Christmas Bow Mini Session with Pets

Family Christmas Photo Ideas

This wasn’t a client session… it was just my kids and our pets getting festive at home. But I loved it so much that I couldn’t resist sharing. Instead of stiff outfits and traditional setups, we went with something playful: ribbon bows on the kids’ and pets’ heads and glowing Christmas tree lights in the background, and yes… every single pet joining the fun.

The Bows Made It

The bows were all the kids needed to instantly turn this into a memorable holiday portrait session. They laughed, they posed, and they made it their own, which is exactly what I want for my clients too.

Holiday Photos For Kids And Pets

Our dog, Dante, our bearded dragon, Zilla, and even our snake, Professor Snape, joined the party. (The kids were delighted.) Including pets makes sessions feel authentic because for most families, pets are just as much a part of the story as siblings. We always enjoy buying all of our pets little Christmas presents and the kids love opening them just as much as opening their own presents on Christmas morning.

Why I Love Sessions Like This

Even though this was a personal project, it captures what I love about holiday photography: pretty lights, lots of personality, and zero pressure to be perfect. Sometimes the most unforgettable family photos come from leaning into what feels fun, not what feels “picture perfect.

If you’re looking for Christmas photos in Austin you can learn more about that here!