How to Prepare Your Toddler for Santa Photos (and What to Do If They Cry)
Help! My toddler is terrified of Santa. Now what?
Let's get one thing out of the way. If your little one screams the second they spot a big man with a beard and a red suit, you are in very good company.
I've photographed a lot of Santa visits, and some of my favourite photos are the ones where a tiny human is staring at Santa like he has personally ruined their day. Mum and Dad are usually laughing in the background. Those are the ones that end up framed on the wall.
That said, I'd love your visit to feel as smooth as possible. If you're a family in Devonport, Burnie, Ulverstone or anywhere on the North West coast thinking about Santa photos this year, here's what helps.
Chat about Santa before the big day
A few days out, start talking about who Santa is and what's going to happen. Look at a Christmas picture book together or show them a photo of Santa. Try lines like "we're going to say hi to Santa and then play on the sleigh!" Most toddlers cope so much better with a heads up than a surprise.
Time it around naps and snacks
A hungry, tired toddler meeting a stranger in a big red suit is a lot. A fed and rested one has a much better shot at being brave. Pack a snack for afterwards as a little reward for a job well done.
Dress them in something comfy
If clothes are itchy, tight or too hot, your toddler will absolutely let us know. Soft, cosy outfits in colours that work together will always beat the fancy outfit that causes a meltdown.
Don't rush it
This one is big. If your little one needs a minute, we take a minute. Your session is a private, one on one experience with the Santa of your choice, so there's no queue behind you and no pressure. Sometimes a toddler needs to watch from Mum's arms for a bit before they warm up, and that's completely fine.
Let the sleigh set save the day
Every experience includes time on both sets. Santa experiences start in the Santa Lounge, then we move to the sleigh set for family portraits without him. So even if your toddler decides Santa is not for them this year, you still walk away with gorgeous photos of your crew snuggled up with the snow or bubble machine going. No tears required.
Expect the unexpected
I work fast, but I also love a good candid. A wide eyed stare, a shy peek, a wobbly lip, they're all part of the story. In ten years, you'll love them just as much as the perfect smile, probably more.
Quick questions
What age is best for Santa photos? Any age! I photograph babies, toddlers, school kids, teens, adult families, and nans and pops. Toddlers can be the trickiest, but they're also the most entertaining.
What if my child cries or won't go near Santa? It happens all the time, and it makes for a great photo. We take it slow, give them space, and use the sleigh set to get lovely family portraits either way.
How long is a Santa session? Sessions are 10 minutes and include 5 images, with the option to upgrade to more images and print products.
Where are sessions held? At my studio at 78 Reibey Street, Ulverstone, with a Santa Lounge and a sleigh set with snow.
For the full rundown on how it all works then head on over to my Christmas page HERE
Santa sessions start on 8th November, and some days are already sold out, so if you've got your eye on a date, don't leave it too long.
Comments