Holiday Family Photos That Last Beyond the Season

Tara Flannery is a  Certified Professional Photographer (CPP), Photographic Craftsman, and Master of Photography based in Houston, TX.  Tara Flannery Photography specializes in family portraits.  See more family photos in the gallery.  Contact me to book your family portrait today!

Things to do With Your Family Photos

The holidays are a whirlwind of decorating, shopping, cooking, and traveling. But when the season passes, what truly lasts? Family photos.

Holiday family portraits are more than just pretty pictures — they become wall art, heirlooms, gifts, and timeless memories you’ll treasure year after year. The best part? With the right planning, they can check multiple things off your holiday to-do list while creating keepsakes your family will enjoy for decades.


1. Wall Art for a Home You Love

The number one reason many families book a holiday session is for wall art. Portraits aren’t just digital files; they’re artwork for your home.

One of the unique services I offer is custom wall art design software. This lets you see exactly how different sizes and styles of portraits will look on your actual wall space before you order. No more guessing if an 11×14 will look too small above the mantel — you’ll have a true-to-scale preview of how it fits.

Holiday sessions are the perfect excuse to refresh your home’s decor before guests arrive, creating a space that feels warm, personal, and beautifully complete.

2. Albums as a Legacy

What if you don’t have much wall space? That’s the most common concern I hear from families. My solution: albums.

Albums are tangible keepsakes that can be passed down from one generation to the next. They’re like storybooks for your family — your children can flip through them now, and one day, share them with their own kids. Unlike digital files that often get lost or forgotten, albums are timeless and intentional.

An album isn’t just about having photos; it’s about preserving your family’s story in a way that will be cherished for decades.


3. Holiday Cards That Stand Out

There’s nothing more meaningful than opening a holiday card with a portrait of your loved ones. Booking your family photos in the fall means you’ll have plenty of time to design and order cards before printing deadlines hit.

Unlike stock designs, a personalized card with your portraits stands out in the mailbox and often becomes a keepsake itself. Friends and family display them on mantels and fridges, keeping your family’s smiling faces close all season long.

family photo holiday cards

4. Gifts for Loved Ones

Looking for thoughtful gift ideas? Family photos are perfect for that, too.

Grandparents and relatives especially love receiving updated portraits of your growing family. A framed print, canvas, or small keepsake album is something they’ll treasure and display with pride. For out-of-town grandparents, these gifts provide an emotional connection that goes far beyond a phone call.

Unlike typical gifts that may lose value over time, portraits become more meaningful as the years go by.


5. Digital Uses

Family photos aren’t limited to prints and albums — they also shine in the digital space.

  • Add them to your holiday newsletters.
  • Share year-in-review posts on social media.
  • Create virtual holiday greetings for friends and family far away.

These digital uses allow your photos to spread joy near and far, helping you stay connected with loved ones no matter where they are.

Timing Is Everything

When’s the best time to book family photos for the holidays? The answer: now.

  • October is ideal for booking. This allows time to plan outfits, coordinate schedules, and decide on the products you’d like (cards, albums, wall art).
  • November is perfect for shooting. Sessions in early-to-mid November ensure your portraits are ready in plenty of time for cards and gifts.

Here’s the kicker: November only has four weekends — and those dates go fast. Since weekends are the easiest time for families with kids, securing your spot early guarantees you’ll have options that work for your schedule.


Conclusion & CTA

At the end of the day, family photos aren’t just pictures. They’re art that fills your home, albums that tell your story, holiday cards that spread cheer, and gifts that bring joy to loved ones. More importantly, they’re memories that live on well beyond the holiday season.

Ready to create portraits that will be treasured this year — and for years to come?
Let’s book your holiday family session today before the calendar fills up! Click HERE to schedule a consultation with me.

family portraits pets

Tara Flannery is a  Certified Professional Photographer (CPP), Photographic Craftsman, and Master of Photography based in Houston, TX.  Tara Flannery Photography specializes in family portraits.  See more family photos in the gallery.  Contact me to book your family portrait today!

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@taraflanneryphotography

Let’s talk about it 👇🏻

So many people wait to book their headshot because they feel like they need to “fix” something first.

Lose a little weight. Clear their skin. Feel more confident. Look more put-together.

But here’s the truth:

The version of you that exists right now is already worthy of being seen.

The best headshots don’t come from perfection — they come from authenticity.

Real expression. Real connection. Real confidence… even if you don’t quite feel it walking in.

