Christmas Family Session in New Hartford, CT | CT Family Photographer

Family

There’s something magical about Christmas tree farm sessions — the scent of evergreens in the air, the crisp chill that makes cheeks rosy, and the excitement of capturing a family in one of the happiest seasons of the year. This Christmas Family Session in New Hartford, CT was no exception.

I’ve worked with this family every year since their oldest son was born, and every time we meet, it feels like catching up with old friends. Watching families grow and change over the years is one of the best parts of being a photographer, and this session was such a special one.

Trying Out a New Christmas Tree Farm Location

One of the things I love most about this family is how adventurous they are. They’re always open to trying something new and trust me completely when I suggest experimenting with new ideas or locations. This year, we decided to try out a new Christmas tree farm for their Christmas Family Session in New Hartford, CT, and it turned out even better than I could have imagined.

There’s something so cozy and nostalgic about a Christmas tree farm — rows of pines dusted with snow, warm layers, and laughter echoing through the trees. The light was beautiful, the air was crisp, and the setting gave us the perfect mix of traditional and modern holiday portrait backdrops.

Because this family has worked with me for so many years, they’ve learned to expect a little bit of experimentation — and this year, they were game for all of it.

Trusting the Process (Even When It Feels Weird!)

Every once in a while, I get an idea during a session that I just know is going to be amazing — even if it sounds a little strange in the moment. During this Christmas Family Session in New Hartford, CT, I had one of those creative sparks.

I wanted to capture a shot that required me to lie flat on the ground, with the family gathered above me. It probably looked funny from the outside — me in my winter coat, lying on the frosty ground with my camera pointed up — but they trusted me, like they always do.

And sure enough, that image ended up being one of my absolute favorites from the session. The family’s laughter, the soft trees framing them from above, and the natural light all came together perfectly. Sometimes the best images happen when families are willing to let go, relax, and trust me to guide the process.

Keeping Kids Happy During Cold-Weather Sessions

Now, let’s talk about the part that every parent worries about — keeping little ones warm and happy during chilly holiday sessions. Trust me, I get it! I’ve done enough Christmas Family Sessions in New Hartford, CT to know that cold weather can sometimes be a challenge, especially for toddlers and preschoolers.

The good news is, I have plenty of strategies to make things go smoothly.

One of my top tips is to bring a blanket that you don’t mind having photographed. A neutral, cozy blanket not only adds texture to your portraits but also keeps the kids comfortable in between shots. Sometimes we even incorporate the blanket into the session — wrapping everyone up together for a sweet snuggle photo.

Another trick is to let me take the lead. I always design my sessions to keep kids moving — walking between trees, playing games, or tossing pinecones. The movement helps them stay warm and keeps their energy high, which means fewer complaints about the cold and more genuine smiles.

And because Connecticut weather can be unpredictable, I choose Christmas tree farm locations carefully. I always look for spots that offer a natural wind barrier, whether it’s a row of taller trees or a slope that helps block the breeze. That way, even on a blustery day, everyone stays more comfortable.

Session Day Tips for Parents

Here’s a small tip that can make a surprisingly big difference: when you’re driving to your session, try not to crank up the heat in the car too high. I know it’s tempting, but when kids go from a super warm car to chilly outdoor air, it feels like a shock to the system. Keeping the temperature moderate makes the transition easier — and then, after the session, you can blast the heat as much as you want on the way home!

I also move through my posing process quickly and efficiently. I’ve developed a system over the years that ensures we get all of the must-have shots — smiling family portraits, individual child photos, sibling moments, and parents together — without dragging things out too long. That means you’ll get a full, well-rounded gallery without spending hours in the cold.

Every family is different, and part of what I love about sessions like these is adapting to what your kids need in the moment. Some families need lots of breaks and silliness, while others power through with plenty of snuggles. Either way, I make sure we capture everything beautifully, no matter the temperature.

Why I Love Christmas Family Sessions

There’s a reason Christmas Family Sessions in New Hartford, CT are some of my most popular sessions every year. They combine everything families love most about the season — warmth, connection, laughter, and a little bit of holiday magic — all wrapped into a quick, meaningful experience.

Plus, these images make perfect holiday cards and gifts. Whether you hang them on your wall or print them for grandparents, they become treasured memories that bring you back to this season year after year.

