When to Plan a Pet Photo Session for the Holidays
Photo by Marie Wulfram Photography
As the holidays approach, it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of planning, decorating, and gift-buying.
Amidst all the chaos, one thing often slips through the cracks—planning for your holiday photo session.
Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy fall-themed shoot or a winter wonderland backdrop, knowing when to book your session and how far in advance to plan can make all the difference in creating lasting memories this year.
Fall: The Early Bird Gets the Worm
Fall is one of the most popular seasons for photography, and it’s no surprise why.
The vibrant colors, crisp air, and cozy vibes make it a perfect backdrop for capturing memories.
However, with its popularity comes the challenge of availability. If you’re hoping to schedule a fall session, it’s crucial to reach out to your photographer as soon as possible.
Many photographers start booking up months in advance, and those prime autumn dates can disappear quickly.
Don’t wait until the last minute, especially if you have a specific theme, setting, or photographer in mind. In Washington, where the weather can change on a dime, booking early also gives you the flexibility to reschedule if Mother Nature decides to be uncooperative.
Consider Turnaround Times
When planning your session, it’s important to factor in the turnaround time for your photos, especially if some will be used for holiday cards or even gifts.
Here’s a general list of turnaround times for us at Marie Wulfram Photography to help you plan:
Digitals: Expect a turnaround time of about 2 weeks.
Base products and wall art: Allow 3-4 weeks.
Albums: Plan for 4-6 weeks.
Luxury wall art: These can take up to 12 weeks.
If you’re aiming to use your photos for holiday cards or gifts, consider these timelines carefully. For example, if you want a beautiful family album to gift on Christmas, you’ll need to have your session booked and completed by mid-October at the latest (meaning you should reach out before the summer ends to get on the schedule).
Planning ahead ensures that your photos are ready and waiting, rather than stressing over last-minute prints.
Photo by Marie Wulfram Photography
Plan for the Memories, Not Just the Holidays
It’s easy to think of holiday photos as just another item to check off your to-do list, but they can be so much more.
Instead of focusing solely on holiday cards or gifts, consider planning a session that captures a meaningful moment in time for your family. Whether it’s a day at your favorite fall hiking trail, a visit to the local pumpkin patch, or just a cozy afternoon at home, these sessions create timeless memories.
You can always use a photo or two for your holiday cards or gifts, but the real treasure is the experience shared and the collection of images that tell your story.
What If the Holidays Are Almost Here?
Sometimes, life gets in the way, and you might find yourself needing a last-minute gift or session.
If you’ve missed the window for a full session, don’t worry! We offer gift certificates, which make a thoughtful and flexible present perfect for the pet lover in your life.
What could be better than the gift of lasting memories and a way to hold on to their pet forever?
Photo by Marie Wulfram Photography
The key to stress-free holiday photos is simple: plan ahead.
Reach out to your photographer early, consider the turnaround times for your desired products, and focus on creating a session that’s meaningful to you and your family.
With a little foresight, you’ll not only have beautiful images to share during the holidays but also a collection of memories that will last a lifetime.
So, whether you’re dreaming of a fall foliage backdrop or a snowy winter wonderland, start planning today to ensure you capture the magic of the season.
Reach out today to start planning your holiday pet photos!