Running from the Law: Christmas Card Photo Shoot

Tuesday, January 14, 2014

Christmas Card Photo Shoot

I just realized I never posted the pictures from our little Christmas card photo session back in December. We had to reschedule once due to all the snow and ended up picking a day that was bitter cold, so we had to take turns running back inside and warming up in between shots.  Caroline (from A Better Story Photography) was patient with us, as always, and braved the elements to make sure we got some great shots for our Christmas card this year.  She even rushed the processing so I could order my Christmas cards right away.  Bless your heart, Caroline - thanks again for going above and beyond.  

We started off at home, since I wanted a family photo of us all with the dogs, but they were less than cooperative and Mac was very confused about what the hell was going on. 
It's funny and not anywhere close to perfect, but I love this photo below.  Both dogs refused to look at the camera and Mac is totally scowling, but I think it's hilarious.  This is life!  
After that flopped, we decided to head into town to our local Farmers Market, which they had set up as a tree lot and Christmas shop.  This is where we got our tree and we spend a lot of time (and money) here, so it's a special little place to us.  
We got a few cute shots and then headed inside where it was nice and warm.  We checked out all the Christmas goodies - ornaments, decorations, baked goods, flowers, plants, candies, lights, etc. 
And then back outside quickly to get a couple family shots in the trees.  Of course, Mac was less than thrilled to be there and didn't want anything to do with smiling or looking at the camera.  I'm honestly shocked that the photos turned out as well as they did, with him being so sour and cranky that day.  Excellent job, Caroline!  
One more quick stop inside to warm up.  I had to bribe Mac with a giant sugar cookie.  That finally made him smile!  And there's the money shot...this photo made the front of the Christmas card!  Pure happiness! 
We ended up heading back home to see if we could get one or two more good shots of the little guy.  He was still a bit fussy, but excited to get close to the Christmas tree and play with the ornaments that he'd been eyeing.  :)  I love the mischievous twinkle in his eyes in these photos.  Like he's just waiting for him moment to take down the entire tree.  
All in all, I'm thrilled with the photos!  They are very "us" right now and I'm so glad we had a chance to work with Caroline one more time before she moves to Texas (cue tear).  If anyone in the Houston area is looking for a family photographer, she's your gal!  Best of luck to you, Caroline.


Photos: A Better Story Photography
Outfits styled by: Dacy of Mindful Closet (I have an entire post on this to come)

32 comments:

  1. so great...and very real life! he's so precious!

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  2. Such fab photos!! I love them. He is such a cutie!! You all are!

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  3. You are gorgeous, Mama!!! You're pictures are always so good, slightly jealous! :)

    xo
    Megan
    Hello Newlywed Life Blog

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  4. The money shot is priceless!!! I love all of these...you all look beautiful!

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  5. These photos are just gorgeous! I love how they seem to capture you in your element - so natural. And how cute are you and that outfit?!?!

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  6. These are great! Love the one with him and the cookie. And I love your outfit, that vest is amazing!

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  7. Oh my gosh, these are the most creative and beautiful Christmas pics I've seen!! What a great idea!! Mac looks so darn cute in all of them. :)

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  8. You ended up with some great pictures! I love his sweater, and you look fabulous in your outfit! Gorgeous pups even if they refused to look at the camera...I've got a pair who won't look at a camera too =)

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  9. Loved the whole thing, these are all such great photos! I would be sad she's moving, too. She's amazing. Loved your Christmas card :)

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  10. Such a beautiful family! I love how casual and happy everyone is...even your dogs!

    Best,
    Laura

    www.lauradrodesigns.blogspot.com

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  11. Beautiful family, beautiful pictures.

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  12. Sara, these are all so GOOD! I adore the "real life" shots.

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  13. Beautiful family photos! And how fun to do them at a tree lot! Liam has that same sweater, which is so adorable!

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  14. Such beautiful photos, Sara! Such a great idea to do it at a tree lot!

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  15. Love the pics! Can't wait to see your post on styling, was going to ask you where you bought that beautiful cream colored sweater!

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  16. LOVE the pics, they turned out beautifully. The "real life" shots are my fav. And your outfit is adorable!

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  17. So cute! Love that she tagged along with you guys and got pictures in your home. Love the ones with the cookie and the one of Mac with the star. Too precious!

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  18. Ahh...nothing like trying to smile your way through a photo shoot with a fussy baby! These came out so well though...Mac did a great job, as did Caroline. One of my favorites is the one with you and Mac checking out a tree with the other tree in the foreground. So cute!
    Amy @ http://www.thegiftedgabber.com/

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  19. As always, beautiful family = beautiful photos!! Mac is just so handsome. That is all. :-)

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  20. I have to agree - that shot is hilarious with both dogs looking to the side! these are gorgeous. beautiful family Sara.

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  21. What a great idea for a photo shoot! I love that it's your neighborhood and gave you lots of Christmas-y backdrops. And you got some great pictures. He's such a cutie!

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  22. LOVE the photos. The "real life" photo with the dogs not paying attention is my favorite!

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  23. Your photos came out beautifully!!! That Farmers Market looks awesome!! What a perfect setup. My favs have to be the photos with the tree towards the end. Mac has pure joy...and mischief in his eyes!

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  24. Oh my GOSH!!!! I'm not exaggerating when I say these are the BEST pictures I've ever seen!!! Such sweet, sweet memories...now do you care if I steal this idea next year?!? ;)

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  25. Fantastic pics! And I love Mac's little sweater. He is such a charmer! :)

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  26. Great choice for photo location! Love them all!

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  27. I love the Kirkwood Farmer's Market--especially when they have their pumpkin patch in the fall! Super cute photos.

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  28. I love these photos- so Christmas-y! I keep meaning to get some professional photos taken of our family, like these (are you ever in Denver? I would totally hire you to do it!).

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