2024 Session Highlights:

• 16 returning families + 24 new families
• Fully booked calendar with a growing waitlist
• Coordinated outfits, festive jammies, and sweet sibling moments
• Pets in bowties (yes, please!)
• Thoughtful client gifts (polaroid from your session with a frame ornament included!) and warm holiday vibes all around

Now that the new year has settled in, I’ve finally had a moment to reflect on the beautiful whirlwind that was December — and more specifically, my 2024 Christmas Mini Sessions.

This year’s minis were extra meaningful, not just because of the holiday magic, but because of what was happening behind the scenes: I was organizing it all while juggling an 8-month-old, a newly two-year-old, and — just to make things interesting — moving into a new home that same week. It was wild, emotional, chaotic at times… and completely worth it.

40 Families — One Very Full Heart

I was blown away by the response this year. We welcomed 16 returning families and 24 brand new ones for these minis — and every single session was such a gift to me. Families came from all over Douglas County: Glendale, Myrtle Creek, Roseburg, and Oakland! Watching families grow year after year, seeing new little faces, and reconnecting with past clients is what makes this tradition so special. I truly hope to see every one of you again next Christmas season.

2024 ended up being quite the whirlwind despite my husband and I promising ourselves a slower season of life. We bought our second home, wrangled a newly turned two year old, an eight month old, and yes…I still said yes to studio Christmas minis. And I’m so glad I did.

These Christmas mini sessions in Roseburg were packed with festive magic: sparkling lights, gigling little ones, matching jammies, and families making memories in front of the camera (because photos can be quick and fun!) So many of you came back from the year before, and it was such a joy to see how your kiddos have grown. I also got to meet many new faces, and I hope you’ll stick around. Being part of your holiday traditions mean the world to me!

While I normally shoot outdoors, these holiday minis were hosted indoors. They were short, sweet, and just the right amount of festive. They’re made especially for families wanting a fun and low-stress way to capture the season: quick enough for busy little ones, but still full of personality and warmth.

Highlights

This year’s photos were some of my favorite’s yet! We had everything from baby’s first Christmas to big kid giggles and those sweet in between moments where everyone forgets the camera is even there. The energy was fun and relaxed, and the images we captured reflect that.

2024 Gifts for Clients

As a little thank-you, I sent each family home with a custom ornament featuring a polaroid from their session. It was such a joy to see your reactions, and I hope it becomes a keepsake you hang on your tree for years to come.

Want in Next Year?

These Christmas minis tend to book up fast and I always open booking early for returning families. It’s one of my favorite parts of this work: getting to see your little ones grow, watching your family change year to year, and building a real connection over time.

As a thank you, returning families always get to book at the previous year’s pricing, even as my experience grows and gear upgrades. It’s just one small way I try to honor the trust you’ve given me and the relationship we’ve built. Coming back each year means more than I can say, and I’m so grateful to be a tiny part of your holiday traditions.

If you’d like to be the first to know when 2025 minis go live, be sure to join the email list or follow along on Facebook. I can’t wait to do it all again!

Wishing you a peaceful, joy-filled 2025!

McKenzie Strong Photo is the owner of Studio Thirteen, her privately owned downtown studio — a warm, welcoming space designed for comfort, creativity, and timeless imagery.