When Should You Book Family Photos for Christmas Cards? A Lehigh Valley Photographer's Guide

If sending Christmas cards is part of your family's holiday tradition, one of the best things you can do is plan ahead.

Every year, I hear from families in October and November hoping to squeeze in a last-minute session before the holidays. While I always wish I could accommodate everyone, the reality is that my fall calendar fills quickly each year.

If you're hoping for beautiful family portraits for your holiday cards, gifts, or home, here's the timeline I recommend.

August 1: Booking Opens

My Fall Mini Sessions, Outdoor Fall Family Sessions, Outdoor Christmas Sessions, and Studio Christmas Sessions all open for booking on August 1 each year.

While Christmas may still feel months away, this is when many families reserve their preferred session date. Booking early gives you the best selection of dates, locations, and session types before the busiest weekends fill.

It also gives you plenty of time to plan outfits, coordinate schedules, and choose the session experience that's the best fit for your family.

Why Book So Early?

Many families are surprised to learn that Christmas card photos are typically taken before Thanksgiving.

My Outdoor Fall Family Sessions, Outdoor Christmas Sessions and Red Truck Sessions are photographed during October, while Studio Christmas Sessions take place throughout October and November. All sessions are completed before Thanksgiving, giving you plenty of time to receive your professionally edited images, choose your favorites, order holiday cards, and purchase gifts for family and friends.

Planning ahead means you'll have:

• The best selection of available session dates

• Beautiful fall scenery or festive holiday settings

• Plenty of time for professional editing

• Time to choose your favorite images

• Time to order holiday cards, gifts, and wall art before the holiday rush

Instead of feeling rushed as the holidays approach, you'll already have one important item checked off your list and be able to enjoy the season with your family.

Which Holiday Session Is Right for Your Family?

When booking opens on August 1, you'll have several seasonal session options to choose from depending on the style and experience you're looking for.

Fall Mini Sessions

My Fall Mini Sessions are offered on select dates in October at carefully chosen outdoor locations throughout the Lehigh Valley. These shorter sessions are perfect for families looking for updated portraits for holiday cards, gifts, or annual family photos in a beautiful fall setting.

Because mini sessions are scheduled back-to-back, the date, location, and session length are predetermined.

Outdoor Fall Family Sessions

If you'd like a little more flexibility, an Outdoor Fall Family Session may be the perfect fit.

These sessions are scheduled throughout October and allow you to choose from a variety of beautiful outdoor locations throughout the Lehigh Valley. With more time and flexibility, they're ideal for families with young children, those who want a wider variety of images, or anyone who prefers choosing the location that best fits their family's style. Please note, availability is very limited so please reach out right away if you're interested.

Outdoor Christmas Sessions & Red Truck Sessions

Looking for a festive holiday feel without heading into the studio? My Outdoor Christmas Sessions are offered at two beautiful locations in the Lehigh Valley—a charming tree farm and a picturesque covered bridge. My Red Truck Sessions also take place at a local tree farm and give you the perfect nostalgic feel for your holiday card. These sessions combine the beauty of the holiday season with natural outdoor light, creating timeless Christmas portraits that are perfect for holiday cards, gifts, and family keepsakes.

Studio Christmas Sessions

If you love a cozy indoor holiday atmosphere, my Studio Christmas Sessions are available throughout October and November. Featuring multiple beautifully styled Christmas sets, these sessions provide a classic holiday look while keeping you comfortable regardless of the weather.

All holiday sessions are completed before Thanksgiving, giving you plenty of time to receive your images, order Christmas cards, and purchase gifts well before the holiday rush.

Why October and November Are My Busiest Months

October and November are by far my busiest months of the year—and for good reason.

October is filled with Fall Mini Sessions, Outdoor Fall Family Sessions, and the beginning of both my Outdoor Christmas Sessions and Studio Christmas Sessions. As the season continues, November shifts to studio Christmas sessions, with all holiday portraits completed before Thanksgiving.

