Christmas mini sessions in Austin: what to expect

Every December I tell myself I'll get nice Christmas photos of my own kids, and every year it gets pushed to "next weekend." So I understand why Christmas mini sessions in Austin are so popular. They're short, everything is set up for you, and you leave with photos for the card.

Here's how mine work, so you know exactly what you're booking.

Where the Christmas minis are

It's an outdoor Christmas set at 4401 Sam Bass Rd in Round Rock, in north Austin, close to Cedar Park, Georgetown and Pflugerville. There's a decorated tree, a white sofa and a few festive props, all ready before you get there. You don't have to bring anything except your family.

What you get

The session is 30 minutes and $299. You get 15 edited, high-resolution photos in a private online gallery, and you can order prints and Christmas cards right from that gallery. After you book, I'll send you some outfit and color ideas so everyone looks good together.

Thirty minutes sounds short, but it's plenty. We'll get the classic one with everyone looking at the camera first, since that's usually the card photo. Then I'll get you moving and laughing and snuggling on the couch, which is where the photos you'll actually frame come from.

And yes, bring the toddler who's having a bad day. I have four kids, I've seen every mood there is.

What to wear

Cozy colors look best with the tree. Cream, deep green, burgundy, a soft plaid. Skip logos and anything neon. It can also be warm here in December, so pick layers you can take off. I wrote more about this in my what to wear post.

When to book

Early December weekends go first, because everyone wants their photos back in time to order cards. Galleries are usually ready in one to two weeks, so the earlier you come, the less stressful the card part is.

Your kids will never be this little at Christmas again. If you'd like a spot, you can book your mini session here.