Ready to kick the holidays off right?

2021 holiday mini sessions start now!

holiday mini sessions!

We know how busy the holiday season gets and let’s face it, finding time to get the whole family infront of the camera for 2 hours just isn’t feasable.

These quick 10-15 minute sessions are the perfect way to get that image for your family holiday card, wall art, or even just to round out that 2021 family album.

cost: $100 (with 20% donation going to All Points West GSP Rescue)

What’s included? 10-15 minute session, 5 high resolution digital files for download and right to print photos. The opportunity to purchase additional print products will be offered after your session.

Book before Small Business Saturday on November 27th, 2021 to receive a $50 print credit on all print orders!

FAQs

What about bad weather?

The thing no one wants to talk about. In the event of rain, we will do our best to re-schedule at a time that works best for you the following week.

The holiday mini sessions are designed as an outdoor activity, and the set up is most photogenic and magical when it snows. Thus, if there is snow, and the degree temperature is tolerable, the sessions will go on as scheduled with those customers that are ok with it. That being said, we don't want to be standing around in the freezing cold either! If the temperature is below 35 degrees Fahrenheit, we will likely get in touch to reschedule. We take many factors into account before making a final decision and all customers will be emailed with booking options if an advanced decision to close is made.

What is the turnaround time?

Most, but not all, customers like to include photos from their holiday mini sessions in their seasonal cards to friends and family. We understand this. We aim to have all digital files available for customers within 3-5 days of the shoot. This ensures that whether you choose to self print, or order prints through our store, there is plenty of time for the cards to get to their recipients.

What are the COVID-19 precautions?

All shoots are outdoors, which greatly reduces risk to everyone involved. We will also have hand sanitizer stations to use before coming in contact with props. All props that are handled by customers will be sanitized between shoots. Finally, the photographer will maintain 6ft distance from customers during the shoot and utilize a face mask if there is a scenario in which the space cannot be maintained or by client request.

Can we bring the fur babies?

If you would like to bring Rover, We would love to include them in the shoot. You know your dog best so keep in mind the limited time we have to work within and recognize that bringing a dog may impact the number of setups we can do. Keep in mind we are on a tight turn around, so only bring your pet if your furry friend can meet these conditions:

On a 6ft leash at all times
Well trained on voice command
Has a history of good behavior with other dogs and people. (No one wants to break up a dog fight)
Is not reactive to flashing lights or popping sounds

Dog lovers will be happy to hear that this year Matthew Steaffens Photography has partnered with All Points West GSP Rescue in a donation campaign. 20% of every donation fee will be donated to this wonderful non-profit!

Tips and tricks for a successful shoot

Be early!

Arrive no less than 15 minutes before you are scheduled! Since multiple families are being photographed in a day it's important to stay on schedule. Give yourself plenty of time to find parking, find the photo shoot, and have a second to catch your breath. We only have 10 minutes so you want to be ready when your name is called.

picking your time slot

We HIGHLY recommend choosing a time slot when the little ones are usually happy. Sunset appointments have nice lighting but if it's in the normal 'nap time' no amount of lighting tricks can overcome an unhappy camper. Just something to keep in mind when you're scheduling.

don’t be hungry

Bring snacks for the kiddos. Try to make sure to eat before hand so stomachs are happy. We know how things can go downhill without those afternoon snacks. Nobody wants holiday cards with crying kids or a grumpy parent.

Clothing

Christmas PJs, sweaters, or other coordinated outfit choices are not required, but can create fun looks. Remember, to be comfortable, and be yourself. Keep in mind this is an outdoor session, and to bring clothes that are weather appropriate.

What to bring?

Don’t worry too much! We will have blankets, signs, and Christmas decor so you only need to bring yourself and your family. If there is a specific blanket you would like to bring from home, we can work with that too.

Groupings

We do have limited times so while we want to incorporate as much as we can in the time we have, these sessions are meant to focus on immediate family groupings. If multi-generations and extended families are requested, please enquire about an extended session.