The Magical Santa Experience is returning for its 3rd year. | Palm Beach County Family Photographer

The Magical Santa Experience is coming back for its 3rd year with a different look! 

This is a true childhood memory you won't want to miss. It's fun (mostly) for you as parents to watch it all unfold. Just never know how your little ones will react when they see Santa walking in - some are super shy, some are brave and bold, a few do cry and some were undoubtedly curious in pure wonder.


Why wait in long lines at the mall only to sit with Santa for a minute? Get it done early! You'll have plenty of time to complete your holiday cards without the stress. Come in during your scheduled appointment without the rush and let the magic unfold. Bring your Christmas wish list, tell Santa your secrets, bring your favorite holiday book, throw some snow, share some milk and cookies and we'll be sure to laugh a lot!

This year's look will have a white, simplistic, modern, sort of boho-ish feel. For styling, you may choose to wear a casual outfit, holiday pj's or dress it up a bit. I do love burgundy/red wine colors, navy, creams and tans-an overall neutral color scheme, but just ONE outfit, please. No outfit changes will be allowed. For holiday inspiration, visit my Pinterest board here: https://www.pinterest.com/cmlin/2017-holiday-styling/

This year - if you choose - I will include a lifestyle family image. This portion will only be a couple of minutes of shooting - so be ready for the perfectly imperfect. I shoot candidly and am looking for your family bond and love - you're not always looking at the camera. 

PLEASE READ IN ITS ENTIRETY:

Date: Saturday, November 11, 2017 from 1:00 - 4:00pm. These are up to 20 minute sessions. 

Where: The Home Studio in Wellington, FL. Details will be given once booked. Please be a few minutes early and definitely on time for your session as Santa is on a tight schedule and must return to the North Pole!

There are 7 time slots available. They fill up very quickly, so don't hesitate!

1:00-1:20pm, 1:25-1:45pm, 1:50-2:10pm, 2:20-2:40pm, 2:45-3:05pm, 3:10-3:30pm, 3:35-3:55pm. To reserve your time slot, please email your best contact information including phone number to christina@christinalinphotography.com. You may use the "Contact" tab as well. Invoices will be sent to your email via Square payment processing.

**UPDATE 10/18/17: These sessions are officially SOLD OUT. Scroll down for Holiday Minis without Santa.

*If you are interested in The Magical Santa Experience, I have started a waiting list for possibly another date. Serious inquiries only to christina@christinalinphotography.com.

*Bonus this year - 2 extra digital images and a lifestyle family image together!*

Includes: 12 digital images via digital download | Children only for the Santa Experience (maximum of 3) followed by your family. Please allow up to 2 weeks for your final gallery. All edited images are chosen by the photographer. You will be notified as soon as your gallery is ready. 

Total: $260.00. A non-refundable $75 deposit is required within 24 hours of reserving your spot. If deposit is not paid, the time slot will be given to the next client. The remaining balance is due no later than Friday, November 3, 2017. 

To see some images from the 2016 Magical Santa Experience, please follow the link: http://www.christinalinphotography.com/the-magical-santa-experience/

HOLIDAY MINI SESSIONS (without Santa)

 Sunday, November 12, 2017 from 1:00-4:30pm.

HOLIDAY MINIS ARE NOW SOLD OUT.

*If you are interested in Holiday Minis, I have started a waiting list for possibly another date. Serious inquiries only to christina@christinalinphotography.com.

This is a 20 minute session. Two (2) outfits allowed for children only, but not a must. Quick changes are a must! I recommend pj's for one outfit - just too cute not to. One (1) family image is also included in these minis (if you choose). This is a perfect session for you if you are truly concerned with your child crying or just not being able to handle Santa well. 

Includes: 12 digital images. Please allow up to 2 weeks for your final gallery. All edited images are chosen by the photographer. You will be notified as soon as your gallery is ready. 

Total: $250.00 for Holiday Mini without Santa. A non-refundable $75 deposit is required within 24 hours of reserving your spot. If deposit is not paid, the time slot will be given to the next client. The remaining balance is due no later than Friday, November 3, 2017. 

Below is an example of the 2017 Holiday set up...

 

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Headshots | Personal Branding Sessions | Downtown West Palm Beach Lifestyle & Portrait Photographer

Hi friends!

