Family Christmas Photographer - Alice Christmas Mini Photo Sessions in Arlington Heights
Looking for a magical way to capture your family’s holiday spirit? Our Christmas mini photo sessions in Arlington Heights are perfect for families, couples, and kids. Celebrate your holiday season with a short, cozy holiday session for your loved ones. Think evergreen sets, a glowing christmas tree, and subtle christmas lights that let the joy (not the props) lead the way.
Meet The Artist - Alice
Hi I’m Alicja (you can call me Alice) – and a mom to three adorable children – fun spirited girls: Lily, Emma, and Zoe. Our home is full of joy, glitter, bedtime stories, and yes… toys everywhere. Because I live that beautiful chaos daily, I know exactly how to make your Christmas family photography feel easy, relaxed, and fun.
I design cozy, festive sets with soft, natural light and gentle direction, so you don’t have to stress about posing or “perfect” smiles. I keep sessions short and kid-friendly, while still capturing the hugs, the goofy faces, and the tiny moments you’ll want to remember. In other words: simple process, warm vibes, beautiful holiday images.
Every christmas photography experience its magic – includes styling guidance (think colors, textures, and what photographs best), a welcoming studio setup, and a calm, patient approach – ideal for little ones and camera-shy dads alike.
My goal?
Real connection over stiff poses, timeless over trendy, memories over madness.
As a mom, I get it – with your own family it’s hard to stop taking photos on a mobile phone. In session, parents can breathe – I guide the children so you simply sit together and let the connection show.
That’s how we get a successful shoot even on a messy day.
What My Clients Say
5/5
143 reviews
A peek at recent “Merry Christmas” mini sessions in Arlington Heights
Simple, joyful — that’s the heart of my Christmas family studio work. Quick minis, gentle direction, and images full of love. Peek at my gallery to see the backdrop.
Why Choose Our Christmas Mini Sessions
Stress-free process
No long wait times or drawn-out posing. Sessions are quick, playful, and perfect for energetic little ones.
Short & child-friendly sessions
Fun for everyone
Kids laugh, grown-ups relax, and the experience is truly such a blast.
Beautiful, loving digital images
Thoughtful packages
Every package includes styling tips, a welcoming studio setup, and my calm, patient approach so clients feel cared for from start to finish.
Trusted by other families
What’s Included in Your Christmas Photo Shoot
This year I’m offering a variety of packages with beautiful backgrounds — something for everyone. Take a look at the options, start thinking about what to wear, and choose the package you’d like to purchase to capture your holiday memories
Each package includes digital images from your session, a what-to-wear guide to help plan your outfits, and examples of previous sessions so you know exactly what to expect. Every little one receives a candy cane for good behavior, and if you’d like, additional images can be purchased to make your holiday collection even more special. Once you book, you’ll get an email confirmation – don’t worry, I won’t let you forget!
Many parents also use their portraits to create beautiful Christmas cards to send friendly wishes and say Merry Christmas to loved ones. Depending on the package, the time of your experience may vary to fit your family’s needs.
I’m looking forward to capturing your family’s joy and charm this holiday season – let’s make it unforgettable together!
Check below to see the beautiful backdrops I’m offering this year.
Photo Studio for Your Whole Family
Think cozy, calm, and close to home. My studio in Arlington Heights is set up for indoor Christmas sessions that feel warm and easy from the moment you walk in. It’s the kind of place where the magic of the season can truly unfold— children laughing, parents relaxing, and joyful moments unfolding naturally. With festive backdrops, soft lighting, and a stress-free flow, everything is designed so that the best holiday memories can happen right here, without the chaos of crowded locations or the chill of winter weather.
How to Book Your Appointment
01 Choose your session
Cream&Cocoa Indoor Session
An elegant, cozy, and minimalist holiday setup in soft cream and tender brown tones.
Cream&Cocoa Outdoor Session
This cozy, nostalgic scene features a classic vintage car styled in soft cream and cozy cocoa tones. Baby it’s cold outside!
The Simple Joy Christmas
Step inside a delightful white phone booth, sprinkled with charming brown and cream presents.
Santa’s Gingerbread Cottage
Santa’s Express Session
Book Your Own Time
A Signature Session lets you choose the day and time that works best for you – no need to fit into mini-session dates.
02 Reserve your spot
- Pick a date/time in the booking system
- Sign the short agreement + pay the retainer
- Instant confirmation lands in your inbox
03 Get ready (the easy way)
- I’ll email a quick prep guide: outfit tips, how to dress , what to bring, parking, studio entry
03 After the session
- Proof gallery in a few days
- Choose favourite digital images
- Additional images available for purchase after session, if desired
Good to know: If a kiddo gets sick, we reschedule - family first. Extended families are welcome to book; please contact the photographer. Strollers and grandparents are welcome. Pets too (just give me a heads-up).
Frequently Asked Questions
As soon as you know you want in. Holiday weekends and Santa photoshoot slots sell out first, then indoor Christmas mini sessions, then outdoor. If you’re a planner, grab a date early; if you’re last-minute, still check — I often open an extra block when demand spikes.
- Indoor Christmas Mini Sessions: cozy studi , weather-proof and easy with little kids.
- Outdoor Christmas Mini Sessions: evergreens, blankets; we chase a soft golden hour when we can.
- Santa Photoshoot: a short, calm visit with Santa focused on connection (shy kids welcome). Fewer poses, more magic.
Minis run about 15–30 minutes . We’ll do family together, siblings, and a quick individual if time allows. You’ll get a proof gallery in a few days and choose your favorites. Simple, quick, done.
Keep it comfy and coordinated, not matchy. Neutrals + seasonal tones work beautifully (cream, pine, cranberry, denim). Avoid big logos and neon. Text me outfit pics the couple of days before — I’ll send quick tweaks so you don’t overthink it.
Yes to both! Grandparents are always welcome. Pets are too — just give me a heads-up so I can prep lint rollers and timing.
Minis are designed for immediate family. If you’re a bigger crew (or want cousins/grandparents in multiple combos), book two back-to-back slots so no one feels rushed.
You’re in good hands. I use gentle prompts and tiny games so kids relax. We move fast, keep it light, and shift gears when needed. Wiggles are normal; real smiles follow.
If it’s pouring or dangerously cold, we’ll reschedule or move you indoors if a studio slot is open. Gentle snow can be gorgeous — we’ll decide together the day before.
Please reschedule. I keep a few hold-back slots specifically for family illness because… life. We’ll find a new time.
Snacks, wipes, a hairbrush, and a favorite tiny bribe (stickers work wonders). I have tissues, spare hair ties, and a lint roller at the studio.
A proof gallery lands in your inbox in 3–5 days. After you select favorites, final edited images are delivered shortly after (usually within the week).
Yes – you can add prints, framed pieces, or cards right from your gallery. If you need help choosing, I’ll recommend sizes that fit your walls.
For minis, one outfit is best so we keep momentum. A quick accessory swap (cardigan, hat, bow) is totally fine.An additional outfit change is permitted when booking both walls on one set.
I include light, natural retouching (flyaways, small distractions). Extra edits (e.g., complex object removal) are available on request.
Get In Touch
If you’re looking for a photographer and you connect with my work, I would love to hear from you!