This particular family reminded me just how special it is to capture these moments. Watching them interact, laugh, and snuggle together among the Christmas trees was such a highlight of my season. Their session perfectly captured what family photography is all about — connection, trust, and love.

Ready to Book Your Own Holiday Family Session?

If you’ve been thinking about booking your own Christmas Family Session in New Hartford, CT, now’s the perfect time. My Christmas tree farm sessions fill up quickly each year, and I always encourage families to join my email list so they can be the first to know when booking opens.

Whether it’s your first time working with me or you’re one of my returning families, I promise we’ll make it an experience you’ll look forward to every year — full of laughter, creativity, and beautiful portraits you’ll be proud to hang in your home.

Let’s capture your family’s holiday magic together this season.

Choosing Sharon as Your Canton CT Family Photographer

Why do you want Sharon Leger Photography as your Canton CT family photographer? First, you will be fully prepared for your session. This preparation includes detailed emails and videos before your session, in addition to a prep guide and questionnaire. Second, your session is thoughtfully strategized so that you get way more images than you ever thought possible. And finally, as a former elementary school teacher, Sharon is skilled at engaging and connecting with clients of all ages. Shy toddler? No problem! Cranky husband? I got you, mama! 

To learn more about Sharon Leger Photography, explore the website or follow Sharon on Instagram or Facebook. Please send inquiries through the website only. Please note that the website includes all relevant pricing and booking information.

If you are interested in booking Sharon Leger Photography as your Canton CT family photographer, please know that most spots book about six months out. Reach out today for current availability!

"I am so happy to have had Sharon capture photos of my family. She was so easy to work with, from scheduling to planning and coordinating, she could not have made the process more simple. She showed up on the day-of super prepared, with a whole wagon full of stuff just in case, including snacks for my kids! 

Kim

4 / 15

She worked so well with my children: she truly understands that children are going to get bored fast and she worked around their moods perfectly.

I love that she captured my kids' candid smiles, and not just the posed ones. To top it off, the final product was beyond my expectations and delivered in under a week! You can tell that she loves what she's doing and it shows in her work. She is truly a gem and I can't wait to work with her again as my children grow up!"

"We loved how simple and stress-free our son’s cake smash session was—we didn't need to worry about props or set-up. 

Alexis

When we showed up, Sharon had everything ready for us and we got to just be present in the moment. 

The portraits captured all the sweet little details we want to remember from his first birthday, and we were so happy to share them with our family. It was the perfect way to celebrate this milestone!" 

2 / 15

"Sharon was absolutely lovely to work with. I'm not the type of person who particularly enjoys photoshoots, but she is exceptionally adept at putting her clients at ease. Her studio is equal parts tranquil, tasteful and casual so that my wife and I were not in the least bit overwhelmed.

Kevin

Sharon anticipates every possible need and plans accordingly so that you don't have to. 

She is able to maintain the pace of her shoots, moving them forward judiciously without making the client feel rushed or unappreciated. She was completely down-to-earth and personable. It sounds cliché, but talking with her felt like catching up with an old friend – exactly we needed after the hectic experience of bringing our first child into the world. Sharon was more than worth the cost."

3 / 15

"Sharon was amazing to work with during our recent newborn session! She was very responsive with any questions I had before the session, and even offered advice on outfits for my older children. I borrowed a gorgeous dress from her client closet, which helped me feel more confident and comfortable for photos. 

Amanda

I was nervous about how the session would go with two young children and a newborn, but Sharon had everything so organized and prepared, that everything went flawlessly.

She was so calming and kind, and her studio felt so welcoming! The finished photos are all so beautiful, that I can't even come close to picking a favorite!"

4 / 15

"I was first introduced to Sharon in 2024 when I did a session of personality portraits, and I was instantly impressed. A few friends had used her before and raved about her work, and now I completely understand why! Sharon truly works magic behind the camera. She is incredibly organized, answering all questions and planning every detail ahead of time. 

Merissa

There’s never a need to stress about locations, directions, or even bad weather—she has a backup plan for everything!

One of my favorite parts of working with her is the dress consult to help plan outfits. She has such a great eye for style and helps put together looks that photograph beautifully."

5 / 15

"Sharon and Amy were fabulous! Right from the initial booking they made me feel special. I wore three beautiful dresses that Sharon already had available for me to wear from her client closet (I LOVE this feature!). We tried on several dresses until I found one that fit comfortably and I felt fabulous in.