Many families are planning ahead for Christmas cards, holiday gifts, and updating family portraits before the busy holiday season begins. Since these seasonal sessions are offered for a limited time each year, they naturally book quickly.

To provide every family with the best possible experience, I intentionally limit the number of sessions I accept each season. This allows me to offer flexibility for weather, maintain my turnaround times, and give each client the personalized attention they deserve from planning through gallery delivery.

If you have your heart set on a particular type of session or a specific weekend, booking when registration opens on August 1 gives you the best chance of securing your preferred date.

Don't Forget About Holiday Card Deadlines

Your photo session is just one step in the process.

After your session, your images are professionally edited before your proof gallery is delivered. You'll then have time to choose your favorite portraits, order holiday cards, and purchase gifts such as framed prints, albums, or wall art for family members.

By scheduling your session early in the season, you'll avoid the pressure of last-minute holiday deadlines and have everything ready well before Christmas.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I book family photos for Christmas cards?

Booking opens on August 1 each year, and that's the best time to reserve your session. October and November are my busiest months, and many of the most popular dates are booked early.

Can I use my fall family photos for Christmas cards?

Absolutely! Many families choose colorful fall portraits for their holiday cards. The beautiful autumn scenery creates timeless images that work perfectly for Christmas cards while still celebrating the season.

What's the difference between a Fall Mini Session and a Full Fall Family Session?

Fall Mini Sessions are offered on select dates at predetermined locations and are perfect if you're looking for updated family portraits in a shorter session.

A Full Fall Family Session offers more time, greater flexibility, and the opportunity to choose the location that best fits your family's style.

What's the difference between an Outdoor Christmas Session and a Studio Christmas Session?

Outdoor Christmas Sessions take place at two beautiful Lehigh Valley locations—a tree farm and a covered bridge—and feature natural light with a festive holiday feel.

Studio Christmas Sessions are photographed indoors using beautifully styled holiday sets, making them a great option regardless of the weather while offering a classic Christmas look.

When will I receive my photos?

Your proof gallery is delivered within approximately two weeks of your session, giving you plenty of time to order holiday cards and gifts before Christmas.

What if the weather is bad for my outdoor session?

If rain or unsafe weather is in the forecast, we'll simply reschedule your outdoor session for another available date.

Do Christmas sessions sell out?

Yes. Because I intentionally limit the number of seasonal sessions I photograph each year, many dates fill quickly after booking opens on August 1.

Ready to Book Your Holiday Session?

Whether you're planning ahead for Christmas cards, looking for the perfect family gift, or simply wanting to capture this season of life, now is the time to start planning.

Booking for Fall Mini Sessions, Outdoor Fall Family Sessions, Outdoor Christmas Sessions, and Studio Christmas Sessions opens on August 1 each year. Because these seasonal sessions are available for a limited time and my calendar fills quickly, reserving your session early gives you the best selection of dates and locations.

If you're ready to create beautiful holiday portraits your family will treasure for years to come, I'd love to help you find the session that's the perfect fit.

View this year's seasonal sessions and reserve your spot today!

"What If My Child Won't Cooperate During Our Photo Session?"

One of the biggest worries I hear from parents before a family photo session is:

"I'm afraid my child won't cooperate."

If you've ever had that thought, you're certainly not alone.

The good news? After more than 16 years as a photographer (and 12 years as a middle school teacher before that), I can confidently tell you this:

Kids are kids, and babies are babies. I expect nothing more and nothing less from them.

Children don't need to be perfect for us to create beautiful portraits. In fact, some of my favorite images happen when we simply let children be themselves.

We Prepare for Success Before Your Session Ever Begins

A successful photo session doesn't happen by luck. It happens because we prepare for it together.

Before your session, I send a questionnaire that helps me get to know your child. I want to know what makes them laugh, what songs they love, what games they enjoy, and even who gets their biggest smiles.

Does your little one love bubbles?

