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Why Holiday Portraits Always End Up Being My Favourite Sessions

December 15, 2025

Family holiday photo at Chickadee Tree Farm in Cambridge, Ontario featuring a couple holding their baby among the Christmas trees — captured by Portraits by Kendra, Kitchener-Waterloo family photographer.

Kitchener-Waterloo & Cambridge Family Photographer

There’s just something magical about holiday photos.

Maybe it’s the cozy layers, the twinkle lights, or the way families show up a little more present than usual. As a Kitchener-Waterloo and Cambridge family photographer, holiday mini sessions are truly some of my favourites every single year — and even in the busiest season, the magic never wears off.

Holiday portraits aren’t just about getting a great photo for your holiday card. They’re about capturing this version of your family, right now, in the middle of a season that always seems to move too fast.

From tree farm holiday photos in Cambridge, Ontario to cozy, magazine-worthy studio sessions, these photos are about connection, comfort, and creating memories that feel just as good as they look — right down to the fun little details like festive props and a special holiday cookie for every family.

Holiday Photos at Chickadee Tree Farm

Hallmark-Movie Vibes, Guaranteed

If you’ve ever watched a holiday movie and thought, “I want my photos to feel like that,” this is it.

My holiday tree farm sessions at Chickadee Tree Farm in Cambridge are relaxed, festive, and full of movement. Kids can explore, parents can breathe, and nobody is expected to stand still and smile the entire time. We wander through the trees, pull wagons, laugh a lot, and let real moments unfold.

Each session includes a few thoughtful touches to make the experience extra fun:

  • Festive props woven naturally into the session
  • A special holiday cookie kids (and parents!) adore
  • Plenty of space for movement, play, and candid moments

Some of my favourite images happen when no one is trying too hard — little ones pulling wagons, parents laughing when things go delightfully off-script, and those quiet in-between moments that end up meaning the most. That’s always the goal.

These sessions are perfect for families looking for stress-free holiday photos in Cambridge and the Kitchener-Waterloo area.

Holiday Studio Sessions

Cozy, Stylish, and So Easy

If you love a cozy, elevated look — and the idea of not worrying about the weather — studio holiday sessions might be the perfect fit.

These take place in a beautifully curated studio space in Cambridge, Ontario. The holiday sets are styled by the studio team and feel warm, modern, and polished … the kind of space that looks like you just stepped onto the cover of a trendy home magazine.

The best part? The setting is already done for you. You show up, I’ll guide you through everything else. I focus on capturing natural connection and relaxed moments so your photos feel genuine, not stiff or overly posed.

Studio holiday minis are a great option for families with young kids, anyone wanting a weather-proof session, or those who love a clean, timeless holiday aesthetic.

What to Wear for Your Holiday Photo Session

Let’s Keep This Easy

If you’re wondering what to wear, you’re not alone — it’s one of the most common questions I get. The good news: it doesn’t have to be stressful.

The families you see throughout this post are great examples of what photographs beautifully.

For Holiday Studio Sessions

Because the studio sets are clean, modern, and editorial in style, simple outfits always shine.

Try:

  • Soft neutrals like cream, beige, soft white, and light grey
  • Cozy knits, ribbed sweaters, and simple dresses
  • Small pops of holiday colour (a bow, greenery, a hint of red)

Skip:

  • Loud logos or bold graphics
  • Busy patterns
  • Anything fussy or uncomfortable

The goal is timeless, cozy, and natural — like you just stepped out of a magazine, but still feel like yourselves.

For Tree Farm Holiday Sessions

Outdoor sessions are perfect for layers, texture, and a little more seasonal colour.

What works really well:

  • Reds, forest green, cream, camel, and subtle plaid
  • Sweaters, cardigans, coats, tights, scarves
  • Comfortable shoes so kids can move, explore and play
  • Coordinated colours rather than matching outfits

A helpful tip: comfort always comes first. When kids feel good, the photos feel relaxed and natural — and those are always the best moments.

Quick Holiday Photo Outfit Checklist

Before you leave the house, do a quick check:

  • Everyone fits within a similar colour palette
  • Outfits feel comfortable (especially for kids)
  • Layers are weather-appropriate for tree farm sessions
  • Shoes work for walking, playing, or studio floors
  • No loud logos or distracting graphics

If you can say “yes” to those, you’re ready.

And if you’re still unsure, don’t stress. I’m always happy to chat through outfit ideas ahead of time and I’ll guide you during the session so everything looks and feels natural. You don’t need perfection — show up, be yourselves, and let me take care of the rest.

Why Families Come Back Every Year

For so many families, holiday photos become a yearly tradition.

Sessions are short, relaxed, and intentionally designed to feel easy. No pressure. No perfection required. Just real moments, captured beautifully, in a season that’s already busy.

They’re perfect for holiday cards, gifts for grandparents, and filling your home with memories that make you smile long after the season is over.

Want First Dibs on Next Year’s Holiday Sessions?

Holiday sessions book up quickly every year, and VIP subscribers always get first access before dates open to the public.

If you want early booking, exclusive perks, and all the festive details sent straight to your inbox, make sure you’re on my VIP list. It’s the easiest way to secure your spot for next year’s holiday mini sessions in Cambridge and the Kitchener-Waterloo area.

The magic starts there.

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