Nicole

Amy & Sharon were great at communicating with me every step of the process.

Amy didn’t go overboard with the makeup, she made me look like myself but a little extra glam. An elevated version of myself. They were so fabulous and I would absolutely book them again. I 10/10 recommend Sharon and Amy for maternity or family photo sessions."

6 / 15

"Scheduling was super easy through her website and Sharon is very communicative. Sharon offers a dress consultation so you can go to her studio and try on multiple dresses that fit whatever theme you choose for your photo day.

Nicole

I've never seen a photographer offer a whole closet of dresses to choose from and this takes out ALL the stress of picking an outfit for pictures.

Another priceless offering when it comes to taking the stress out of family photos is hair and makeup (additional fee). I scheduled with Amy for a few hours before my shoot. Amy was so easy to talk to and did a fantastic job with the look I wanted. I'm already looking forward to another booking and have referred her to my friends and family. I cannot recommend Sharon and her team more."  
 

Kind Words

7 / 15

"We recently had our second family session with Sharon and 

Jenna

we were yet again blown away by the entire experience. 

From her expert outfit planning, to making the journey to join us at our beach for photos, Sharon created a relaxed, fun environment from beginning to end. The photos we received were beyond what I could have imagined! She captured our family perfectly!!"

8 / 15

"I recently had the pleasure of working with Sharon for a family beach session, and she was amazing from start to finish! Sharon's attention to detail and professionalism made the entire process seamless. Her empathetic and supportive nature made a world of difference, and the photos turned out beautifully. 

Alexis

I highly recommend Sharon to any mom looking for a talented and compassionate photographer, who takes the stress out of planning.

Her work is exceptional, and she truly cares about her clients. Thank you, Sharon, for capturing these moments for us!"

9 / 15

"Sharon is the absolute best! We worked with her for our maternity photos, newborn photos, and our cake smash one-year-old photos. Each time, Sharon is so professional and friendly, makes us feel right at home, and take the most beautiful photos. We are blown away every time! The client closet is awesome and Sharon really went the extra mile to find gowns that complimented me. 

Jen

We had so much fun taking all of these photos and can’t wait to work with her again!

We will cherish these photos forever."

10 / 15

"We did personality portraits for the second time with Sharon and they came out so well! 

Kelsey

The kids had such a blast and she really captured their unique personalities!"

11 / 15

"We did both our maternity and newborn photos with Sharon and she made each experience beyond amazing. I met Sharon first at our dress consultation and knew we were going to work well together. It’s incredible that she gives you access to some many dresses and really knows how to make a pregnant lady feel beautiful.

She made my husband (who admittedly did not want to take the pictures) feel so comfortable, got him laughing and even looking forward to the newborn shoot.

Then, at the newborn shoot Sharon was so patient with us (it was our first trip out) she again made me feel so beautiful in her huge selection of dresses and was so good and rocking out baby boy to sleep."

Alexa

12 / 15

"Stop reading reviews and just book your session with Sharon Leger Photography right now. Sharon has been there for my family even before we were an official family. She poetically captured our engagement, maternity and our newborn’s first photos.

I couldn’t imagine trusting anyone else with these precious moments.

I am not an easy client. I am nervous, unsure of myself and overly aware of every physical flaw (especially postpartum). Sharon made me feel comfortable and beautiful every step of the way. We love Sharon Leger Photography, especially the woman behind the lens! Thank you for everything, Sharon!"

Dawn

13 / 15

"Sharon is an absolute gem! It has been 3.5 years since I found her and since then she has captured the most adorable and perfect pictures of my two sons and our family.

From newborn sessions, cake smashes and family photos, not one detail has ever been overlooked. Her process is seamless and she makes everything so accessible and easy.

She offers so many options for photo opportunities and has perfected a style that really is timeless! She was so wonderful with each of my children when they were newborns, that it made the experience so worth it! Couldn’t recommend enough!"

Melissa

14 / 15

"It’s hard for me to find the perfect words to describe what Sharon has given me.

I reached out to her when I was thinking about doing maternity photos, and she quickly convinced me that I would not regret it. She was right. Not only do I not regret my maternity photos but I actually love everything about them. Every time I look at them, all of those amazing feelings I felt while I was pregnant come right back as if I’m still in the moment. They are something I will cherish forever."

Kimberly

15 / 15

Kind Words

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