Peek-a-boo?

Tickles?

Funny faces?

Being tossed in the air?

We'll make a plan before your session even begins.

I also offer a few simple suggestions that can make a huge difference:

• Avoid scheduling your session during nap time.

• Make sure everyone has eaten beforehand.

• Bring snacks for encouragement and happy tummies.

• If your child has a favorite stuffed animal or toy, feel free to bring it—but keep it tucked away until we need it. Pulling it out too early often means they'll want to hold it in every photograph.

• If Dad, Grandma, Uncle, or another special person always gets the biggest smiles, bring them along!

• For children ages three and under, I always recommend having two adults whenever possible. One adult can stay close so your child feels safe, while the other stands near me to help capture those beautiful smiles.

Preparing ahead of time allows us to focus on having fun instead of feeling stressed.

7 Things I've Learned About Photographing Children After 16+ Years as a Family Photographer

1. Every child warms up differently.

Some children arrive smiling the moment they step out of the car.

Others need 20 minutes before they're ready to engage.

Neither is right or wrong.

I never rush that process. I start by engaging with children and meeting them exactly where they are.

2. Preparation makes all the difference.

There are so many things we can do before your session to set everyone up for success.

A well-rested child who has eaten, arrives without feeling rushed, and gets to play games they already love is much more likely to enjoy the experience.

That's why I spend time getting to know your child before we ever meet.

3. Children feed off their parents' emotions.

This is one of the biggest things I've learned over the years.

If parents arrive stressed, rushed, or worried about getting the "perfect" photo, children usually sense it right away.

But when Mom and Dad are relaxed, smiling, and having fun, their children often do the same.

My advice? Plan ahead so you're not rushing, take a deep breath, and trust me to guide the session.

4. Every child deserves a different approach.

There isn't one formula that works for every child.

Sometimes I begin with a longer lens so I don't crowd a shy child's space.

Other times, I quickly realize they actually respond better when I'm closer, making silly faces and interacting with them.

I may change lenses, adjust my distance, switch games, or ask Mom and Dad to lift them in the air, swing them between their hands, blow raspberries, run in for tickles, or dance together.

I'm constantly watching your child's reactions and adapting my approach throughout the session.

5. I never ask children to say "cheese."

You've probably noticed those forced school-picture smiles.

That's exactly why I don't ask for them.

Instead, I keep sessions moving so children don't become bored.

We joke.

We play.

We talk.

We say silly words.

I even love taking photo or pose suggestions from the kids themselves. This values their ideas and may just be your favorite shot!

The goal isn't a forced smile.

The goal is a genuine one.

6. A camera captures a fraction of a second.

This may be the most important thing I can tell you.

Your child does not need to smile for an entire hour.

They only need to smile for a fraction of a second.

Throughout your session, I'm taking many photographs so your proof gallery is filled with a variety of expressions and moments.

Some of my favorite portraits aren't even smiles. Thoughtful expressions, curious looks, and quiet moments tell your child's story just as beautifully.

Most sessions feel much more chaotic than the final gallery looks.

That's completely normal.

7. My job is to adapt—not expect your child to.

If your child is energetic...

I'll be energetic too.

We'll keep moving, laughing, joking, and talking.

If your child is quieter...

I'll slow things down.

I won't force conversation or expect them to become someone they're not.

Every child deserves to feel comfortable enough to simply be themselves.

You'll Get Both Traditional Portraits and Genuine Connection

As a traditional portrait photographer, beautiful camera-aware family portraits are always my priority.

We'll absolutely work toward those classic images where everyone is looking at the camera.

But we won't stop there.

We'll also capture the in-between moments that often become family favorites—walking hand in hand, cuddling together, playing games, sharing laughs, and simply enjoying one another.

Those moments help children relax naturally, and they tell the story of your family in a beautiful way.

Please Don't Apologize

One thing I hear all the time during sessions is:

"I'm so sorry."

Please don't be.

