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Let’s talk about that one person on your gift list who’s notoriously hard to shop for.

She’s lovely, thoughtful, and… already has everything. Or maybe she’s the opposite – she rarely does something special for herself, even though she totally deserves it (I’m looking at you, moms). Now imagine giving her something that captures memories, not stuff – something she’ll treasure way longer than a new sweater or the latest candle set from Target.

Giving a photo session as a holiday gift lets you hit pause on the chaos of wrapping paper and to-do lists… and give the kind of present that doesn’t collect dust. I’ve even had a client who gifted a session to their daughter for Christmas years ago, and they’ve been coming back to me every single year since. That simple gift turned into a five-year (and counting) portrait tradition. Not to be cheesy, but that kind of personal connection? It’s the real gift.

Here’s what to know if you’re thinking about gifting a photo session (and how to make it super easy).

What Makes a Photo Session Gift So Meaningful?

Let’s be honest: a lot of us wait too long to book photos. Between work schedules, school events, and just plain forgetting, we often shove it to the “someday” list. Gifting a session gives someone an easy YES. It turns “at some point” into a confirmed plan with a photographer who won’t make them figure it all out alone.

The best part? It’s not just a pretty picture moment – it’s an experience. A mom gets to watch her daughter shine in front of the camera. A teen gets her confidence hyped. A family gets to pause and show up for one another.

And if you’re a last-minute shopper (no judgment here), it doesn’t get easier than this next part…

How to Purchase a Photography Gift Certificate

Buying a gift card for a photography session probably sounds more complicated than it really is. Spoiler: it’s not.

1. Decide How You Want To Gift It

You have two options:

• A set amount (in $50 increments)
• A full session amount (perfect if you want to cover everything)

If you’re unsure what a full session costs or how much to cover, just reach out and I’ll help you find the best fit based on your budget.

2. Choose How You Want It Delivered

Let’s talk delivery options:

• Digital Gift Certificate: Super quick, easy to email, and perfect for last-minute gifting.
• Paper Gift Certificate: Want something to wrap up and put under the tree? I can mail or schedule a pickup for a physical card that feels extra-special.

Just let me know which you prefer and I’ll make it happen. You get brownie points either way.

3. Let Them Book When They’re Ready

The gift card recipient will have access to my easy online booking system, where they can view available dates and pick what works for them. It links straight to my calendar, so no back-and-forth messages or confusion. Whether it’s mid-February or spring blossoms in Savannah, they get to decide.

Pro tip: Include a sweet note encouraging them to carve out time just for themselves. Especially if the recipient is a mom who tends to skip being in the photos.

Why the Gift of Photography Stands Out

Anyone can run to the store and grab a gift basket, but not everyone thinks to give something timeless. And let’s be real… most people don’t plan to schedule a session in the new year – they wait until calendars get too full. So when someone opens a gift certificate and realizes they get the chance to feel amazing in front of the camera, it’s a serious lightbulb moment.

Even better? It’s one of those rare gifts that gets even more valuable after it’s used. You’re not just capturing a face, you’re freezing a feeling. That new grad excitement. That mother-daughter bond. That big goofy grin before college begins. That’s the kind of magic I love delivering.

Ready to Gift a Session?

If you’re thinking, “OK, this sounds great but I still don’t know which session to get,” I’ve got you. Just contact me and we’ll walk through your options. I’ll help you figure out the right gift amount, get it prepped to deliver (digitally or paper), and make sure the recipient has a smooth, stress-free booking process.

You can purchase a holiday gift card online right here and have it sent within minutes, or arrange a paper version for a more wrapped-and-ready vibe.

Whether you’re shopping for a high school senior, a mom who never treats herself, or someone who needs a little self-love moment in 2024, this is a gift that feels personal, meaningful, and easy to enjoy.

Now… go cross “best, most thoughtful gift” off your holiday to-do list.