Holiday Card Planning: Tips for Perfect December Holiday Cards

lissettephoto
Oct 15
4 min read

Turn Candid Chaos into Holiday Card Joy

You know that moment right before a family photo when everyone's dressed up, kids are squirming, and you're nervously hoping at least one photo turns out share-worthy? I absolutely get it.

One of my favorite holiday card sessions ever involved a brilliantly funny mom who decided to literally string her kids up with Christmas lights - not in a Pinterest-fail kind of way, but in a heartwarmingly fun way. She had her younger child hold the end of the tangled lights while the older siblings looked playfully helpless. It was creative, it was chaotic, and it was such a joy to capture. Guess what? That photo became the perfect holiday card - because it captured that family's personality and spirit, 100% authentically.

Over the years, I’ve learned that the most meaningful holiday cards aren’t about posing like a magazine ad. They're about telling your story in a way that feels true to you. So grab a warm drink, take a breath, and let’s talk about how you can plan a joyful, stress-free holiday card session that turns into keepsakes you’ll treasure every December.

Holiday Portraits Should Feel Like You

Let’s be real - holiday portraits can feel overwhelming. There's a lot riding on these little pieces of printed joy: coordinating outfits, keeping kids happy, meeting print deadlines, and trying not to look awkward in front of the camera.

That’s why I always tell my clients - don’t chase perfection. Chase connection. The best holiday cards tell a story, even in just one photo. Whether it’s a silly moment with your toddler, a hug from grandma, or the dog stealing the show again, those are the stories that truly last.

At Lissette Pajaro Photography, I guide every family with patience and joy to create a personalized, comfortable session. It’s not about perfect smiles - it’s about preserving what matters most to you, in a way that feels relaxed and true.

Mom and kids having fun during a holiday session

How to Plan a Holiday Card Session You'll Actually Enjoy

Book Early (Seriously, Your Future Self Will Thank You)

Timing is everything, especially when it comes to holiday cards. I always recommend booking your session between late October and early November. This gives us time to plan, shoot, edit, and design your cards without rushing or cutting corners.

You’ll get your images proofed and perfected before the holiday rush.
There’s space to tweak designs and wording without panic.
And most importantly, your cards will be printed and in your hands with time to spare.

A beautiful card takes time, and your memories deserve that care.

Make It Original (The Secret Ingredient to a Memorable Card)

One of the things I love most? When families come in with ideas that reflect who they really are.

Whether you’re a cozy-by-the-fire type or full of playful holiday humor, I’ll help bring your vision to life. That could mean matching pajamas, a forest session with your pup, or your littles wearing antlers while traipsing through snow.

Some fun ways to personalize:

Bring a prop that reflects your tradition (think ornaments, a special book, or hot cocoa mugs)
Choose a location with meaning, whether it’s your backyard or your favorite NJ park
Don’t be afraid to break the “posed” rules - candid joy is my specialty

Let Go of the Pressure (You Don’t Have to Know What You’re Doing)

I hear it all the time: “I hate being in front of the camera” or “I never know how to pose.” Trust me, you're not alone.

That’s where I come in. I guide you from start to finish, providing all the hand-holding you need:

Outfit tips to help you feel great and look cohesive without being matchy-matchy
Location suggestions based on your style and comfort level, like cozy indoor spots or soft golden-hour fields
Gentle posing cues that keep things natural, not stiff

My job is to create a stress-free space where your family can slow down, connect, and feel like yourselves. No pressure, just guidance and patience throughout the entire process.

Why Holiday Cards Really Matter

Holiday cards are more than tradition - they’re a way of pausing time. A captured smile, a shared laugh, the way your child looks at you now, before they sprout up another inch next month. These are the memories you'll want to look back on.

It’s not about perfection. It’s about connection, story, and legacy.

A well-planned session that feels easy and joyful results in photos that light up your card and your family’s faces. This season, let’s create something meaningful together.

Ready for a Holiday Session That Feels Like You?

If you're hoping to create relaxed, natural holiday portraits this year, I’d love to help.

I serve families all across New Jersey, from Bergen County to Sussex County to the sandy corners of Cape May. Together, we’ll plan a holiday card session that’s stress-free, fun, and truly personal. Your story deserves to be told, not staged.

Let’s make this holiday season unforgettable - cozy chaos, twinkly lights, laughter and all.

Let’s plan your holiday session

Reach out soon to reserve your spot - because the best time to plan? It’s right now.