Getting the perfect Christmas photo with your child and Santa Clause can either be a great success or a total disaster. Our resident photographer offers a few tips to getting the perfect picture of your special little one with the Big guy himself!
1) Prepare your kids days in advance! Show them pictures of other kids with Santa and talk about how good he is with kids. It can be a scary experience for little ones if they have not seen him before.
2) Have patience. This is a must with kids. A child that is not ready or comfortable to get close to this big guy is probably not ready to be sitting on his lap or in close proximity. If you are taking your child to the mall or somewhere where you have a clear view of Santa, walk around him, show your child how the other kids are doing it and let him/her get comfortable.
3) Bravery goes a long way! Getting some ice cream or going to the toy store for a nice treat is always a great idea.
4) Expect the unexpected. Some kids just do great while others are just too nervous to talk to the big guy or to smile for the camera. Kids will be kids, but do not worry…there is always next year.
Very great advice! Especially ‘be patient’! 🙂
The photos I have of my kids are sad. They were crying. I’m sure that’s common with younger children. I sure hope they pay Santa well.
Last year we didn’t get a photo with Santa because my son was scared to talk to him. This year he tells me that he won’t be scared. We will see.
Even the best santa moments can turn into a disaster with the “blink” of an eye. I have learned whatever is meant to be will be, they are moments in their life I wont have again:)
Great tips! I took both my boys to see Santa this year and my 6 year old (who used to be terrified of him) did amazing and my 2 year old just stood there and laughed at the big guy but would NOT go anywhere near him.
Oh we had one of those moments this year! Still a memorable picture 🙂
Some of my favorite photos are the ones where my kids were crying! Luckily we are out of the phase. These are wonderful tips!
All good advice, but I won’t lie about being entertained by Santa pictures that didn’t go as planned. 🙂
Patience truly is key. We had the hardest time getting our toddlers to sit on Santa’s lap, and never got a great photo of them.
Great tips! My kids have been terrified of Santa in the past.
Great tips for parents. Thanks for sharing!
Patience is the most needed in my opinion. But I completely agree with ice cream afterwards.
If the child is very afraid you can always rent a suit and let them see that it’s dad, or whoever and take your own photo.