It might still feel early, but now is the perfect time to think about your holiday card photos. Every year, families reach out in December hoping for a quick session, and by then most dates are gone.
Here's how to plan ahead so you can enjoy beautiful, stress-free photos for your cards this year.
Why Book Your Holiday Photos Early
Booking early gives you more choice and less stress.
More dates to choose from. Fall weekends fill up quickly.
Better weather odds. Early fall usually brings milder evenings and colourful leaves.
Time to choose your favourites. You won't feel rushed picking photos.
Time to order. Card printers get busy as the holidays approach.
[Note for Autumn: add your gallery turnaround time and any booking deadline for holiday card sessions.]
Choose a Look for Your Cards
Think about the feeling you want your holiday card to have.
Warm and cozy: Fall leaves, knit sweaters, and snuggles on a blanket.
Snowy and magical: A winter session with soft snow, warm coats, and rosy cheeks.
Classic and simple: Neutral outfits and a clean, natural backdrop that works with any card design.
Outfit Ideas for Holiday Card Photos
Holiday photos are a great time to add a little richness to your colour palette.
Deep green, burgundy, and cream
Camel, navy, and soft grey
Chunky knits and cozy scarves
Plaid in small doses, worn by just one person
Avoid big holiday graphics or light-up sweaters unless that's truly your family's vibe. Timeless outfits let your photos work for years of display.
Think About Your Card Layout
A little planning helps your favourite photo fit your card perfectly.
Leave space for text. I'll capture some photos with open space around your family.
Get both vertical and horizontal shots. Card designs vary, so options help.
Include close-ups and wide shots. Multi-photo cards look great with a mix.
If you already have a card design in mind, share it with me before the session.
Beyond the Card
Holiday sessions aren't just for cards. Your photos also make lovely gifts:
Framed prints for grandparents
Photo calendars for the new year
Ornaments or keepsake albums
Many families use their fall session for all their holiday gifting.
Tips for a Smooth Session
Dress in layers for chilly evenings.
Bring mittens and hats for little ones.
Pack snacks and a small reward for the kids.
Stay flexible with the weather.
How Early Should You Book?
For holiday card photos, I recommend reaching out as early in the fall as you can. Weekend dates and golden hour slots are always the first to go.
Booking early also leaves room for weather. If a cold snap or early snowfall arrives, we'll have time to move your session without worrying about your card deadline.
If you're hoping for a snowy look, we can plan a winter session instead. Just keep in mind that snow in Calgary can be unpredictable, so it helps to be flexible with your date.
A Holiday Photo Checklist
Book your session early in the fall
Choose a colour palette for the family
Try on outfits ahead of time
Pick your card design or layout
Plan warm layers and snacks
Leave time to choose photos and order cards
Let's Get Your Holiday Photos on the Calendar
Don't wait until December to start thinking about your holiday cards. A little planning now means beautiful photos and a lot less stress later.
Reach out to me here to book your holiday session while dates are still open.