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Christmas Photoshoot with Santa

Searching for a way to feel the true magic of Christmas?
Our Santa Photoshoot in Arlington Heights does exactly that.
It’s not just pictures – it’s the feeling of the season, brought to life.
You see it in every sparkle.
You feel it in every smile.
Children enter a cozy holiday scene, surrounded by shimmering lights and the fresh, familiar scent of pine that instantly feels like Christmas.
Then, the moment comes – Santa himself, smiling, waiting to listen.

Excitement takes over. The shy glances, the bursts of laughter, the quiet awe – every bit of it captured naturally. No forced poses. Just genuine wonder.

Each photo tells its own story. A little warmth. A little sparkle. The kind of holiday memory that stays with you long after the decorations come down.

What My Clients Say

Santa Photoshoot

5/5

146 reviews

Leave me a nice review
We had the best experience with Heartwritten Photography for our Christmas . Alice’s attention to detail is evident in every aspect of her work, from the set design to the final images. She is incredibly talented, very warm, professional and organized. Photo sessions with a dog and a baby are a bit of a challenge, but Alice was able to capture beautiful, natural moments that we will cherish forever. I would highly recommend her to my friends and family. Not to mention the holiday set in her studio was absolutely stunning. It wasn’t just a backdrop; it was a real, beautifully designed space. Alice really cares about her clients and knows how important these memories are. We got the pictures very quickly so I was able to order my Christmas cards in time. Thank you!
Monika Kolman
Alice is a truly talented photographer. She is so calm and patient with little ones and does her best to make everyone feel comfortable and happy throughout the entire session. Our portfolio is stunning as a result. We had such a hard time choosing which ones we wanted we actually chose over double the number we were planning on. Most importantly Alice is a wonderful person and we are thrilled to continue to support her and her business in the future. If you are looking for a photographer for your children do not look any further. Pediatrician approved! Two thumbs up <3
Melanie Marsh
Working with Alice was seamless. We had a rough day as a family before we came for our session. Regardless, Alice worked with us and knew how to position our very fussy little one. She got her in positions even though she was difficult to get to sleep. Our pictures turned out so well!! Especially of our little princess!
Deanna Ford
My family had a session for Christmas two months later we still get compliments how beautiful the photos are. Very professional and detailed photography. We felt comfortable in a warm, natural atmosphere. Alicja is amazing! She made the moment last forever which I’m beyond thankful for .
Ewelina przybylowicz
Alice was fabulous with our young kids. We appreciated that she kept things moving quickly so the kids didn’t lose interest and stayed within the promised time. The best part, of course, was the finished product! I’m kicking myself for not doing a family photo shoot sooner. The pictures, especially of the kids, were everything I had hoped for and more. Thank you Alice!
Diana M
Our new photographer of choice! Alice is so wonderful and her work is amazing! We did our mini Christmas shoot and her patience with our 5 month old and dog to get the right picture was incredible. Every photo she took was stunning! I will definitely use her here on out to capture our family moments!
Shannon Hunter
Phenomenal photographer! Great with children! Highly recommend if you are in the Northwest suburbs.
Angela O’Brien
Alicja knows how to capture these moments😊 Love her work! I had been a loyal customer for past four years, highly recommended!!
Beata Bagińska
We are very pleased to give Alicja of Heartwritten Photography a 5 star rating. She is a talented, helpful, & creative photographer. Quick to respond to texts & phone calls, her suggestions for the photoshoot were right on. Her positive personality at our shoot of 13 family members was especially appreciated when a toddler wasn't so cooperative. Her fee matched the quality she delivered. Very happy with the results we received from her. Patricia
Patricia

Where to get pictures with Santa

Think cozy. Think calm. Think close to home.

Our Santa Photoshoot in Arlington Heights brings the season’s magic to life without the rush or noise of crowded malls. No lines. No chaos. Just pure Christmas warmth.

If you’ve been searching for where to get pictures with Santa, this is it — a quiet studio where laughter replaces stress and every photo feels like a story. Santa family photos that actually feel like your family. Christmas pictures with Santa that glow with real emotion.

The lighting is soft. The backdrop sparkles. The air hums with holiday calm. Children whisper wishes. Parents exhale. Time slows, just for a bit.

How to Book Your Appointment with Santa

01 Choose your session

Santa’s Gingerbread Cottage

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Step into Santa’s Gingerbread Cottage, a festive holiday scene in soft brown and crisp white tones. This charming setup features a cozy gingerbread-inspired backdrop with lots of props where kids can meet Santa.
xmas mini sessions

Santa’s Express Session

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Spend 5 magical minutes with Santa, capture 3–5 photos, and drop off your letter!

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.