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.

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 mix posed photos with candid/lifestyle images. 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). You can order prints, wall art, greeting cards that ship directly to your home. If you prefer digital files, those are available as well. 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!

Schedule Studio

Limited Outdoor Promo Sessions.

Promotional holiday outdoor sessions are available during October and November. These sessions are discounted and go quickly, so be sure to book in advance.

Adventure! Imperial Dunes are for the type of person that wants something new and exciting for their Christmas cards or family photos. You’ll see the beautiful rolling sand hills of Brawley. This session requires a day’s worth of time, but well worth your investment for a unique fall adventure.

Beach Scripps Pier is a very popular spot for San Diego locals and visitors. The view is excellent with the pier nearby and the sand cliffs a short distance from there. These sessions are held near sunset for the best opportunity to get beautiful lighting.

Midland Poway Railroad is a favorite spot for a rustic location. Train tracks, vintage buildings and even a park nearby. This is a very popular spot. If you’re interested in waiting for the holiday decorations to be put up, contact me about a full session in early December.

Giant Grove Trail is a little known spot in Scripps Ranch. This tree features tall eucalyptus trees along a maintained trail. Wonderful for those who are a bit more shy or like the feeling of being away from crowds.

Library Lake is a great spot near Lake Miramar but avoids the big crowds. A small lake runs along side an old brick wall with stairs. Nice spot for kids and and family with the library nearby.

Rancho Penasquitos Trails is one of my long time favorite locations for local trails. A beautiful white bark tree grove sits right at the head of the tree followed by the nearby river. Excellent choice for outdoorsy families.

For promotional outdoor sessions, no theme or additional decorations are provided. We will just be using the beauty  of nature. You’re welcome to wear or bring Christmas outfits and props.

*Sessions are rain or shine. It is recommended to make the best of a rainy session and bring umbrellas for photos in the rain! In the event of dangerous weather, sessions will be moved to the studio or rescheduled if availability exists per the photographer’s discretion.

Schedule Promo Sessions

Full Sessions.

Need more flexibility or want a dedicated full session for you and your family? You’re welcome to schedule a regularly priced package with more availability and options for locations. Below are popular locations for the Holiday Spirit in San Diego.

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.

Balboa Park decorates for their holiday event. Typically there are many hanging lights and a large tree at the Pavilion. Appointment availability will depend on events already scheduled at the park, so we can avoid the crazy packed conditions.

Sessions are available as regular packages. You pick the date and time. *Sessions are rain or shine.

Schedule a Full Session

Consultation and Planning included.

Holiday Promotional Pricing

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.