I've been a little MIA with blogging. Have worked the schedule to spend some beloved time with my three kiddos this summer. 2 of the 3 still want me around. My oldest only seems to want me around when he needs hair products, food or money. We started off in June completing some big home projects-lots of rain! In July, we had family visit followed by a getaway with just us-lots of pool and beach time! Here we are in August. It's true what my parents always say-time moves so much faster as you get older. I feel super blessed for these moments, but will not lie...some days I had to lock myself in a bathroom for a few, go to a 5:30am Orange Theory class, take a drive or a shopping trip alone in the evening. Summer 2017-it's been great, but have to say goodbye next week! 

Time to get back on track and start some projects. First up. Headshots and Personal Branding sessions!

Are you an iPhone photo junkie that believes your selfie suffices for a professional shot? Think again-lol! Are you in search of a job? Do you own a business, manage a website? Do your images represent your brand? Have you taken the time to hire a professional photographer to capture your best? I'm rarely on LinkedIn, however over the last couple of weeks I have been navigating through. One of the first things I noticed were the lack of professional profile pictures. 

You may ask. Why are professional headshot/personal branding images so important in this digital world we live in? Here's why...

You only get ONE chance to make a first impression. When it comes to your online presence, you are relying heavily on your profile photo for this impression. It helps to define who you are and how you want to be perceived by others. This applies especially on your LinkedIn profile photo as well as all of your other social media platforms and business website. In this day, whether you're a senior in high school, a model, an actor/actress, chef, architect, interior designer, executive, attorney, nurse, architect, doctor, the list goes on - just about everyone needs a professional headshot!

If I happen to be speaking to you-let's collaborate and do this! These short and painless sessions (I promise) will be happening on Thursday, August 24 from 1-3pm and Saturday, August 26 from 1-3pm at the studio. Help me understand your profession or brand and let's equate it with some kick a-- images! These are 20 minute, solo portrait, natural light, in studio sessions. What does it include? Pre-consultation-email or phone conversation to understand your profession/brand, discuss wardrobe/styling, 1 outfit, photography time, post production (clean edits) to make you look your very best, 2 final digital images each in color and black/white delivered via digital download. Please allow up to 14 business days for final edits. Total investment is $165. To book or if you are looking for a longer, more detailed session with outfit changes, please contact me for more information at christina@christinalinphotography.com. If you'd rather chat live, call 561.951.5024.

Xx,

Christina

Mommy and Me Sessions | Celebrating Motherhood | West Palm Beach Photographer | Wellington, FL Photographer| Palm Beach County Photographer

Are you making a visual history for your loved ones with you in them?

I bet many of you will say no. All too many times I try to get a Mom into a photo with their baby, toddler, child, teen and they say, "Nooo, I am _______________  fill in the blank." I'm here to tell you that's nonsense! I am here to tell you the only thing they will think when they look at photos of you together are my Mom loved me, cared for me, fed me, played with me, hugged me, went to my games, picked me up from school, took care of me when I was sick, worked to support me, read books to me, showed me tough love when I needed it, kissed me goodnight...They are going to cherish those photos more and more over time I promise you and so will you. In fact, you'll probably think you look better and better in that photo with time! LOL. Personally, my favorite photos of my children and I are the ones where I am interacting with them - I don't have to be looking at the lens.

when your children look back for photos with their Mom - will they find them? I hope so...

As we approach Mother's Day (Sunday, May 14) in this next month, I encourage you to do a Mommy and Me session! Priceless memories forever...

For Mamas with baby (not walking), I am photographing in the studio with the white bed along with some greenery along the bed frame. Mamas may use the studio's white, cream lace dresses or tops. You may wear what you wish, but the vision is a soft white/cream palette overall look. I recommend the same for baby - a white/cream outfit. If you are nursing, I highly recommend some beautiful nursing shots as this connection with your baby is indescribable. A mix of lifestyle and portrait shots will be taken. 

For Mamas with toddlers and older children, I will be photographing on location outdoors before sunset. Do you have a favorite activity that stands out in this stage of life that you'd love to document? It's not necessary, but something to think about especially if you have a child in the imaginative age range. Again, a mix of lifestyle and portrait shots will be taken. 

