Outfit guide for your 2025 Santa Experience

How to look "storybook ready"

Santa photos are a little different than traditional family photos. Many of my What to Wear for Family Photos tips still apply (like coordinating instead of matching). See my Christmas tips using the link below.

Much of the current line of clothing is not designed with beautiful portraiture in mind. The crazy patterns and bright colors distract from the most important part of the picture, the child’s face and expression. It’s cute to have a reindeer on a child’s chest, but it doesn’t add to a beautiful picture. I prefer the timeless feel of classic, simple, solid-colored PJs with a collared shirt for boys. Even the solid flannel PJs with the feet are great for a session. Girls look fine in boys' PJs or a simple nightgown. Formal clothes in Christmas plaid can be great too. It is a very classic look. Colors can be important. I recommend you stay with the primary colors red, green, or blue. One other color I love because of its elegance is white. I didn’t think much about that until someone dressed their kids in white for a session. I fell in love with that look. Choice of clothing is the most important thing a client can contribute to the success of their portrait. So next time you take your children to see Santa, take a moment to think about what you would like the finished picture to look like and think about how what they wear to the session could make the difference.

This year we are mixing it up for everyone to give you a brand-new experience!

Christmas Outfit Guide

We are starting with the Polar Express scene, so I recommend starting out with pajamas with either a robe or a pea coat with slippers. See examples above. NOTE: Book your session by October 1st & I will supply the coats or the bathrobe to use for the session!

PS. I have several sizes of dresses & pajamas; please ask!

Consider this: My Santa photo sessions are a unique experience that celebrates the wonder of Christmas through a child’s eyes. Pajamas are what children would naturally be wearing when Santa visits their homes on Christmas Eve. Pajamas for photos with Santa capture some of that magic that kids feel when they are tucked into bed the night before Christmas.

What to wear at the North Pole

After everyone arrives at the North Pole, they will discover Santa's secret closet! This closet will be filled with his red suit, hats, and boots. Santa, of course, will be the main focal point, so you'll want to select colors that complement his red suit rather than compete with it or blend in. Santa will make a grand entrance on into the scene after they start trying things on

At this point, it's up to you whether they stay in their PJs or change into traditional Christmas attire. I recommend they remain in their PJs and simply remove their coats or bathrobes to try on Santa's coat, hat, and other accessories.

The rest of the scenes will take place in Santa's Living Room

This is where I recommend changing into your Christmas outfits. Parents are more than welcome to join in some of the scenes. If children are uneasy or become upset, parents may need to jump in, so come dressed & ready.

NOTE: Most of the examples above are not my photos; I will have the SAME SANTA as always. These are for you to use to choose clothing.

View My Outfit Pinterest Board