Christmas has always been such a magical time here at Kate McCord Photography, and every year, I pour my heart into making the holiday photo experience something special for every family that walks through my doors.
I know how it feels to be a parent during the holiday season… your to-do list is never-ending—shopping, decorating, school events, family gatherings—and somewhere in there, you’re also trying to make real memories and capture beautiful photos of your kids. It’s a lot.
That’s why I design my Christmas sessions with real families in mind. Especially the busy ones. The ones with toddlers who may or may not want to sit still… the ones with shy kiddos who aren’t sure about Santa at first… and the ones who just need a quick, low-stress way to get adorable holiday photos without standing in line at the mall or fighting for one good shot in bad lighting.
I totally get the nervousness that comes with booking a short session—especially if you’re thinking:
“Will my kids even cooperate for something this fast?”
It’s probably the most common worry I hear. But let me ease your mind… Going into my 6th year offering holiday sessions, I have never had a family walk away without a full gallery to swoon over. Never. Even the wiggly kids. Even the tearful ones. Even the ones who were “absolutely not” getting on Santa’s lap… until they did (or we got creative!).
Here’s what you can expect when you book a Christmas session with me:
✨ No Crowds or Long Waits
Your time slot is yours. No standing in line, no chaos. Just your family and Santa (or just me, depending on your session type).
✨ A Welcoming, Kid-Friendly Space
My goal is always to create an environment where your kids feel comfortable and can just be themselves.
✨ A Photographer Who Knows Kids
As a mom of three and someone who does this year after year—I’ve got all the tricks, patience, and goofy jokes to make the magic happen fast.
✨ Quick Turnaround for Holiday Cards & Gifts
I know you’re going to want these back quickly, and I’ve built my workflow to make that happen. I stop taking on Christmas sessions after the first week of December so that you'll have your photos in plenty of time to enjoy for the holiday season.
✨ A Full-Service Experience
From outfit tips to professional print options—I’ve got you covered from start to finish.
Every year, I look for new ways to make this experience even better. Because these photos aren’t just for this year’s Christmas cards… they’re little time capsules of joy, wonder, and your kids exactly as they are right now.
So, if you’re looking for a Central PA photographer who loves kids, understands the holiday chaos, and will make sure you walk away with photos you love… I’m your girl. Let’s make some Christmas magic together!
Click the session name to learn more & book
✔ location: kate mccord photography studio
✔ child only sessions
✔ 10 minutes
november 15, 2025
Get ready for the coziest, cutest Christmas PJ Minis! Picture your little ones all snuggled up in their festive jammies, "enjoying" cookies and hot cocoa in bed, with their faces lighting up with excitement as they count down the days until Christmas. These sessions are all about capturing the magic of the holidays—the giggles, the wonder, and those precious moments before the big day. It's the perfect way to freeze these sweet memories in time and make the season extra special! 🎄
Get ready for the most joyful and heartwarming Studio Holiday Minis! 🎄✨ With two stunning holiday backdrops to choose from, these sessions are all about celebrating family, connection, and the magic this season brings.
We’ll focus on capturing snuggles, laughs, and those genuine moments of togetherness that make the holidays feel so special. Whether it’s cozy cuddles with your kiddos, sweet sibling smiles, or full family portraits that you’ll want to hang on your wall for years to come—these sessions are designed to freeze those memories in the most beautiful way.
With classic holiday styling and a relaxed, fun atmosphere, your only job is to show up and love on your people. I’ll take care of the rest!
2025 backdrops are shown in the first two images. Remaining images are from past year's.
$175
✔ location: kate mccord photography studios - etters, pa
✔ 10 minute sessions
✔ various packages available
multiple dates in november & december
$350
✔ location: kate mccord photography studio
✔ 10 minute sessions with 8 edited digital images
✔ personalized letter mailed to your home from santa ahead of session
✔ custom christmas cookie from wesley made sweets
✔ 1:1 time with santa clause
✔ name on the nice list!
december 6, 2025
Step into the magic with The Full Santa Experience at Kate McCord Photography! 🎅✨
This isn’t your typical quick photo op—this is a full, storybook moment your kids will remember for years. From finding their name on Santa’s Nice List to sharing their wish list and receiving a little keepsake from the big guy himself, every detail is designed to make your child feel special.
We’ll capture all the wonder, giggles, and sweet interactions while giving you beautiful, frame-worthy images to cherish long after the holidays are over. This is Christmas magic… with heart, with story, and with photos that truly feel like you.
$129
✔ location: kate mccord photography studio
✔ 5 minute sessions with 3 edited digital images
december 6, 2025
Keep it short, sweet, and full of holiday fun with Santa’s Lap Minis – the 5-Minute Smile with Santa! 🎅✨
Perfect for families who just want a few quick, adorable photos of their kids with Santa—no long lines, no stress, just simple holiday magic. Your child will hop on Santa’s lap (or stand nearby if they prefer), share a quick smile or wave, and I’ll capture it all in those 5 festive minutes.
This is the perfect option for getting that classic Santa photo for your Christmas card… fast, easy, and joyful!
$295
✔ location: christmas tree farm - etters area
✔ 10 minute sessions
✔ 6 edited high resolution digital images
November 8 & 9, 2025
Get ready for all the cozy, festive vibes with Christmas Tree Farm Minis! 🎄✨
There’s just something extra special about being surrounded by rows of evergreen trees, bundled up in your favorite scarves and sweaters, with the crisp winter air making cheeks a little rosy. These sessions are perfect for capturing playful family moments, snuggles, and those classic holiday smiles.
Whether you’re dreaming of the perfect photo for your Christmas card or just want to freeze this sweet season of life, Christmas Tree Farm Minis are the perfect mix of fun and timeless holiday charm.
$295
✔ location: Historic shady lane - manchester, pa
✔ 10 minute sessions
✔ 6 edited high resolution digital images
November 29 & 30, 2025
Step into the magic of the season with Holidays at Historic Shady Lane! 🎄✨
This stunning historic greenhouse setting is full of charm and character—think twinkling lights, lush greenery, and the perfect touch of vintage holiday magic. It’s one of my favorite backdrops for capturing timeless family portraits that feel both festive and elegant.
Whether you’re dressing up for a formal holiday look or keeping it cozy and casual, Holidays at Historic Shady Lane offers a dreamy space for snuggles, smiles, and all the connection that makes this season so special.
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Thanks for stopping by! My studio is located off of I-83 in York Haven, PA (York County). You can reach me by filling out the form below and I will send you a follow-up email within 24 hours. I look forward to speaking with you!
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family & Motherhood photographer serving South central pennsylvania - mechanicsburg - harrisburg - york - lancaster - camp hill
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