Holiday Family Photo Shoot at a NJ Christmas Tree Farm

I’ve always loved the idea of doing Christmas pictures at a tree farm, and this year I finally made it happen when NJ-based photographer Katy Firstov reached out to me about doing a holiday family mini session. Katy did such a fantastic job at wrangling my four kids (two out of three at any given time were being very difficult, and it was not just because it was cold and windy). She managed to make things look magical even though there were some decidedly not-so-magical moments, which is the mark of a good photographer in my opinion. I don’t know about you, but I truly appreciate having a photographer who will deliver the highlights – because these family photos will be something we cherish years from now and I only want to see the happy faces.

I really hoped to focus on getting single shots of the kids this year, and Katy delivered. I loved how she captured their adorable little faces and the essence of their individual personalities (difficult as they were being during the shoot). The final photos were a mix of candid and posed, which I always request up front before engaging with a photographer whom I’ve never worked with before.

Anne Ellen Christmas Tree Farm

I have lived in central New Jersey for over eight years now and didn’t realize this gem of a place, Anne Ellen Christmas Tree Farm, existed nearby. This farm has over 50,000 trees planted right in their fields spanning 50 acres, so you can make it a family tradition of picking out and cutting down your very own, perfect Christmas tree.

What to Wear for a Holiday Photo Shoot at a Christmas Tree Farm

Some families dress up, some wear cozy layers, some in bright colors, others in neutrals. Ugly Christmas sweaters are also a fun option for a photo shoot at a Christmas tree farm! But you all know me. I love any and every excuse to dress up. It instantly cheers me up, regardless of the occasion, regardless of the venue. And there's no reason not to take advantage of a little photo opp, in your holiday finest. I promise, sometimes just getting dressed up and documenting it in a photo, makes a world of a difference for your mood – not to mention, it certainly elevates the obligatory holiday family photo.

Speaking of which, I swear I manifested this gorgeous red wool cape and this red gown – I went thrifting two weeks before, with the hopes that I would find something festive to wear for this holiday shoot. When I pulled this no-label gown off the rack, I instantly knew I had found her. And it fit like a glove. Best of all? She was $1!!

So go into that closet of yours, pull out the first special item that you haven't worn in a while, and find a reason to don it! Then, go and build each family members’ outfit around yours. And remember, bonus points for jewelry. Even more bonus points for a swipe of lipstick.