Christmas is coming, and if you're looking for a simple way to capture some beautiful festive family photographs in Dorset, a Christmas mini session could be just what you're looking for.
Christmas is such a lovely time of year for family photographs. The excitement, the cuddles, the children counting down to Christmas and all those little moments that make this time of year special. But I also know that booking a full family photography session isn't always practical in the run-up to Christmas.
That's why I've created my Christmas Mini Sessions near Wareham, Dorset, a short and affordable way to capture some festive memories without needing to commit to a full photography session.
Christmas Mini Sessions near Wareham
My Christmas Mini Sessions will take place on Saturday 14th November 2026, using a beautiful Christmas-themed backdrop.
Each session lasts approximately 15 minutes, making them perfect for families with younger children who might not want to spend a long time in front of the camera.
And because the sessions are short, they're also a lovely option if you've never had professional family photographs taken before.
The Christmas Mini Session includes:
15-minute photography session
Christmas-themed backdrop
Private online gallery
2 digital images of your choice
Option to purchase additional images
£29.99
What happens during the session?
One of the things I hear from families before their photography session is:
"We're terrible at having our photo taken!"
Don't worry, you definitely don't need to know what to do.
I'll guide you through the session and give you little prompts to encourage natural interactions between you and your children.
I'm not looking for everyone to sit perfectly still and smile at the camera for 15 minutes.
Some of my favourite family photographs are the ones where children are laughing, cuddling their parents, looking at each other or simply being themselves.
The aim is to create photographs that feel like your family, rather than overly posed portraits.
Why choose a Christmas mini session?
There are lots of reasons to have some professional Christmas photographs taken.
Christmas cards
If you send Christmas cards to family and friends, your photographs can make them extra special.
Gifts for grandparents
Grandparents don't usually need another pair of socks or a box of chocolates! 😂
A beautiful photograph of their grandchildren can make a lovely Christmas present.
Capture this stage of your family
Children change so quickly, and Christmas has a funny way of making you realise just how much they've grown since the previous year. Professional photographs give you something tangible to look back on.
A little Christmas memory for your home
Whether you print your photographs, put them in frames or simply keep them digitally, they can become a lovely reminder of this particular Christmas.
What should we wear for Christmas photographs?
You don't need matching Christmas jumpers for everyone, although if that's your family's thing, absolutely go for it! Anything Christmassy goes for these sessions!
For a timeless look, I'd recommend choosing colours that work nicely together rather than having everyone in exactly the same outfit. Warm neutrals, creams, red, burgundy, greens and browns can all work beautifully with the festive backdrop.
Most importantly, choose clothes that you feel comfortable in.
Your children don't have to wear something they've never worn before just because it looks good in photographs. If they're comfortable, they're much more likely to relax and enjoy the session.
What happens after your session?
After your Christmas mini session, I'll carefully edit your photographs before uploading them to a private online gallery within 2-3 weeks. Or if you just can't wait to see your photos, choose to add my optional "Skip-the-Queue" speedy editing to the booking process and you'll have your photos back within 24 hours.
You'll then be able to look through your photographs and choose your two favourite digital images, which are included in the £29.99 session fee. If you fall in love with more than two, you'll also have the option to purchase additional images from your gallery.
Christmas Mini Sessions Dorset — 14th November 2026
If you'd like to capture some festive family photographs this year, I'd love to see you.
Christmas Mini Sessions
Saturday 14th November 2026
15-minute session
Near Wareham, Dorset
£29.99
2 digital images included
Spaces are limited.
BOOK YOUR CHRISTMAS MINI SESSION →
Looking for a family photographer in Dorset?
If you're looking for something beyond Christmas mini sessions, I also offer family photography sessions throughout Dorset, including relaxed lifestyle sessions designed around your family.
From beach sessions at Studland to adventures in the Dorset countryside, I love capturing genuine connection and the little moments that make your family unique.
A few practical things to think about when choosing your location
It's easy to get caught up in how beautiful somewhere looks, but there are a few practical things worth considering too.
How easy is it to get there?
Think about parking and how far you'll need to walk from the car.
A beautiful location that involves a long walk with a tired toddler, bags, coats and a baby probably isn't going to feel quite so beautiful by the time you arrive!
If anyone in your family has mobility needs, we'll take that into consideration too.
Are there toilets nearby?
This might not sound particularly important when you're looking at gorgeous photographs online, but if you're bringing young children, it's definitely worth checking!
I'll help you think about practicalities like this when we're planning your session.
How suitable is the ground?
Some locations have easy paths, while others might involve sand, uneven ground, mud, steps or hills.
That's not necessarily a problem, it just helps to know what you're getting into so you can choose suitable footwear and clothing.
And if your children are likely to spend the session running through the mud, embrace it!
What is the weather likely to be doing?
The weather can make a big difference to some locations.
A windy beach, for example, can feel very different from a sheltered woodland.
We'll keep an eye on the forecast before your session and talk through the options if the weather isn't looking suitable.
Dorset weather can be unpredictable, so having a plan B is never a bad idea!
What time will we be there?
The time of day can completely change the look and feel of a location.
For outdoor sessions, I particularly love golden hour, when the light becomes softer and warmer towards sunset.
However, we also need to consider your family's routine.
There's no point choosing the most beautiful sunset if your children are exhausted and ready for bed!
What should you bring?
You don't need to bring loads with you, but a few practical things can be useful depending on the location and time of year.
Think about:
Water and snacks for the children
A change of clothes if we're near water or mud
Coats or extra layers if it's chilly
Sensible footwear
Sun cream and hats in warmer weather
Any comfort items your child might need
Don't worry about bringing lots of props or things to keep the children entertained. I'll use the location itself to create opportunities for natural photographs.
What time of day is best?
The location and the time of day work together. For outdoor sessions, I particularly love golden hour, when the light becomes softer and warmer towards sunset. It's beautiful for beach, woodland and countryside sessions and can give photographs a lovely natural glow.
But the best time also depends on your children and your family's routine. There's no point choosing the “perfect” light if your toddler is exhausted and ready for bed! I'll help you choose a time that works for both your family and the type of photographs we're hoping to create.
So, what's the best location for your family?
The answer is simply:
The one where you can be yourselves.
You don't need an impressive location.
You don't need a perfectly styled backdrop.
You don't even need everyone to be on their best behaviour.
You just need somewhere that allows you to spend time together, because that's what I want to capture.
The cuddles.
The laughter.
The running.
The little hands.
The muddy shoes.
The silly moments.
The way your children look at you.
Those are the photographs that tell your family's story.
Want some Dorset location inspiration?
I've put together a guide to some of my favourite family photoshoot locations in Dorset if you're looking for ideas. And if you're still not sure where would work best for your family, that's absolutely fine. When you book a family photography session with me, we can chat about your family, what you enjoy doing together and what kind of photographs you'd love to have.
Whether that's running along the beach at sunset, exploring a woodland, wandering through the countryside or staying cosy at home, we'll find something that feels right for you. If you've never had a family photoshoot before, you can also read my guide to what to expect from a family photography session in Dorset.
Your family doesn't need to fit the location.
The location should fit your family.
