Holiday Photos Come With a Lot of “Rules”… or Do They?
Every holiday season, the same advice circulates—what you should wear, how everyone must behave, and what holiday photos are supposed to look like.
The truth? Many of these ideas are outdated, unnecessary, and often prevent people from enjoying the experience.
Let’s clear the noise and break down the most common holiday photo myths you can safely ignore.
Myth One: Everyone Has to Match Perfectly
Matching outfits used to be the gold standard for holiday photos. Identical sweaters, identical colors, identical vibes, but in reality, coordinating beats matching every time.
A thoughtful color palette allows personality to shine while still keeping the images visually cohesive. Layers, textures, and subtle variations create depth and interest that matching outfits simply can’t.
Myth Two: Kids and Pets Must Be Perfectly Behaved
Holiday sessions rarely go according to plan—and that’s a good thing.
Laughter, movement, and even mild chaos bring authenticity to photos. Some of the most loved images come from moments in between poses: a child mid-giggle or a dog stealing an ornament.
We much prefer personality over perfection. These are your stories afterall.
Myth Three: Holiday Photos Have to Be Posed
Stiff poses can make photos feel forced and unnatural.
Candid moments—walking, interacting, laughing—often produce the most emotional and memorable images. Guided movement gives families space to relax, resulting in photos that feel warm and genuine.
And natural connection always photographs better than forced smiles, especially with kids and pets.
Myth Four: Bad Weather Ruins Holiday Photos
Rain, snow, wind, or freezing temperatures don’t have to cancel your holiday portraits. When sessions take place in a professional studio, the weather outside becomes completely irrelevant.
A studio setting offers consistent lighting, controlled temperatures, and a calm environment—no coats, no soggy shoes, and no rushing between shots. Kids stay comfortable, pets stay relaxed, and everyone can focus on connection instead of conditions.
Holiday photos don’t need perfect weather. They need a space where your family can show up comfortably and be themselves.
Myth Five: You Need to Be “Photo Ready” to Book a Session
Waiting for the “perfect time” often means missing out altogether.
Holiday photos are about documenting life as it is right now. The messiness, the growth, the laughter—these moments are worth preserving. You don’t need perfect hair, perfect weight, or perfect circumstances.
You just need to show up.
What Actually Makes Holiday Photos Meaningful
Memorable holiday portraits are built on three things:
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genuine connection
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relaxed energy
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moments that feel real
When those elements come together, the result is timeless imagery that feels personal and full of heart.
Holiday photos don’t need rigid rules or unrealistic expectations. Let go of the myths, embrace the moment, and allow your photos to reflect real life. Years from now, those honest, imperfect moments will be the ones that matter most.
Ready to schedule a session? Let’s chat about how we can make meaningful memories for you and your loved ones.