Mama and Me Sessions will begin shooting the week of April 17 through the entire month of May. Weekend sessions will happen on Saturday, April 29 and Sunday, April 30, 2017 from 12 - 4 pm scheduling each hour - 4 spots available each day. This is the only weekend session available before Mother's Day as SunFest is happening May 3-7 and downtown is pretty crazy. The 2nd weekend studio session will be Saturday, May 20, and Sunday, May 21, 2017. Weekday sessions are also available. On location outdoor sessions are booked 1 hour before sunset. 

For styling, I recommend classy on trend, comfortable clothes that you can move in with your children - maxi dresses, flowy shirts, stretchy pieces. I will consult with you prior to your shoot date to discuss final wardrobe. LuLaRoe just came out with a super cute Mommy and Me Collection - leggings as small as 2T to Tall and Curvy size. PLUS, LuLaRoe Team Jen is offering an additional 10% discount along with booking this session!!! Can't go wrong!

You can follow this link to shop: ShopTeamJen.com

I recommend getting your hair and makeup done for this session. If you need recommendations, please let me know. The session includes: 45 minutes of photography time (special attention focused on posing and perfecting Mama), 15 digital images delivered via digital download, 1-8x10 slim mini canvas of your favorite image. Cost: $325 +7% FL sales tax. Please allow 14 business days for final edits to be completed.

To book, please use the Contact tab or you may call 561.951.5024 to chat live. 

*Eh hem-great gift your husband can get you, send them over to this blog. Gift certificates are available.*

All About Newborns| Facts and Truths | West Palm Beach Newborn Photographer | Palm Beach County Newborn Photographer

Newborn babies, to me, is one of the most challenging and rewarding genres to photograph. When I first started I said to myself, how difficult can it be? They sleep, don't talk back or run around. You feed them, rock them and they go back to sleep. Right? NOPE.

After photographing over 2000 babies these last 3 years in the hospital and in studio, I have really learned these tiny things quite well. They have so many similar qualities, yet are each uniquely their own. 

Newborn Session Facts: Almost every newborn that gets into my hands pees or poops on me within the first 10 minutes. Parents sometimes feel terrible, but it's part of our daily as newborn photographers. Don't feel bad. I wear black or dark clothing with these sessions and usually Athleta pants that dry quickly. What you have planned with posing many times gets thrown out the window, so you quickly get creative and flow with babies ques. Safety and patience is a requirement in this job. Parents are a bit shocked when I say a full session will easily last up to 3 hours. It goes fast and you'll easily see why during your session. 

I am in love with the perfectly imperfect. A perfect portrait is what we strive for, but how a newborn moves, stretches, cries, yawns - those are real moments. Life moments. Beautiful moments that we rapidly forget, but want to remember. Why not document both?

Newborn Session Training/Workshops: The countless number of hours we have spent on learning newborn anatomy, posing, temperature, wrapping, safety, soothing, overall techniques setting up props, lighting, camera settings, editing, etc. is constant and never ending. We are giddy when we get to learn! We love newborns SO much that we would go to every workshop available to us if we could! 

Newborn Props: This is a huge problem. It is extremely ADDICTIVE! We provide our tiny clients super cute outfits, wraps, flokatis, fluff, fleece, bowls, buckets, blankets, headbands, bonnets. They are all handmade, many of them come from Europe and we wait weeks before receiving them. A typical newborn setup costs anywhere from $150-$200 - the backdrop, outfit, wrap, bowl, fluff, fleece, headband, bonnet. And we die when we get to use them! After all, these are fleeting moments that in a blink of an eye are over - they should look as cute as possible. We want that for you as parents! 

Personal Facts: I've always loved babies since I was a little girl. I wanted 10 kids and told my Mom and Grandmother this constantly as a child. Then, I became an adult and the reality of that hit. Since working in the hospital, I have all required immunizations that follow the guidelines for OB medical staff. Never ever did I imagine as a kid or young adult that I would be doing this as a career...but WHAT a dream!

Maternity sessions are best completed between 32-35 weeks. Newborns are best photographed 5-21 days after birth - the earlier the better. Maternity sessions can be added to a newborn session (a discount will apply). Book early to ensure your date is available. 

If you are a soon to be Mama, there are 2 newborn session packages available. A Newborn Mini Session - a shorter session with just baby and the Signature Newborn session which lasts up to 3 hours and includes baby, parents and siblings (if you wish). I am all about printing your memories. Digital are great and are included in packages, but there is nothing like physically holding onto your family art. A print/product is included in each package. Consultations are complimentary. I do love chatting with clients, so please feel free to call at 561. 951. 5024.  If you are a bit shy and prefer to communicate via email, use the contact tab to get in touch (Email: christina@christinalinphotography.com).

