Your Ultimate Holiday Mini Session Prep Guide | Ottawa Photography
The holiday season is one of the most magical times of the year, and it is the perfect opportunity to capture festive family memories with Christmas minis in Ottawa.
Whether this is your first time booking a Christmas mini session in Ottawa or you join me every year, this guide will help you prepare for your session so you can feel relaxed, confident, and photo-ready.
1. Choose Your Outfits Early
Coordinating outfits makes all the difference for your holiday photos.
Stick to neutral or soft seasonal tones such as cream, beige, burgundy, or forest green.
Add texture with cozy knits, scarves, or a touch of velvet to elevate the festive feel.
Avoid large logos or busy patterns, as they can pull attention away from your family.
Lay everything out at least a week before your Ottawa photographer Christmas mini session to avoid last-minute stress.
2. Get Inspired Before Your Session
If you are unsure where to start, I have created a Pinterest board filled with holiday mini session ideas, including outfit combinations, colour palettes, and festive prop suggestions.
Browse the board here: Holiday Mini Session Inspiration on Pinterest
Looking through examples in advance makes it easier to choose outfits and props that complement the holiday set and your personal style.
3. Arrive a Few Minutes Early
Holiday minis are designed to be short and efficient, usually 15–20 minutes long, which is why arriving on time is essential.
Plan to arrive 5–10 minutes early to settle in and prepare kids if needed.
Make sure hair is brushed, shoes are clean, and faces are ready for the camera.
If you are bringing children, a small bag with water, wipes, and a quick snack can be helpful.
Since all sessions take place indoors at a photo studio in Ottawa, you can enjoy a warm, cozy space without worrying about snow or wind.
4. Where Your Holiday Mini Sessions Take Place
This year, Ottawa photography mini sessions will be hosted at three beautiful studios:
MDRN Studio – Bright, modern, and perfect for classic holiday setups
Amarah Studio (new this year!) – Cozy, stylish, and inviting, ideal for a living-room-style feel
Skye Studio – Light-filled and minimal for clean, timeless holiday portraits
Each Ottawa photo studio is carefully selected to provide the best backdrop for your session, with festive touches that keep the focus on your family.
5. Prepare Kids (and Partners) for Success
The best photos happen when everyone feels comfortable and relaxed.
Talk to your kids about the session so they know what to expect.
Allow them to bring a small comfort item, such as a favourite stuffy or ornament.
Remind your partner that the session is short and easy, making it painless for everyone.
During your Ottawa photography mini session, I will guide you with simple prompts and natural posing so your photos feel genuine and stress-free.
6. Add a Personal Touch with Small Props
While each studio is already styled for Christmas mini sessions in Ottawa, bringing a small personal item can make your session unique.
A wrapped gift, a seasonal mug, or a favourite ornament can add a subtle personal touch.
Avoid oversized or distracting props to ensure the focus stays on your family.
7. Relax and Enjoy the Experience
The goal of holiday minis is to capture the candid, joyful moments that define your family during the season. Trust the process, enjoy the experience, and let me handle the rest.
Why Book a Holiday Mini Session in Ottawa?
Booking a Christmas mini session in Ottawa is the perfect way to:
Update your family photos for holiday cards
Capture special memories without a full-length session
Enjoy a beautifully styled setup without any decorating at home
Sessions are quick, fun, and designed to leave you with timeless, festive images to treasure year after year.
Ready to Book Your Ottawa Christmas Mini?
If you are looking for a photo studio in Ottawa and want to capture your family’s holiday joy in a relaxed, professional setting, my Ottawa photographer Christmas mini sessions are the perfect option.