During every session, I guide you through posing, lighting, and expression so you feel relaxed, supported, and comfortable — because that’s when the magic happens. You don’t have to know what to do. You don’t have to feel “ready.” You just have to show up.

✨ If you want a headshot that feels like you, I’d love to help.

Click the link in my bio to schedule your consultation OR to grab my FREE headshot session guide for more information!

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If you’re hosting a holiday party this year… there’s something you don’t want to overlook 👇🏻

Your team is already together, dressed up, and in great spirits — which makes it the perfect moment to update everyone’s headshots. No juggling schedules, no tracking people down, no pulling anyone out of meetings. Just quick, polished photos your team can pop in for, and then head right back to the party.

It’s an easy way to add value to your celebration and give your employees something they’ll actually use heading into the new year. And with my streamlined event setup (and zero admin work for you), the process is effortless from start to finish.

✨ If you’re planning a holiday party, let’s talk about adding on-site headshots.
Click the link in my bio to schedule your consultation.

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- Do this instead 👇🏻
 
  Most people focus on their outfit or expression — but your background plays a huge role in how others perceive you. It sets the tone for your personal brand before you even introduce yourself.
 
  Your space tells clients what working with you feels like.
 
  Here’s how different backdrops communicate different messages:
 
 🏢 Corporate office → traditional, established, and formal.
 
 🌿 Natural outdoor setting → approachable, creative, and warm.
 
 🏙️ Urban or architectural environment → modern, edgy, and innovative.
 
 🎨 Solid color or studio backdrop → clean, versatile, and timeless.
 
  Even subtle shifts in tone, texture, or color can completely change the mood of your headshot — which is why the location is just as important as the lighting or pose.
 
  And here’s the exciting part: with the help of professional AI editing, you don’t have to choose just one. We can create on-brand variations that fit different platforms — like LinkedIn, your website, or your marketing materials — while keeping your headshot cohesive and authentic.
 
  Because when every detail works together — from your expression to your background — your headshot becomes more than a picture. It becomes your first impression.
 
 📩 Ready to plan your next session? Message me and let’s find the backdrop that tells your brand story best.

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Here’s how to fix that 👇🏻

If you’ve ever felt uncomfortable in front of the camera — especially when someone else is taking your picture — you’re not alone. It’s completely normal.

Taking professional photos can feel surprisingly vulnerable. You’re being seen, literally, and that can stir up a lot of nerves.

But here’s the thing: feeling awkward shouldn’t stop you from getting photos you love. My job as your photographer is to help ease that discomfort so you can show up as your best, most authentic self.

Here’s how I help clients do just that:

1️⃣ The Consultation

Before your session, we’ll chat about your goals, style, and how you want to be seen. I also connect clients with trusted stylists who can help you choose outfits that make you feel confident and comfortable (if needed).

2️⃣ A Calm, Supportive Environment

Whether we’re in my studio, your office, or an outdoor location, my priority is to create a space where you can relax, laugh, and genuinely enjoy the process. When you’re at ease, it always shows in your photos.

3️⃣ A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way

Get plenty of rest, hydrate, and plan your wardrobe ahead of time. When you feel prepared, you walk into your session with a completely different kind of confidence.

Because the truth is — professional photos can feel vulnerable, but with the right guidance, they can also be empowering. 💛

📩 Ready to feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera? Message me to schedule your session today.

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Here's what you can expect at a headshot session with me 👇🏻

✨ Pre-session consultation to understand your brand and team dynamics
📋 Wardrobe guidance that aligns with your company culture
🎯 Multiple looks and expressions to give everyone options
⏰ Efficient workflow that respects everyone's busy schedules
💼 Professional retouching that maintains authenticity
📱 Digital gallery delivery within 48 hours

Be honest—when was the last time your team photos actually represented who you are today? Most companies wait 3-5 years between updates, but your people (and your business) evolve much faster than that.

Your team's headshots aren't just photos—they're the first impression potential clients, partners, and talent get of your company culture. When they're outdated or inconsistent, what message does that send?

Ready to show the world the dynamic team you've built? Let's create imagery that matches your company's growth. 🚀

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Serving the Greater Houston, Texas Area

tara@taraflannery.com

713-412-5437

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Tara is a member of the Professional Photographers of America PPA.
Tara is a Certified Professional Photographer.
Tara is a member of TPPA Texas Professional Photographer's Association.
Tara has earned her Master of Photography degree.
Tara has earned her Photographic Craftsman certification.
Tara is a member of the Professional Photographers Guild of Houston PPGH.