A cozy, film-inspired Santa mini-session in Fort Collins, Co — no mall lines, no meltdowns, just the kind of magic you'll want printed, framed, and passed down.
Santa Experience
Your little ones deserve more than a rushed photo on Santa's lap at the mall (you know the one — fluorescent lighting, a line of cranky toddlers, and a Santa who looks like he'd rather be anywhere else).
This Santa mini session in Fort Collins, CO is a one-on-one experience where your children can actually visit with Santa, share their Christmas wishes, and soak in the magic of the season — while I capture every genuine smile, wide-eyed reaction, and sweet moment in between. The whole family is welcome to jump in for photos too.
This is a one-day-only event on
Saturday, November 7, 2026 at
Shelley Schaffer Photography in Fort Collins, CO. Spots are limited and go fast — so if you're reading this and sessions are still available, that's your sign. Grab your time slot now (before your friend's kid takes the last one).
What to Expect at Your Santa Mini Session Day at Shelley Schaffer Photography
They are only this
little once
The Little Details
I'm so looking forward to creating these Christmas portraits for your family. To keep the experience intentional for everyone, here are the essential details for our studio day.
Tax : Please note that all images and collections purchased after your session are subject to Colorado sales tax.
when
Saturday, Novemeber 7th, 2026
Where
Shelley Schaffer Photo Studio
Fort Collins, CO
What
Creating magical memories for your children and having your Christmas card done prior to December? Priceless
why
- Personalized visit with Santa Greg
- Access to the beautifully styled Santa set
- Online gallery from which to choose images delivered before Thanksgiving
- Download rights and print release included with purchased images
Session fee
195
The portraits captured pure Christmas magic...
"I was so nervous about how my kids would do meeting Santa, but the whole session was so beautifully slow and gentle that they instantly relaxed into just being themselves.
The portraits captured pure Christmas magic — their truest, most honest spirits."
-Megan
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This Santa mini session event will take place right here in my Fort Collins studio, styled with a beautiful white Christmas set — think soft, timeless, straight-out-of-a-storybook. And because we're indoors, this one happens rain or shine (or snow, this is Colorado after all) — no weather-related meltdowns here.
Santa Greg isn't your average mall Santa. He's a member of the Real Bearded Santa's Guild and a graduate of Santa School (yes, that's a real thing, and yes, he takes it seriously) — with years of experience making kids believe.
Whether your child runs straight into his arms or needs a few minutes to warm up, Santa Greg knows exactly how to meet them where they are — patient, warm, zero pressure.
Each family gets 5-8 minutes in a private setting with Santa Greg. We'll capture candid moments, sweet interactions, and posed portraits of your kids with Santa, plus the whole family if you'd like.
A Magical Santa Photo Experience for Your Family
After your session, I'll edit and deliver your online gallery with 8+ high-resolution digital images from which to choose your images. You'll also have the option to upgrade to the full gallery.
Step 5: Enjoy Your Gallery
After booking, you'll receive a confirmation email with everything you need to know — when to arrive, and a few tips to help your little ones feel excited (not overwhelmed) about meeting Santa. I will also be sending a complete guide in mid October.
Step 4: Get Ready for Session Day
Step 3: Sign Your Contract and Pay Your Invoice
Your spot is not officially reserved until your contract is signed and your $195 session fee is paid in full — both happen at the time of booking. Please complete both right away so you don't lose your time to another family.
How to Book:
Step 2: Select Your Time Slot
Browse the available time slots and choose the one that works best for your family. Sessions are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and these spots fill up fast.
Your Santa mini session takes place on Saturday, November 7, 2026 at Shelley Schaffer Photography in Fort Collins, CO. Each session is 5-8 minutes with Santa, and the session fee is $195.
This includes:
✔ Personalized visit with Santa Greg
✔ Access to the beautifully styled Santa set
✔ Online gallery delivered before Thanksgiving
✔ Download rights and print release included with purchased images
Step 1: The Details
How does pricing work?
The session fee is $195 and reserves your time with Santa. Digital images are purchased separately after your session.
1 image: $195
3 images: $295
Full gallery: $375
Why do it this way?
No guessing what you're paying for. You'll see your full gallery, then choose the collection that actually fits your family.
How long is the session?
Each session lasts 5-8 minutes, long enough for your child to settle in and truly connect with Santa, short enough to keep the whole experience fun instead of fussy.
What should we wear?
I've got you covered with a holiday style guide full of color suggestions, outfit ideas, and shoppable links to my favorite pieces — from matching PJs to something dressier, you'll have everything you need to make getting ready simple."
What happens if my child cries?
Totally normal! Meeting Santa can feel like a lot for little ones, and we never push it. Our approach is gentle and flexible — sometimes just being close to Santa is plenty.
Santa Greg is an absolute pro. We've worked together and know all the little tricks that help kids warm up. Even so, we can't promise smiles, and no child is ever forced to sit with him.
Pro Tip: Let go of the idea of a "perfect" moment. These photos are about capturing a memory and a milestone — not perfection. Someday you'll look back and smile, whether it's a tearful pout this year or a big grin next.
Can we take a family photo, too?
Absolutely! You've already wrangled everyone into their outfits and out the door — that's half the battle — so it's the perfect chance to knock out your holiday card photo while you're at it.
If you've added the $75 family portrait, we'll capture that first, before Santa makes his entrance. Quick, classic, and includes two pose variations.
Do we need to bring anything?
Just show up with your kiddo dressed and ready — hair done, outfit set, all the prep taken care of beforehand. If they've got a favorite lovey or comfort item, toss it in your bag just in case.
When will our photos be ready?
You'll have your gallery in hand by Thanksgiving — plenty of time to pick your favorites, download your images, and get those holiday cards out the door.
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