Kids are kids.

I've seen the tears.

The shyness.

The endless energy.

The toddlers who only want Mom.

The children who refuse to look at the camera.

After 12 years as a teacher and more than 16 years as a photographer, very little surprises me anymore.

When we let go of the idea that we can control exactly how children feel, the pressure disappears.

That's when the real smiles happen.

That's when the genuine moments unfold.

And that's when we create photographs you'll treasure for years to come.

Most Parents Think the Session Was Harder Than the Gallery Looks

One thing I tell parents all the time is this:

Don't judge your session until you've seen your gallery.

Parents often leave thinking,

"I don't know if we got anything."

But here's what they're not seeing...

While you're comforting your child, laughing with them, or simply enjoying time together...

I'm watching.

I'm anticipating.

I'm adjusting.

I'm looking for those split-second smiles, genuine laughs, loving glances, and fleeting moments that happen in between.

My job is to deliver a beautiful gallery, and I take that responsibility seriously.

One Last Thought...

If there's one thing I hope you'll remember, it's this:

Your child doesn't need to perform for me.

They don't have to smile every second, sit perfectly still, or behave in a way that feels unrealistic for their age. They simply need to be themselves.

After more than 16 years photographing families—and 12 years as a middle school teacher before that—I've learned that every child is different. Some are outgoing, some are shy. Some warm up right away, while others need a little more time. My job isn't to change your child or expect them to fit into a certain mold. My job is to meet them where they are, help them feel comfortable, and create portraits that celebrate who they are in this season of life.

Years from now, you won't remember whether your toddler sat still for every photo. You'll remember their little grin, the way they reached for your hand, the giggles during a game of peek-a-boo, and the joy of simply being together.

Those are the moments worth preserving, and it's my privilege to capture them for you.

If you're looking for a relaxed, patient, and experienced Lehigh Valley family photographer, I'd love to help your family create portraits you'll treasure for generations. Whether your little one is full of energy, a little shy, or somewhere in between, we'll work together to create beautiful images that celebrate your family exactly as you are.

Ready to capture true portraits of who your children are? Check out my portrait package options here.

How to Choose the Perfect Location for Your Lehigh Valley Outdoor Photo Session

One of the first questions I hear from clients is:

"Where should we have our photo session?"

If you're feeling overwhelmed by all the beautiful parks, gardens, college campuses, and historic locations throughout the Lehigh Valley, you're not alone. The good news? Choosing the perfect location doesn't have to be stressful.

One of my favorite parts of the planning process is helping families choose the perfect location for their outdoor photo session. After photographing families throughout the Lehigh Valley for more than 16 years, I've come to know which locations work best for different ages, styles, seasons, and personalities. I'll guide you through the options so you can feel confident knowing you've chosen a spot that fits your family perfectly.

The truth is, there isn't one perfect location. Instead, the best location is the one that complements your family, your style, and the memories you want to create together.

I'll Help You Every Step of the Way

Choosing a location is just one part of planning your session, and you won't have to figure it out on your own.

Once you book your session, you'll receive a Booking Confirmation email that includes a link to your personalized Session Guide. Inside, you'll find helpful planning information along with location recommendations specifically chosen for the type of session you've booked.

You'll also have access to my Locations Gallery, where you can browse many of my most popular Lehigh Valley portrait locations. Each gallery showcases real sessions photographed throughout the year, making it easy to compare locations during spring blooms, lush summer greenery, vibrant fall foliage, and even winter.

Many clients find it helpful to explore these galleries before making a decision, but if you're still unsure, I'm always happy to help. Whether you'd like recommendations based on your family's style, clothing, children's ages, or accessibility needs, I'll gladly work with you to select the location that's the perfect fit.

👉 Browse my Locations Gallery here.

How I Help You Choose the Right Location

I don't believe in taking every client to the same place.

Instead, I learn about your family and what you're hoping your portraits will feel like. Some of the questions I ask include:

• How old are the children?

