Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Book Your Holiday Family Photos

That Gut Feeling When You See Christmas Decorations… in October

Yesterday, I walked into Costco just to get my dog’s prescription.

…and there it was. Christmas. Full-blown, sparkling, oversized CHRISTMAS. Trees, lights, glitter everywhere. My heart kind of leapt because honestly, I do love it. The glow of the lights, the flood of happy family photos arriving in the mail, cuddling under a blanket by the tree. It’s magical.

But I’ll admit – I also felt a little wave of panic wash over me.

Christmas is coming. Whether I’m ready or not. And if you’re like many of the beautiful families I get to photograph every year, you might not be ready either.

The Stress of “Can You Fit Me In?”

Let me gently say it – I love all my clients deeply. But every fall, my inbox fills with sweet, heartfelt messages like:

“Any chance you can squeeze us in for a quick shoot?” “We forgot to book earlier… do you have any space left?” “We just realized we need Christmas card photos!”

And every year, I do my absolute best to say yes. But there comes a point where I can’t, and having to turn someone away truly hurts. I never want anyone to feel rushed, disappointed, or stressed.

So if I could share one loving piece of advice, it would be this:

Book your holiday photo session early. You’ll thank yourself later.

Why Booking Early Makes All the Difference

1. You Avoid the Rainy Season Rush

Let’s be real – Southern California does have unpredictable weather in November and December, even if the sun shines most of the year. When you book your session late in the season, you risk running into multiple rain reschedules.

Earlier bookings mean:

• Better weather windows
• More date flexibility
• Golden light without gloomy skies

2. You Give Yourself Time for Prints and Cards

Holiday cards take time to design, print, and ship. If you’re hoping to send out something beautiful (and on time), early photos are your best friend. You’ll:

• Have time to thoughtfully select your favorite images
• Receive your gallery without rushing
• Send cards with joy, not stress

3. You Get First Pick of Locations and Times

Some of the most magical photo spots – like Shaws Cove or Caspers Park – book up fast during peak season. And the dreamy sunset lighting that everyone loves? Limited to golden hour… which means limited session slots.

Early birds enjoy:

• Access to the most scenic outdoor photo spots
• Ideal lighting conditions for natural, heartfelt portraits
• A calm and guided experience without the last-minute frenzy

4. You Avoid Feeling Like a Checklist Item

I never want our time together to feel transactional.

When there’s time to prepare, we can:

• Talk about outfit styling support (so you feel beautiful)
• Chat through any kiddo concerns (I’ve got tips and tricks!)
• Make the experience gentle, joyful, and real

That all becomes harder when it’s rushed – so let’s build in space for you to enjoy it.

This Season Deserves More Than Scrambling at the Last Minute

I know the holidays can sneak up on you, especially when you’re juggling all the hats – mom, partner, friend, worker, planner. But these photos? They’re more than a task to complete.

They’re a legacy.

They’ll sit in frames on grandparents’ mantels, be passed around during holiday dinners, and one day, be the images your kids show their own children when telling stories about “back when.”

That’s why I care so much about doing this well.

You deserve a session that feels filled with laughter, love, and ease. Not one where you’re watching the sky for rain, praying the kids cooperate, and hoping the cards arrive in time.

So… let’s plan ahead. You absolutely have time now.

Ready to Make Magic Together?

If you’ve been thinking about updating your holiday photos, now is such a gentle and wise time to do it.

Take a deep breath, check your calendar, and visit https://terialinaphotography.com/ to learn more or reach out directly. I’ll walk you through every step of the process with warmth and care.

And next time you see glittery ornaments staring at you on a store shelf, you can smile knowing… you’re already ahead of the season.

Because your memories deserve time, space… and heart.

With love, Terialina