As soon as people learn that you’re pregnant, you’ll likely be inundated with advice. Eat this and avoid that. Watch out for this. Do this but don’t do that. It can be a lot. For all of the good intentions, parenthood is different for all of us. But the one piece of advice that is universally accepted is that your children grow quickly. One moment the doctor is giving you an ultrasound photo and the next that same kid is handing you their high school diploma. Of course, you'll want to document all of these seemingly fleeting moments. Especially all of the "firsts."
Christmas is coming, and if this is the first time your little one will be celebrating the holiday season with the family, we have some low-effort and affordable photo shoot ideas to help you capture your little one’s preciousness without necessarily splurging for a professional photographer.
Stocking Stuffer
$19.99
from
What better way to celebrate the best gift you’ll ever receive? Snuggle your newborn into this adorable stocking wearing a tiny Santa hat, and this image is sure to be a hit. Instead of hanging this stocking from the chimney with care, you can place it over blankets or a snowy, white background. You'll be good to go for the perfect shot.
Santa's Been Waiting To See ME.
From
$11
to $32
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Many children are so excited at even the thought of seeing Santa Claus that they may find it hard to sleep at night. But chances are your little one hasn't had a chance to take in all the magic of Santa lore just yet.
For the first Christmas, the baby will be the main attraction. Dress the little one in this sweet pea outfit and customizable hat so Santa doesn't miss the baby, lay the infant on a cozy blanket next to the tree, and take lots of photos.
Snow Angel
Nothing makes the Christmas season official like a blanket of snow. If you happen to get your wish for a white Christmas, bundle up baby in this plush bear snowsuit by Carter's and gently place the little one on the soft white stuff. Move their arms up and down and their legs side to side to create wings and a skirt. Don't forget to add a halo for your sweet snow cherub.
Sweet Like Candy Canes
If you want a professional-looking photo shoot but don't necessarily want to buy all of the decor and can't make it to a photo studio, this candy cane backdrop from Etsy might be what you're looking for. This digital download allows you — with the help of editing software — to snap a picture of your little one and drop it into this file. If you're a little stumped on how to pull this off, the seller has offered to help. Just send a message.
Sitting By the Tree
If your baby is closer to toddler age for the first Christmas, this quick and simple shoot might work best for you. All you'll need is a tree — either the one you're using for the holiday or a smaller, frosted one — and a chair, fuzzy throw optional.
Pop your little one into the spot, let them do their thing, snap the pics quickly, and you're done. These adorable reindeer pajamas, complete with feet, are available at Target.
Family Pajamas
Who isn't a sucker for Christmas pajamas? Not only do they guarantee that you’ll be comfortable all day long, but they also make for great pictures. Why not make the photo shoot a family affair with this multicultural Santa set?
That way if your baby is not the only child in the family, everyone can feel special and included. This pattern is even available for the family dog!
Baby Christmas Crown
If you're into glitz and glamour and want your baby's style to reflect that (before they develop their own), this adorable headband is a must-have. This winter-themed adornment will pair perfectly with any sparkly dress. It's the perfect accessory for hair that can't quite be styled just yet and ideal for a quick and easy snazzy holiday photo shoot.
Santa's Helper
If you want to make a Christmas photo shoot very simple, these "Santa's Helper" hats are a smart and effective accessory. No fancy outfits are needed; this hat will pair well with your baby's diaper or a neutral onesie or set of jammies.
You can take the photo to the next level by having your baby sit or lay among a string of Christmas lights, and you've created some holiday magic.
Sign It Out
If you missed the opportunity to introduce your little one to the world with a letterboard sign, it's not too late: You can use it for the first time or once again for Christmas. Swaddle your baby as shown here, or have the tot hold the sign for themselves if they've started to grasp well.
You can get really creative with the words on the sign with a note to Santa from your little one or simply note that it's the baby's first Christmas.
Build a Snowman
Do you want to build a snowman? Instead of using the cold, wet stuff, use your own baby to create one, of course! This crochet set is adorable and a perfect way to celebrate your first holiday together and create a memento at the same time.
*Psst: if you choose to purchase an item from this post, CafeMom.com may receive a small cut. Each item and price is up to date at the time of publication; however, an item may be sold out or the price may be different at a later date.
