One of the best parts of being a photographer is that I have built annual traditions around new portraits for my own two children. Each year, we capture their birthday portraits, 4th of July photos, and holiday portraits too! It’s special to me to be able to look back and really see how they grow & change. I love that I am able to watch all of that unfold year by year because of these specific traditions.

This year, we had a big first: Grayson was missing his front teeth in portraits! (“Alexa, play ‘All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth!’”). It’s hard to believe we’re already at the age of missing teeth and gummy smiles for my big guy! His sister is growing up so fast too. Even though she showed off her favorite pigtails, Adelaide looks so grown and I can hardly believe how fast time feels like it’s flying.

We did our traditional holiday setup, plus portraits with Santa. (Check out more holiday & santa portraits of my clients here and here). I’m so happy that we captured both setups for them. I loved being able to capture their matching pajamas (who knows how much longer that will last?!) and then more cozy inspired winter outfits. Grayson and Adelaide were great sports, and I think we managed to capture some truly tender moments between them - which I know, as their mom, I’ll love for years to come.

Like me, my children love the holidays. I wanted to share a few holiday traditions we are enjoying this year with you. Perhaps you’ll find one that you want to include in your own family!

Our daily stocking calendar.
Cookie decorating!
Visiting family on Cape Cod and playing with the cousins.
Lots of picnic dinners under the Christmas tree.
Reading so many holiday books.
Seeing what fun little gifts Grayson picks out for everyone at his school’s holiday gift market. Last year was his first year doing this in kindergarten, and seeing the Hot Wheels car he came home with for Adelaide was too cute!
Visiting Santa Claus at his cottage on Broadway in Saratoga Springs.
The Victorian Streetwalk in downtown Saratoga.
Hanging up all of our friends' and family’s holiday cards.
Enjoying lots of Christmassy scents in our wax warmer all season long.

No matter how you celebrate the season, we’re sending you so much love. Have a beautiful holiday!

See another holiday session with my kids!