Family Holiday Photos in Kansas City: When to Book So Your Cards Go Out on Time
Updated: 5 days ago
Every December, I get the same sweet, slightly panicked message: "Is it too late to get photos for our Christmas cards?" Sometimes I can squeeze you in! But the families who have the most relaxed holiday season are the ones who plan a little earlier than feels necessary.
Here's how to time your family holiday photos so your cards land in mailboxes before the holidays, not after.
Work backward from your mailbox
Most families want their cards in the mail by mid-December. Here's what that looks like when you work backward:
Early December: order your cards. Print shops get slammed this time of year, so a little cushion goes a long way.
About a week after your session: your gallery arrives. My turnaround is about 5–7 days, so you won't be waiting long.
Late October to mid-November: have your session. This is the sweet spot.
Booking in October gives you the most dates to choose from and takes one big thing off your plate before the holidays get busy.
Outdoor or studio?
If you love fall color, outdoor sessions around Kansas City usually look their best through late October or early November, before the leaves drop. After that, Kansas weather gets unpredictable.
That's where my Overland Park studio shines. No wind, no cold noses, no rescheduling because of rain, and no little ones melting down because they're freezing. Studio sessions are also perfect for a cozy, classic holiday look.
Little ones? Don't miss Santa!
If your kids are little and you want something quick and festive, Santa is coming back to the studio November 14th and 15th for mini sessions at $200.
Our Santa is the real deal: a real white beard, rosy cheeks, a twinkle in his eye, and the classic red suit straight out of a vintage Christmas card. He's warm, patient, and wonderful with babies and nervous toddlers. Honestly? The kids don't think he looks like Santa. They're completely convinced he is Santa, and watching their faces light up is one of my favorite parts of the whole year.
The timing is perfect for holiday cards, but spots go fast every year. See Santa Mini Session details
Tips for card-ready photos
Ask for both horizontal and vertical images. Card templates come in both, and having options makes ordering so much easier.
Leave a little breathing room. A few images with space around your family give the card design room for your greeting.
Get the "everyone's looking" shot, then let loose. I always get the classic first. The giggly, real moments that come after are often the ones families end up loving most.
Coordinate, don't match. Pick two or three colors and let everyone mix within them. (My holiday "what to wear" guide is coming soon!)
Let's get you on the calendar
Holiday photos shouldn't be one more thing on your December to-do list. Book now, and when the season gets busy, your cards will already be done.
Browse recent sessions on my family photography page to start planning your look.
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