The Secrets Behind Successful Santa Photos

“You better watch out, you better not cry, you better not pout, I’m tell you why; Santa Clause is coming to town.”

It’s a tradition in our house to take at least one picture with Santa every year. The holiday season just doesn’t seem complete without the big man, his bowl full of jelly, rosy cheeks and his long white beard. Some people don’t mind the crying baby photos, but I always felt a little sad for the little ones who didn’t seem to like sitting on Santa’s lap. So here are the secrets behind successful Santa photos; at least in my humble opinion.;)

1)  Ditch the super uncomfortable clothes; ties, itchy dresses, etc…let them wear something cozy, comfortable and fun. I was gifted** the most adorable outfits from Crazy 8 for our kids this year and knew they would be perfect for our day with Santa. Colton was in a pair of their sweats, which he didn’t want to take off, a puffer vest and the ever so clever graphic tee that read “I’m on Santa’s nice list.” Which could not have been more appropriate for this little dude.

Rosie wore a “wish” graphic tee, also appropriate since she wishes she could literally be a princess. She also loved twirling around in the confetti skirt (which is on sale for $13), leggings and a little wooly vest that has ears on the hood. She felt great and I was just happy she agreed to wear something other than a princess gown. Both kids also loved their hats, which were super fun with the little pom-poms and also functional to keep their ears warm on the cold day.

I have to add that everything on Crazy 8 is on sale right now and their prices are VERY reasonable!! So let your kiddos #shineyourway this holiday season with all of their fun mix and match styles.

2) Give details. Make sure to explain exactly where you are going and what you will be doing. I think parents forget that young children probably don’t remember a previous year of meeting Santa. Our five year old is just now recalling things from his past, so don’t expect your kids will know what to do when they get there. Give a detailed description of how you may have to wait in line and there will be other children there all excited to meet Santa. Make sure they know it is up to them if they want to greet Santa with a hug or a high-5 and encourage them to talk to Santa, especially if they tend to be more shy.

3) Write a letter. A great way to break the ice is to have your child write their letter to Santa before you arrive. That way if they do get shy and can’t remember what they want to say (or maybe they are a baby and don’t talk yet) it is a nice option for Santa to read the letter and be able to connect with your child.

4) Start Clicking ASAP. Take pictures as soon as your child walks up to Santa. Don’t wait for the “perfect” moment, it may never happen. I love capturing them just talking to Santa or giving him their list. In this case, Colton was very proud to show Santa his shirt, which was a great conversation piece.

5) Be flexible. If your child or baby does not want to sit on Santa’s lap or even stand next to him for a picture, try jumping in the picture yourself. More often than not your kiddo will be more happy if you are next to him/her.

6) Go during their “happiest time.” As with any photo you are trying to get; avoid nap times, hungry times and any other times of day your child seems to not do well. And since it is typically cold and flu season, make sure you don’t push it when they may not be feeling up to par. It goes without saying that pushing a child to do something when they really need to be napping or eating is not going to end well. Do Santa a favor and pick the best time of day for your child.

7) Have fun! Hopefully your child is excited to meet Santa. Plus, the idea of a sweet candy cane might help things out a bit. If not, maybe even reconsider and just superimpose Santa, there are apps that can do that!;)

Do you take pictures with Santa? How do your kids react when they see him? All photo’s were taken at Santa’s Village.

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***The outfits in these photos were gifted to me by Crazy 8, but as always all opinions and advice are my own.***