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Cupid Mini Sessions | aka Valentine's Mini Sessions | Palm Beach County Photographer | Downtown West Palm Beach Photography Studio

 

...Be a rainbow in someone else's cloud...

2017 Cupid Mini Sessions

Reserve your dreamy date...

Little girls, come in your princess best - pastels are a must - blush/pinks, gold, mint green or blues all so beautiful to stand out in the clouds. Little boys - just being a boy is perfectly fine - the classics will always do. There are some props in the studio that may work/fit your child.

*This session is focused on 1 child portraiture. 1 outfit only.  You may share this session with 1 other child, but please no more than 2 children. You may add siblings for an additional $25. 

Includes: 20 minute session, 5-7 digital images, 1-5x7 print. Additional images and prints may be purchased. Please allow 7 business days to complete final edits. Once 5x7 print is chosen, allow 2 weeks for ordering. Prints may be picked up at the studio. Session total: $150+FL tax.

Dates:

2.7.17. UPDATE! Can accommodate a couple extra of these sessions this week. Contact me asap.

To book, you may use the Contact button. Any questions, feel free to ask. Once your date is chosen, an invoice will be sent within 48 hours to reserve your date/time. And don't forget to join the email list for updates.

Have a wonderful day!

XO-Christina

EMBRACE 2017| NEWBORN Photography | Palm Beach County Photographer | West Palm Beach Photographer | Palm Beach County Newborn Photographer

So here we are, another new year, CHEERS to 2017!

2016 was a year beyond exciting with whirlwind changes. Each year becomes a bit busier than the last. Each year, I continue to meet new families and welcome my returning families to preserve, freeze and cherish their beloved, fleeting life moments. I welcome 2017 with wide open arms and the possibilities it holds. 

I choose one word to live by each year. Why? It grounds me when I'm feeling happy, sad, frustrated, disconnected. My 2017 word of the year: EMBRACE.

Embrace the now, the present. Embrace challenges. Embrace new connection. Embrace whatever stands before me because there is a reason for it. 

I tend to often think of the future and not embrace the present moments of the daily as I should. I have worked on "embrace" with conscious effort this last week & it has been nothing short of refreshing. My youngest daughter had her regular morning cuddles this morning. Out of nowhere, she said, "Mommy-do you remember when I was 4 yrs old and you picked me up at 11:00, then we went home for lunch-I'd watch Caillou, take a nap and we'd listen to that song...Beautiful something-on our way to pick up Em?" My heart melted like a volcano. It was sooo precious and sweet the way she said it. How she so remembered that important time in her pre-school days-just her and I. The time before she grew up and went to school like a big girl all day. Those were also the beginning days of my transition to focusing solely on photography as my career. Did I embrace those moments as I should have? I wish I could say I embraced them wholeheartedly. But the truth is I had just left my pharmaceutical career of 12 years and decided to fulfill this passion, so I was constantly feeling this onward push of the how, where, why, what, when on how to get there. And what I can say is-there is most definitely a time and place where and when life is suppose to happen. It will happen-maybe not on your timeline-or maybe not on the timeline you expected. But it does happen. I hope you embrace this year as it unfolds in front of you. I'll work on it with you...

The peak of family photography season has just ended. However, if you got a bit too busy or still would like to have your family portraits done, there is no time like the present especially in these cooler Florida months to freeze some memories of your crew altogether. Once the session is over, I can promise you, you won't regret it. You will remember the quirks, the expressions, the toothless grins. You will remember the perfectly imperfect of your family dynamics. The perfectly imperfect is a beautiful thing! It makes you-YOU.

January is here and I'd like to get back to my newborn sessions in the studio. If you are a new Mom, this precious newborn time to start your baby's visual history is a short, short blip in time-only the first few weeks of life. Newborns are best photographed between 5-21 days after birth. They like to stay curly and cuddle up in those very early days. Moms-you're also super exhausted amongst a dozen other mental/physical changes going on within. You will make a million excuses on why you cannot do it, but I tell you if you're considering documenting the brand new-ness of life. DO IT! You will quickly forget their bright, glassy eyes, their super tiny fingers/toes, their peeling skin, they way they stretched. You will wake up one day and your baby is 6 months old and you'll ask yourself - HOW is my baby already a 1/2 a year??? I make it easy for you. All props, blankets, wraps, headbands, outfits are all here in the studio for your baby to use. You just need to bring him/her in with basic necessities. Sit on the couch, nap, read, relax or take a stroll downtown, grab a coffee. Breathe. I do the work! Consider this time in the studio your relaxation time! Please contact me for details. I'd be honored to photograph your precious bundle - some portraits, some real moments (aka lifestyle photography such as below.)

