Why I Don’t Offer Christmas Mini Sessions (And It’s Not Because I’m a Grinch)

Every year, as the air turns chilly and decorations go up, I’m asked the same question: “Are you doing Christmas mini sessions this year?” The short answer is no. But don’t worry—I’m not the Grinch! I don’t even say “bah humbug” (well, not very often anyway). While I absolutely adore photographing children and families, mini sessions have just never been my cup of mulled cider. Let me explain why.

Christmas

For those who know my style, you know I’m all about taking my time and getting to know my little clients. Children need that warm-up period, whether they’re adjusting to the new surroundings, the soft lights, or getting to know me—the friendly stranger with the big camera asking them for big smiles. I’ve never rushed a session, because every child deserves the time to get comfortable and let their true personality shine.

With Christmas mini sessions, to make them profitable, photographers usually need to pack multiple clients into a single day. We’re talking back-to-back sessions, sometimes only 15 or 20 minutes each! While this works brilliantly for some photographers (and hats off to them!), I’d rather have the freedom to follow the little ones’ pace. We’ve all been there—a child who’s tired, a little wary of the camera, or just feeling a bit out of sorts. Rushing them doesn’t bring out the best, and I want the very best for every family I photograph.

example Before anyone thinks I’m insulting my fellow photographers let me be clear: I have so much respect for photographers who do offer Christmas mini sessions, and I always recommend them to anyone who contacts me with a Christmas mini enquiry. These photographers do an incredible job. It takes real skill to pull off back-to-back sessions with that kind of energy and creativity, and the results are magical! It’s just that, for me, taking time to let each little personality shine through, is what feels right. That and perhaps the fact that I don't have the energy I had when I started my studio nearly two decades ago!

Now, let’s set the record straight: I’m not completely anti-festive. I love including a bit of seasonal cheer in my sessions, especially around Christmas. So, while I don’t offer “Christmas minis,” I’m always happy to incorporate some festive touches for families who book a session with me towards the end of the year. These can range from Santa hats on a newborn to Christmas-themed composites in the gallery. Just let me know if you’d like a bit of Christmas magic, and we’ll make it happen—no bah humbugs here!

10 Another request I get quite often is to take school photographs. I completely understand the appeal, but just like Christmas minis, school photography involves working with little ones in short time slots. Picture a tired child, ushered into a new environment, surrounded by lights and a lot of action—it's enough to make even the bravest kid look a bit uncertain! I’ve always preferred the flexibility to let children relax and settle in, rather than squeezing them into a brief session. That’s why I’ve never put a strict time limit on any of my sessions. I’d rather adapt to each child’s needs to ensure I capture those moments that bring mum and dad joy. Oh and in case you are wondering, yes, I have done my fair share of portraits of children in their school uniforms if the official school photo didn't quite go to plan.

So, for anyone booking a session with me closer to Christmas—rest assured, I’m more than willing to include a festive photo or two in your gallery! If you’d like a magical Christmas composite added, just let me know. After all, I may not offer Christmas minis, but I’m far from a Christmas Scrooge.

In short, I’ve chosen a path that lets me create those special, relaxed memories for each family—without rushing the magic. So, whether you book a session in December or July, you can count on me to take my time, make it fun, and deliver photos that show your little one at their very best.

Santa Thanks for reading!

Ellie J Photography

Newborn and Baby Photographer Coventry