• Will grandparents or extended family be joining us?

• Is anyone in your group limited by uneven ground or longer walks?

• What style of clothing are you planning to wear?

• Are you hoping for a rustic, urban, architectural, garden, or natural setting?

• Is there a particular season or scenery you're drawn to?

These answers help me recommend locations that not only look beautiful but also make your session enjoyable and stress-free.

Matching Your Family's Style to the Right Location

One of the things I love most about photographing throughout the Lehigh Valley is the incredible variety of beautiful locations available.

Rustic Charm

If you love warm textures, historic buildings, and timeless character, I often recommend:

• Burnside Plantation

• Kreidersville Covered Bridge

• Colonial District of Downtown Bethlehem

Urban & Industrial

If you're drawn to brick streets, steel, and city-inspired backdrops:

• SteelStacks

• Downtown Easton

• Jim Thorpe

Classic Architecture

Dressier clothing pairs beautifully with elegant architecture.

Some favorites include:

• Lehigh University

• Lafayette College

• Moravian University

Parks & Gardens

If you envision lush greenery and colorful gardens:

• Allentown Rose Garden

• Lockridge Park

Open Fields & Nature

For a relaxed, natural feel with tall grasses and open landscapes:

• Ballas Park

• Trexler Nature Preserve

My Favorite Locations by Session Type

Not every location works equally well for every family.

Families with Young Children

With younger children, I usually recommend locations where parking is close by and we can create lots of variety without walking long distances.

Favorites include:

• Burnside Plantation

• Lehigh University

• Allentown Rose Garden

Families with Older Children

Older children typically enjoy exploring a little more, giving us additional variety throughout the session.

Some favorites are:

• Kreidersville Covered Bridge

• Colonial District of Downtown Bethlehem

• Downtown Easton

• Jim Thorpe

• Lockridge Park

• Lehigh University

• Lafayette College

  
  

Seniors & Professional Headshots

For seniors and headshots, I love locations that provide several different looks in one session.

Some of my favorites include:

• Lehigh University

• Lafayette College

• Lockridge Park

• Trexler Nature Preserve

• Jim Thorpe

• Downtown Bethlehem

• SteelStacks

Maternity & Engagement Sessions

These sessions often photograph beautifully at architectural locations, open fields, gardens, or places that have personal meaning to you as a couple. Together, we'll find the location that best matches your vision.

Locations I Love Year Round

Some locations are beautiful no matter what time of year you visit. They offer a wonderful mix of architecture, nature, and variety, making them excellent choices in every season.

My three favorite year-round locations are:

Lockridge Park

One of the most versatile locations in the Lehigh Valley, Lockridge Park offers beautiful stone ruins, open grassy areas, mature trees, and seasonal blooms. Whether you're visiting during the bluebell bloom in the spring, surrounded by lush greenery in the summer, enjoying colorful fall foliage, or photographing against the timeless stonework in winter, it's a location that never disappoints.

Burnside Plantation

Burnside Plantation is one of my favorite choices for families with young children thanks to its close parking, smaller walking area, and beautiful rustic charm. The historic buildings, barns, fences, flower and vegetable gardens, open spaces, and mature trees create a timeless backdrop that works beautifully throughout the year.

Lehigh University

Lehigh University offers incredible variety in every season. From elegant stone architecture and beautiful wood doors to tree-lined paths with classic light poles, stone steps, fountains, and stone walls, it's a location that pairs beautifully with everything from dressy family portraits and seniors to maternity sessions and headshots. Even during the winter months, the architecture creates stunning, timeless images.

My Favorite Locations Throughout the Seasons

Every season offers something beautiful, and one of the benefits of photographing throughout the Lehigh Valley for more than 16 years is knowing when each location is at its best.

Spring

Spring is one of my favorite times of year. Fresh greenery and blooming trees create beautiful, soft backdrops for portraits.

Some of my favorite spring locations include:

• Lockridge Park for the stunning bluebells.

