Aug 28 2026 | By: IJ Photo
It's official: my 2026 Christmas mini sessions are now open. If the last few years are any guide, they won't stay open for long. These little sessions are one of my favorite traditions — second only to gingerbread houses — and they're the easiest, most joyful way to check "holiday photos" off your list before the season gets busy. Here's everything you need to know, plus a reason to book today rather than later.
All sessions are on Saturdays, in my Everett studio:
That's only four days on the calendar, and the earliest ones always go first. If you want your images in hand in time to order and mail holiday cards, an earlier session is the safe choice. Every year I hear from a few families in mid-December hoping to squeeze in, and by then the calendar is usually full. Don't let that be you!
Every year I design brand-new holiday sets, and this year's are some of my favorites yet. You'll choose your favorite two from seven curated looks, ranging from modern to nostalgic. Because it's all indoors in my Everett studio, we never have to worry about Pacific Northwest rain, wind, or an early sunset — just warm light, festive backdrops, and happy faces. Whether it's your kids, the whole family, the grandparents, or the family dog, these sets are made to make everyone look and feel their best. (And yes, well-behaved pets are always welcome.)
A mini session is exactly what it sounds like: a short, focused, 30-minute session designed to capture a handful of gorgeous holiday images without the time or investment of a full sitting. You arrive, we have fun, select your photos the same day, and you walk away knowing you've started your holiday season off right!
🎁 The Gift Stack — perch on oversized presents against elegant green wainscoting
🌿 Garland & Glow — soft draped backdrop layered with fresh holiday garland
🔥 The Classic Hearth — the white fireplace you all keep requesting, tree and all
✨ Golden & Timeless — a warm neutral for portraits without the holiday theme
🛏️ Christmas Morning — cozy pajama magic on the styled Christmas bed
🚪 The Farmhouse — rustic barn doors framed by a grove of Christmas trees
❄️ Let it snow! - Winter theme waiting for a snowball fight, complete with falling snow!
Every package includes a 30-minute session, your choice of two studio sets, one outfit change, and same-day image viewing and ordering. You only pay for what you want — add extra digital files for $25 each, with no minimum purchase.
1️⃣ Mini Session + 3 Digital Files — $350
2️⃣ Mini Session + 8 Digital Files — $550
3️⃣ Mini Session + 16 Digital Files — $750
Each package lists the total number of digital files included — no minimums, no surprises. You'll get your final files within 3–5 business days, and prints and cards can be ordered right through your gallery.
Those bonus digitals are perfect for holiday cards, sharing with family near and far, and the quick prints and gifts that always come up this time of year. This offer ends September 15, so it rewards the families who plan ahead. Reserve your spot now and the free files are yours. ($75 value!)
Minis are the most budget-friendly way to work with me, so they're popular with returning families and first-timers alike. The all-indoor studio setup means your session happens rain or shine, in comfort, with professional lighting no camera phone can match. And with 25+ years behind the camera, I know how to get genuine smiles from even the wiggliest toddler in a short window.
There's something about knocking out your holiday photos early that makes the whole season feel calmer. Your cards get mailed on time, grandparents get framed prints they'll treasure, and you get to actually enjoy December instead of scrambling for a last-minute photo. A Christmas mini is a small, simple thing that pays off all season long — and a lovely way to kick off the holidays.
Head to my Christmas mini booking page to see this year's dates and reserve your slot — and remember, booking by September 15 gets you those 3 free digital files.
However you celebrate, let's capture it before the season slips by. These always sell out, so the best time to book is right now.