P.S. Check out the updated investment page! All galleries will be revealed in the studio where we will also design and create your family art. You have the option to purchase a la carte or choose a package that fits your needs and wants. There is no minimum purchase requirement. Purchase what you love!

XO-Christina

"Because you are my definition of perfection..."

Small Business Saturday in Downtown West Palm Beach on November 26, 2016! #shoplocalwpb

Downtown West Palm Beach is full of amazing, unique small businesses! Come check out Small Business Saturday tomorrow, November 26, 2016! Oh and FREE parking from 10am-8pm in city garages with validation-will be given upon arrival.

Give the gift of forever...

SPECIAL Holiday Bed Mini Sessions - 15 minutes - 5 digital images plus a 5x7 print - $175. A super fun session! Perfect for children, couples, small families & fur babies! Purchase November 25-28, 2016. Must be redeemed by December 31, 2016. Book fast as limited times/dates available. We believe in printing your family art. Come see the product samples in the studio.

Have professional digital images that you've done nothing with (like most people - they just sit in a drawer collecting dust, forgotten about)??? Yup - talkin' to you. Those priceless memories need to be printed and put on your desk or wall. Why invest in a professional photography session and not have something to hold onto? Come into the studio and let's talk about what to do with them. 40% off prints/products through Monday, November 28, 2016.

Looking for a session outdoors? Book a 30 minute session. Receive 10 digital files, 1-8x10 Slim Canvas Mini - $325. Please allow up to 10 days for final edits to be completed. 

Take $100 off Art Collection packages through Monday, November 28, 2016. Packages begin at $695 and include print/product credit. You choose your favorite products to complement the decor of your home. 

Also, there are still 2 spots available at 2:00 and 2:45 for The Magical Santa Experience happening next Saturday, December 3. For details, scroll down a few blog posts.

Preserve. Freeze. Cherish your family memories. Use the contact tab to book or for any questions you may have.

As always, gift certificates are always available. 

Happy Holidays! XO-Christina

The Magical Santa Experience is opening a SECOND DATE on December 3, 2016!

The Magical Santa Experience will be opening a SECOND date since the first one sold out. Last year was so fun for the children. Some were a bit shy, some were brave and bold, some cried, but most had fun, cherished moments with Santa Claus! The wonder, the curiosity is something you don't want your children to miss out on!

why wait in long lines at the mall-and possibly your child having a tantrum just before it's your turn to sit and chat with santa?

Come in during your scheduled appointment at the studio without the rush and let the magic unfold. Bring your child's most cherished items from this year to remember.

Come as your heart desires. Dress in your Christmas pajamas or your holiday best. But please, just one outfit.

Bring your Christmas wish list, tell Santa your secrets, bring your favorite holiday book, throw some snow and share some milk and cookies.

There will be 2 setups this year. One will be special moments with Santa and the second will be a light and airy feel on the white bed. We will be shooting on both set ups.

Date: Saturday, December 3, 2016

30 minute session experience begins sharp at: 10:00, 10:45, 11:30, 12:15, 1:00 (1:30-2:00-Break) 2:00, 2:45

Please inquire for available for time slots. As of 11/25/16 - there are 2 spots available. This will be the last time Santa will visit the studio this year.

Includes: 10 digital images via digital download | Children only | $250.00 + 6% FL sales tax. A non-refundable $50 deposit is required to hold your time slot at the time of booking. Remaining balance due 1 week prior to shoot date. Please allow 7-10 days to complete final edits.

*Please note there is a $50 additional fee to expedite the editing process if you are wanting these images for a holiday card.*

Print and product samples will be available to see and touch.

Location: The Studio | 421 South Olive Avenue, West Palm Beach, FL 33401

Please use the Contact tab to book or call 561.951.5024. I look forward to working with you soon!

Gift certificates are always available. (Hint* Grandparents love to purchase this as a gift)