth and joy of the season in just 15 minutes. These quick sessions are perfect for busy families who want stunning, timeless photos that reflect the love they share. To help you make the most of your mini session, we’ve put together some essential tips, from outfit selection to prepping your family for a smooth and memorable experience.

1. The Importance of Outfit Selection

Your outfit choices can make a big difference in how your holiday photos turn out. Here are some pointers to help you pick the perfect attire:

• Coordinate, Don’t Match: Instead of dressing everyone in the same color or identical outfits, aim for a coordinated look. Choose colors that complement each other while allowing each family member’s personality to shine. This way, your photos will look cohesive but not overly “matchy-matchy.” For example, if one family member is in a rich, forest-green sweater, another might wear a tan or cream outfit to balance the tones.
• Stick to Neutral or Seasonal Colors: Neutrals like beige, ivory, and olive green are timeless and work well with the natural light often used in outdoor sessions. For a more festive look, incorporate seasonal colors like deep reds, forest green, or navy. These colors give a subtle nod to the holiday season without overwhelming the photo.
• Avoid Large Logos and Busy Patterns: While patterns can add interest, busy patterns or large logos tend to draw attention away from your faces. Stick to simple, small patterns like plaid or subtle textures that add dimension without overpowering the image.
• Layer Up for Texture and Comfort: Layers like cardigans, scarves, or vests not only add texture and depth but can also give your photos a cozy feel. Layers are particularly helpful for outdoor sessions, as they allow you to adjust for weather while keeping everyone comfortable.

2. Prepping Kids for Quick Photos

Kids are often the stars of holiday mini sessions, but it can be challenging to get them focused and camera-ready in such a short amount of time. Here are some tips to help them prepare:

• Talk About the Session in Advance: Prepare your kids by discussing the session ahead of time. Let them know it’s a special, fun activity to capture family moments together. If they know what to expect, they’ll be more comfortable and relaxed when it’s time to take pictures.
• Bring Small Distractions: We know it can be hard to keep kids entertained during any type of wait time. Consider bringing a small toy, book, or favorite item they can hold while waiting for their turn in front of the camera. This also gives us a chance to capture candid, playful moments that reflect their personality.
• Promise a Reward: A little incentive can work wonders! Whether it’s a holiday treat, a trip to their favorite park, or hot chocolate afterward, a reward gives them something to look forward to. A happy, motivated child makes for a smooth session and genuine smiles.

3. Bringing Props for a Personal Touch

Props can add a unique, personal element to your photos, making them even more memorable. However, it’s best to keep props simple and meaningful.

• Small, Sentimental Items: Bringing a small family heirloom, like a cherished holiday ornament or a festive blanket, can add a personal touch without overwhelming the image. If you have a special family item, let us know beforehand, and we can find ways to incorporate it thoughtfully.
• Outdoor Comforts: For outdoor sessions, items like a cozy plaid blanket can serve multiple purposes. Not only can it be used as a prop for family cuddles, but it also doubles as a practical way to keep warm on chilly days.
• Less Is More: Remember, mini sessions are quick, so fewer props allow us to capture more authentic moments. A couple of well-chosen items can add that perfect seasonal touch without distracting from the main focus: you and your family.

4. Arriving on Time is Key

Punctuality is essential for making the most of your holiday mini session. Here’s why it matters:

• Maximizing Your Session Time: With only 15 minutes, every moment counts. Arriving at least 5–10 minutes early allows you to get settled, adjust any last-minute details, and start on time. This extra time also gives little ones a chance to acclimate to the surroundings, which can be particularly helpful if it’s their first photo session.
• Keeping the Schedule Flowing: Many families are scheduled back-to-back during mini sessions, so arriving promptly helps us stay on schedule and ensure everyone gets the full experience. Your timeliness ensures a relaxed, efficient session for all involved.

5. Keeping it Simple and Fun

Finally, remember that mini sessions are all about capturing your family’s genuine connection and holiday spirit. Here’s how to keep things lighthearted and stress-free:

• Enjoy the Moment: Sometimes, the best photos are the candid ones—those shared smiles, laughs, or even a silly face from one of the kids. Feel free to relax and have fun during the session. These little moments often lead to the most heartwarming photos.
• Let Us Guide You: At Turner Hill Photography, we know how to bring out the best in each family. From posing tips to creating natural smiles, we’ll guide you through every step. So, if you’re feeling a bit unsure, trust that we’ll help you look your best in every frame.
• Bring Your Holiday Spirit: Whether it’s a favorite holiday tune you want to hum or a special phrase that makes everyone laugh, feel free to share it with us! A little holiday cheer goes a long way in capturing the season’s warmth and joy.

Preparing for your Turner Hill Photography holiday mini session doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right outfit choices, a bit of planning for the kids, and a few meaningful props, you’re all set for a session that captures your family’s holiday spirit beautifully. Remember, our goal is to make the experience as fun and effortless as possible—so bring your holiday cheer, your smiles, and we’ll take care of the rest!

If you have any questions or need further assistance before your session, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We can’t wait to capture these special moments and create beautiful memories with you this holiday season!