Every year, someone messages me in mid-December hoping to squeeze in holiday photos for cards that need to go out that week. Sometimes it works. Usually it's stressful for everyone. If you want photos on your cards this year, the trick is working backward from the mailbox.
Work backward from your mailing date
Here's the timeline I recommend:
- Pick your mailing date. Most people aim for the first or second week of December.
- Subtract printing and shipping. Online card printers usually need several business days, plus shipping. Give yourself about two weeks.
- Subtract gallery delivery. My galleries are delivered within 1-2 weeks of your session.
- That's your latest session date. For most families, it lands in early to mid-November.
Which means the best time to book is right now. Weekend golden-hour slots in November go first.
What to wear
- Choose a color palette of two or three tones, then let everyone pick pieces within it. Coordinated looks better than matching.
- Add texture: knits, corduroy, flannel, and denim photograph beautifully in fall light.
- Skip big logos and busy small patterns.
- Dress the youngest kids last and bring a backup outfit.
Indoor or outdoor?
Knoxville in November can be golden and gorgeous or gray and drizzly. Outdoor sessions give you fall color and room for kids to run. If the forecast turns, we'll talk through rescheduling or a backup plan before the day of.
Getting kids to cooperate
Plan the session around naps and snacks, not the other way around. Bring a favorite toy for the youngest. And let me handle the photos. Your job is to be together, not to direct.
What you get
Your images arrive in an online gallery where you can download, share, and order prints. Pick your card favorites, and you're done.
Ready to book?
Holiday dates are limited and fill up fast. Check availability and book your session. Want to see past family work first? Browse the portfolio.