• Bethlehem Public Library for the beautiful magnolia trees.

• Allentown Rose Garden for the flowering cherry trees.

• Graver Arboretum for vibrant purple rhododendrons.

Summer

Summer offers lush greenery along with colorful flowers that create timeless portraits.

Some of my favorite summer locations include:

• Ballas Park for beautiful wildflower fields.

• Fox Summit Farm for sunflower sessions.

• St. Luke's Hospital Anderson Campus for gorgeous sunflower fields in late July and early August.

Fall

Fall color is spectacular throughout the Lehigh Valley, but some of my favorite locations include:

• Lehigh University

• Walnutport Canal

• Albert Ponds Reserve

• Archibald Johnston Conservation Area

• Lockridge Park

Winter

Without colorful flowers and leaves, beautiful architecture becomes the star of the session.

I often recommend:

• Lehigh University

• Downtown Bethlehem

• Lafayette College

• Lockridge Park

• Christmas Tree Farm

The Details You May Not Think About (But I Do)

After photographing families throughout the Lehigh Valley for more than 16 years, I've learned that what makes a location photograph beautifully isn't always obvious.

When recommending a location, I'm thinking about much more than just the scenery.

I'm considering:

• The direction the evening light falls.

• Clean backgrounds without distractions.

• Variety within one location, including gardens, architecture, stone walls, open spaces, and different textures.

• Safe places for young children to explore.

• Parking and walking distance.

• Accessibility for grandparents or anyone with mobility concerns.

• How your clothing will complement the surroundings.

• Whether permits or photography fees are required.

If you're looking for a location where we can park nearby and stay within a smaller area during your session, I often recommend Burnside Plantation, Kreidersville Covered Bridge, or Allentown Rose Garden.

Once we've selected your location, I may even adjust your session time by up to an hour to ensure we're photographing during the very best light for that particular date and location.

If a location requires a photography permit or additional fee, I'll let you know ahead of time. Any applicable permit information is also listed on my website.

Have a Special Place in Mind?

While I have many favorite locations throughout the Lehigh Valley, some of my favorite sessions have taken place somewhere completely unique.

If your family has a favorite park, a family farm, your own backyard, a neighborhood you love walking through, or another location that holds special meaning, I'd love to hear about it.

I'm always happy to scout a new location before your session to make sure it photographs beautifully while preserving the meaningful connection it has for your family.

Some of the most meaningful portraits aren't taken at a popular park. They're captured in places that already tell part of your family's story.

There Isn't One Perfect Location

After photographing families throughout the Lehigh Valley for more than 16 years, here's what I've learned.

There is no such thing as the perfect location.

What's far more important is choosing a place that complements your family's personality, works well with the outfits you've chosen, and provides the perfect setting to capture this season of your lives.

Some families enjoy choosing a new location every year and creating new memories together.

Others return to the same favorite location year after year.

The background may be similar, but your family is always changing. Children grow taller. Relationships deepen. New family members arrive.

That's what makes every session unique.

Years from now, you probably won't remember every flower that was blooming or every stone wall behind you.

You'll remember the laughter, the hugs, the little hands holding yours, and the joy of simply being together.

Whether we're photographing your family in a location you've loved for years or somewhere brand new, the scenery simply sets the stage.

Your family is always the heart of the photograph.

Those are the memories worth preserving.

Let's Find a Location for Your Session Together

Whether you already have a favorite location in mind or have absolutely no idea where you'd like your session to take place, I'm here to help.

From your Booking Confirmation and Session Guide to my Location Gallery and personal recommendations, I'll guide you through every step of the planning process so choosing a location feels easy and enjoyable.

Together, we'll choose a location that reflects your family's personality, complements your wardrobe, and creates timeless portraits you'll treasure for years to come.

If you're ready to start planning your outdoor photo session, I'd love to help you find the perfect location to tell your family's story.

I can't wait to create something beautiful with you!