Xmas PJ Minis 2022 — Kelli Barnette Photography

pj minis 2022

Here’s what you can expect from your PJ mini session with me.

plan to arrive early : mini sessions go QUICK! They are booked back-to-back without wiggle room in between. When you arrive early we can start our session according to schedule and maximize the time we have together! PJ Sessions are designed for kids only (space wise) but if needed for the younger ones mom/dad can jump in if you’re willing! Of course I’ll try and get a shot of your little(s) looking at me, but I also want to capture moments of their personality & excitement about Christmas.
come with tools in your pocket : does your little one like when you sing certain songs? Do they laugh if you fake sneeze? (Yes, you read that right… mine find it particularly hilarious!). Feel free to play music on your phone, bring toys that make noise. We can also have you step in and tickle and step right out just as fast.
your proof gallery : within 2-3 weeks of your session you will receive your digital gallery for viewing & selecting your favorite images. Mini sessions include 8 images from a proof gallery; however, you are always welcome to purchase additional images! I will do my best to get proofs out to you quickly. Unfortunately my Dad ended up having to do back surgery and we will be gone Thanksgiving week. I will be out of office 11/22-11/26 and will return to work on 11/27.

pack a bag of essentials : wipes, a toy that makes noise if that tends to make them smile or interact, possibly a snack for following our session. (I normally would encourage snacks in between but the sessions will go so fast with only 15 minutes & I have no choice but to stay on time to be fair to all of the families!). If you think a treat throughout is imperative for your little, mini marshmallows have been a go-to for me as they don’t leave residue on their hands/face/clothes & are eaten fairly quickly. NO chocolate is allowed in the studio with all of the white fabrics.

added guests : PJ mini sessions are for children only (if your littles are a bit younger, nervous & need some support, we can try have Mom/Dad jump in. These sessions are short & sweet & are best for kiddos!
avoid ouchies : Try to avoid bumps, bruises, and scratches leading up to your session. I understand accidents happen, so if your little one gets hurt please don’t hesitate to reach out & we can talk it over beforehand.
drive time : be sure to allow plenty of time for the commute to the studio. Unfortunately if you are late it takes away from the session duration. To be fair to all of the families that have booked, I will have to stay on schedule. If you have any questions about the directions to our location, feel free to shoot me an e-mail or give me a call & we’ll discuss!
preparing the littles : Getting your kiddos excited beforehand is so important! Assure them that Mrs. Kelli just wants to have fun while taking some photos—they may even hear me make a few funny noises, play peek-a-boo, or attempt to sing a song.
relax : Sometimes as parents we get frustrated when the littles don’t participate as we hope. It will happen that they may not want to sit/stand with their hands down & the perfect smile, and it is OK! I promise sometimes these are the best photos I capture because we are documenting your child exactly who they are at this stage. (& it’s much better than red noses & teary eyes… am I right?!)

Here are a few wardrobe tips to consider when styling your PJ session:

basics : These are designed for PJs but if you prefer Christmas best, that works too! These are for you, so do what makes your heart happy! I left the background very classic/timeless with muted colors so that the littles would stand out. Formal Christmas wear, Christmas PJs, or flannel dresses/button downs I think would all look great for this one!
colors : Class background means that any of the typical Christmas colors should look beautiful this year! I think you could totally go Red/Green, Plaid, or go simple with neutrals that have texture.
barefoot : If your kiddos are doing Christmas PJs, barefoot may be the perfect option—I have no problem with bare feet!
distractions: For Kids: Remove any temporary tattoos/stickers etc. that you may not want in their photos forever.
outfit changes: Unfortunately, the length of mini sessions just doesn’t allot for changing clothes.

Here are a few sick policy reminders:

illness in the family : If you, your spouse, or any of your children (people that live in your home) have been sick the week of our session please reach out. As with any school policy, the child needs to be symptom free for at least 24hrs (without meds) to be able to participate in the mini session. Because these minis are not dependent on anyone extra (like Santa), I can reschedule your mini!
vulnerable populations : Due to having multiple babies under the age of one, our sessions being indoors, and in respect to my own family (my studio being in my home) if someone arrives to their session sick, I will have to end the session and send you home.
retainer : if you and your family are sick at the time of your mini session, the retainer is non-refundable but transferrable for up to 1 year from our session. This means that your retainer fee would be good towards any future session through 11/19/2023. As a mom, I understand it happens and want to make sure you feel you have plenty of time to reschedule a session at a time that you will still be excited about. I also have the option to offer a PJ mini reschedule after Thanksgiving if needed. Please please please reschedule if you are sick!