I have been creating Christmas cards every year since I got married. I currently have 19 cards, and this Christmas will be the 20th. This means 20 photography sessions, 20 different locations, and 20 times planning outfits. Most times I do it myself, sometimes I hire a fellow photographer. 

So Why? That sounds like a lot of work. 

As a photographer, I capture moments all the time. I also want to ensure that my family’s memories are preserved. That also meant I didn’t feel the need to photograph my kids constantly but could put the camera down until it was Christmas card time or their birthdays. 

Every year, our family was in a different stage - where we lived, what the kids were interested in, and what we did for fun as a family. These annual Christmas cards served as a visual marker for me to look back and see a glimpse of what life was like at that time. 

Most people don’t do family photos/cards every year, and I get it. Every other year, or every three years seems to be the norm. It is a lot of work. 

For me, it’s a bit simpler. I have already scouted lots of beautiful locations at varying times. And many I use regularly because they are tried and true. So, when I walk in with my kids, half the battle is done because I know the light and it will be beautiful! 

The most challenging part is being unable to hold the camera and quickly find the best angles. I have to use a tripod for the images I’m in or direct someone else who has the camera instead of just being able to enjoy the moment. Although it requires effort, I enjoy providing for my family this way. 

Whether you’re a family that gets new photos every year or one that does so once in a while, I would be delighted to serve you in the Phoenix, Arizona area. 

More Christmas Card Designs!

Location: Master Bedroom 

Lighting: Window Light + Reflector 

Pet: Prince, Breed-Cavalier, 10 weeks old 

We have a new puppy at home, and he has turned everything upside down! All the puppy kisses and cuddles make it worth it. He is super smart and is learning quickly. I said to a friend, “Our puppy is like a toddler; he makes a mess wherever he goes, and he’s everybody’s favorite!” We are all enjoying taking care of him.

It is especially beneficial for my kids because my twin boys don’t have younger siblings. They can see how to help take care of something smaller than them. Additionally, my daughter was only 2.5 years older than her brothers, so she was little like they were. 

I first met my boy, Prince, when I was with Sarah at Catella Cavaliers & Cavapoos. He was the oldest in a litter of purebred puppies that belonged to Sarah. You can find more about that initial photoshoot in an earlier blog post here. 

After I got him, I waited a couple of weeks before taking photos of him in my home. I selected the master bedroom so that he could be on the bed and unable to escape. The room is on the second floor and has two large windows that provide plenty of soft light.

Some challenges: 

 His face has black, tan, and white markings. It took me a moment to adjust the exposure to capture the details in his black fur without overexposing the white areas. I positioned my reflector to bounce light onto his face. 

He is an energetic puppy, which is normal. I used treats and my daughter helped get his attention by calling his name. That’s also why I chose a big, bright space so that he could move around, and I could still capture great shots of him. 

At the end he started trying to jump off the bed, the signal that the session was over. He gave me a good 15 minutes, which was plenty of time!

Minis are a way to photograph portraits in a beautiful way, that is also efficient with time. A 20-minute photography session is short and sweet. I am experienced and work quickly! 

The kids are growing like wildflowers and changing so quickly! Let’s document this wonderful age and stage! 

In the city of Anthem with easy parking to make your visit as convenient as possible! 

I set up Mini’s at the beginning of October because as fall progresses the holidays come and don’t stop until after the start of the New Year. Halloween at the end of October, Thanksgiving at the End of November, and Christmas at the end of December. Phew! 

Minis come with 25 Christmas Cards or Thank you Cards. They also come with envelopes that have your return address already printed on them! Makes things easier for you! 

The cards are fully customizable. If you typically include a summary of the past year on the back, we can easily add that. 

Cards are beautiful with foil accents and are unique compared with mainstream options! 

Mini Photography Sessions are not just for families! I can photograph portraits of babies, children for their birthday, couples, maternity, and graduates!