Holiday Photos with Megan, Harper, and Grace
Capturing Holiday Magic: A Heartwarming Photo Session with the Girls
The holiday season is a time filled with warmth, joy, and moments we cherish with those we love. It's also the perfect occasion to capture memories that will last a lifetime. Recently, I had the pleasure of working with some wonderful clients during a fun, festive holiday photo session in Tumalo Valley, and I’m still smiling after my time with these three.
Setting the Stage: The Holiday Vibe
When planning a holiday photo session, creating the right atmosphere is key. I chose one of my favorite Central Oregon locations for a holiday photo session, Tumalo Vallery and Skyliners Lodge. The cozy backdrop of the lodge combined with the fresh dusting of snow and gorgeous views of the evergreens in the valley could not have been more perfect for this session. This family photo session was all Harper’s idea - she is the oldest of the two girls - and she and her sister, Grace, were SO excited to kick off the holiday season with their mom, Megan. Who says teens can’t be good sports for family photos? In this case, the teens led the way! I love to see it :)
Styling for the Season
For many clients, a family holiday photo session is the perfect time to bring out coordinated outfits that add a touch of seasonal charm. These three decided to stick to their everyday jeans wardrobe, and paired that denim with cozy, cream sweaters and fleece. I always recommend that my clients wear something that is comfortable and authentic to them - after all, the most beautiful photos capture real emotions, not just picture-perfect outfits.
I also love how accessories, like scarves, mittens, and knitted hats, can add an extra layer of personality and warmth to holiday photos. For this session, Megan decided to bring fun Santa hats! These made everyone feel that much more festive and in the holiday spirit and definitely enhanced the overall holiday theme.
Capturing the Magic: Candid Moments
What truly makes a holiday photo session special isn’t just the location or styling, though — it’s the genuine connection between the people in the photos. The laughter, the hugs, the quiet moments of togetherness are what make these images truly unforgettable.
One of my favorite moments during this particular session was when we were about to make our way down to the creek for our final series of shots. They girls were being silly and trying out different walks while holding hands. The laughter and smiles that came through were nothing but genuine and these images ended up being the favorites of the photo session. Megan loved that she got to share this special moment of sweet intimacy with her girls, something that is fleeting as they grow into young adults.
During these types of sessions, I try to create an atmosphere that’s relaxed and fun. I encourage clients to interact naturally with one another — whether it’s holding hands, sharing a laugh, or just enjoying the quiet of the moment. These candid shots often become the favorites because they capture emotions that transcend time, creating memories that clients will treasure forever.
The Holiday Spirit: Creating Lasting Memories
Holiday photo sessions are not just about taking pictures; they’re about creating memories. I often remind clients that these photos will be passed down for generations. The images from a holiday session will hang on their walls and become part of their family's story. In 20 years, they’ll look back at these photos and remember the joy, the laughter, and the love that filled their home during the holiday season.
After the session, the excitement continues as we work together to choose prints, albums, or digital collections. Whether it's a framed portrait for the mantelpiece or a holiday card to send to friends and family, the finished products help preserve the magic of the season for years to come.
Wrapping Up
Holiday photo sessions are always a highlight of my year. They offer the chance to connect with families, capture their love and joy, and create timeless images that will hold a special place in their hearts for years to come. As we head into this festive season, I encourage you to think about how you can document your own family's moments — whether it's through a professional session or simply capturing candid moments with your phone. No matter how you choose to preserve the holiday magic, the most important thing is to enjoy the time spent with those who matter most.
If you’re looking for a way to celebrate the season and create lasting memories, I’d love to help you create your own holiday magic through a photo session. The holiday season is fleeting, but the memories we capture together will last forever. Let’s make some magic!
