I feel you, Santa—utterly spent after a season of endless cheer. As a photographer during the holidays, I feel the same way after weeks of wrangling props, kids, and pets to capture the magic of the season. This picture says it all! Now that the Christmas rush has come and gone, I finally have a moment to catch my breath and reflect on the whirlwind season that was. At Courtney Lyn Studios, the holiday season transformed my cozy studio into a hub of laughter, festive chaos, and unforgettable moments. From wrangling toddlers in matching pajamas to convincing pets to sit still in their own ridiculous outfits, it was a merry madness that I absolutely loved.
Behind the Lens: The Holiday Hustle
For photographers, the weeks leading up to Christmas are our version of crunch time. Families want to capture the magic of the season, and for many, this means booking a session weeks in advance. But let’s be honest – even with the best planning, the reality of photographing Christmas photos is rarely picture-perfect.
Parents arrived with carefully coordinated outfits (and backup outfits, just in case), children bounced between excitement and sugar highs, and pets…well, let’s just say they often stole the show. Amidst all this, my job was to capture the smiles, love, and genuine connection that make each family unique.
The Art of Organized Chaos
Christmas photo sessions are unpredictable, and that’s what makes them so special. One minute, I’m adjusting the lighting for a serene family portrait, and the next, I’m singing “Baby Shark” at the top of my lungs to keep a toddler’s attention. Flexibility and quick thinking are key – whether it’s dealing with a shy child who needed some extra encouragement or a mischievous pet knocking over props.
At Courtney Lyn Studios, I embraced the chaos. Our studio was designed to make families feel at home, complete with festive backdrops, cozy props, and plenty of holiday cheer. I aimed to create a relaxed and fun environment where families could let their personalities shine.
The Busy Season for Photographers
The holiday season is a beautiful, bustling time for photographers. My calendar was packed with sessions, editing deadlines, and the race to deliver photos in time for Christmas cards and gifts. It was a delicate balance of creativity and efficiency, ensuring every family’s vision came to life while meeting tight timelines.
Late nights became the norm as I poured over edits, perfecting each image to reflect the joy and warmth of the season. It was a labor of love, fueled by the knowledge that these photos would become cherished memories for years to come.
Why We Love It
Despite the craziness, photographing Christmas sessions is one of the most rewarding parts of my job. Seeing the excitement on kids’ faces, the love between family members, and the magic of the season through my lens reminds me why I started this business. There’s something incredibly special about being part of a family’s holiday traditions.
So, to all the families who trusted me to capture your Christmas memories, thank you. You made the hustle and bustle of the season so worth it. And to my fellow photographers who also navigated the holiday rush: we did it. We created magic one photo at a time.
Looking Ahead
As I pack away the holiday props and reflect on the season, I’m already looking forward to what’s next. The quiet after the storm is a time to recharge, get inspired, and prepare for the year ahead.
If you’re thinking about booking a session for a special occasion or just to capture everyday moments, I’d love to help you create memories that will last a lifetime. Let’s make this year’s moments just as magical.
I hope everyone is having a joyful start to the new year!
– Courtney
