Investing in Your Holiday Memories.

It is that time of year! Red, green, jingle bells, shiny colors, white sparkles, and happy smiles. Join Chelsea V for Holiday themed sessions in the studio and outdoors. Each year, a different set is available for Mini sessions. The sets are a lot of fun to put together and take about a year in advance (gotta collect those props and run a few tests). Mini sessions are a great opportunity to get your Christmas photos done early for cards, gifts, and updating your family photo.

Now, are you saying, “well, I’m nervous” or “my kids can be pretty crazy” or “it’s just me and my dog”? Don’t sweat it! I have worked with people and pets for over 15 years. As far as kids with big personalities, almost all children take some warming up. Some great kids have bad days, but even if they’re pouting or shy, those photos can come out so precious.  As for you, you’re important too! I work with adults all the time. I guide you, pose you, and give you suggestions. I can even text or e-mail with you sharing Pinterest boards or photos for ideas. If you’re feeling stressed about photos, let me take care of it. Part of my job is your creative director. I love people and I love what I do, so I am looking forward to working with you and the family.

Looking for regular sessions?

What to Expect.

People don’t hire photographers just for their gear. When you hire a professional photographer, you’re asking for their insight and experience. During the session, you and your family will receive full instructions on how to pose, where to put hands, how to tilt your head, and help with little details like hair placement. With holiday sessions, I love to do posed photos and candid/lifestyle sets. This means we get to play and have fun as well as grab the classic smiling portraits. Most of the professional “candid” photos are actually fully posed and instructed! That is why it is so hard to get a photo like that on your own. That doesn’t mean stiff or forced smiles. It will mean I do some work with you to make you laugh, get to know your family, and try to find your personalities to show your relationship bonds. After we finish the session, I send you a gallery online with stylized adjustments and light editing. You pick your final images. In the final photos, I will do an additional clean up (retouch) and deliver them in high resolution digital files. You can also order prints or greeting cards that ship directly to your home.  At any point you’d like a zoom meeting or phone conference, let me know. Chelsea V Photography makes the planning process and photo selection easy on you, so you can show up and have some fun.

Limited days in November and December are available each year. Holiday Mini sessions are 15 minute (1) outfit sessions. You provide the outfits for your kiddos and yourself, but I can send you recommendations to match the color theme or set. All sessions are first come first serve when booking, so book early to get your ideal appointment before Christmas card sending is due!

White Christmas Themed Set.

For 2023, Chelsea V Photography is offering Holiday Minis in the studio with a White Christmas theme. There will be a large flocked Christmas tree, lights, silver and white decorations, and a printed background. These sessions are available in studio, so you don’t have to worry about rain or cold weather.

Schedule Studio

Limited Outdoor Minis.

Midland Poway Railroad typically decorates fencing/railings with garlands, bulbs, lights, and flowers. They have a special event with Santa before Christmas, so it is a really cool spot for photos. This is a very popular spot for photographers, so expect it to be pretty busy.

Old Town will have decorations depending on the businesses. It isn’t nearly as decked out as Midland Poway Railroad, but it is a really nice spot to get some holiday vibes. Mornings are a great time to avoid the crowds.

For either session, small props like Christmas flowers will be available. Very limited availability. *Sessions are rain or shine. In the event of heavy rain or very poor weather, the event will be moved to the studio for the White Christmas themed set. 

Schedule Poway Railroad

Outdoor Sessions.

If you’d like to book a full session, you can select from locations like the beach, Balboa Park, Julian or just a longer session in the studio with the themed set.  Residents enjoy finding new locations like Rancho Penasquitos trails, parks with playgrounds, or seeing our beautiful cliffs and bluffs at places in Torrey Pines. Either way, Chelsea V Photography offers a variety of locations within and near San Diego. If you’re not sure where to start, just give a general idea (beach or park) and Chelsea will do give suggestions, research an area, or try to find a new spot for you. Outdoor sessions are one of the most popular family session requests. We have such beautiful weather in San Diego and so many iconic locations.

Outdoor sessions are highly recommended near sunset. Morning and other times available depending on the location. Chelsea carefully plans your session around lighting and tides. If you know you want a Saturday sunset sessions, contact as soon as possible especially during holidays. Individual sessions are held without a Christmas theme set unless you would like to request one. Please contact for a consultation for outdoor themes and props.

Studio Sessions.

Air conditioning (or heater), no wind, no rain and a dressing room!? Count you in, right? The studio is a perfect option for a more controlled environment. With solid color backgrounds and printed options, the studio allows for a cleaner look. You won’t have to worry about weather, wind, or finding a bathroom. More times are available for individual sessions, so you can work around schedules like kiddos’ bedtimes. Holiday minis will be held in the studio with Christmas trees and decorations. Individual/VIP sessions are available to families that prefer longer sessions and/or custom theme requests. The studio is located in Miramar near Mira Mesa. Chelsea V Photography, 7905 Silverton Ave, #107 San Diego CA 92126.

Individual studio sessions are available throughout the day Wednesday-Saturday. Saturdays book quickly during peak holidays and summer. Book ahead of time to secure your spot.

Schedule a Full Session

Consultation and Planning included.

Include some information about you and your family. How many members? Anyone under 18 (kiddos)? Any pets? Have a location in mind? No worries if not! I am happy to help you.