The Magic of Meeting the Real Santa: Santa Claus Experience in Hertfordshire
The look on their faces is why I do this
Every year I stand behind my camera and watch children meet Santa. And every year, it gets me.
I have been in floods of happy tears behind the lens more than once. Not because the photos are pretty (although they are), but because of that tiny gasp, the wide eyes, the "he's REAL" moment that no parent can script.
That is exactly what the Santa Claus Experience at Olivia Christina Photography is built around.
We searched for the real deal
My PA and I spent a long time researching and trialling Santas. We wanted one who made children feel safe, believed, and completely seen.
When we found him, we knew. Our Santa comes direct from the North Pole for two days, especially for us. He is warm, patient and genuinely magical, and the children can tell.
Santa who understands every child
This is the part I am proudest of. Our Santa is wonderful with SEN needs and can use BSL (British Sign Language). He goes at your child's pace, with no rush and no pressure. Every child deserves a Santa who meets them exactly where they are.
If your child has particular needs, tell us in the booking form and we will make sure Santa knows before they walk in.
Your two choices
Option 1: Santa Meet and Greet, £49
A relaxed 5 minute session with Santa and a photograph to keep. Perfect for little ones, quick visits and keeping the day simple.
Option 2: The Santa Claus Experience (our favourite!)
A 15 minute personal one-to-one with the main man. Here is how the magic unfolds:
It starts like a normal photoshoot. Most parents do not tell their children they are seeing Santa.
Then you hear a jingle. Santa appears from behind the curtain, and the reaction is simply priceless.
Santa checks the Nice List. He has a large old book with every child's name in it. Watching them lean in to find their own name is the cutest thing you will ever see.
Santa knows them. When you book, you can tell us anything your child would like Santa to know. You can also give Santa a message to pass on: how proud he is of their hard work at school, or perhaps a gentle word about showing parents less cheek and tidying their toys. Just pop it in the booking form!
I capture it all, quietly. I am silently and discreetly snapping away so the real, unposed moments are saved.
We finish with a proper portrait with Santa. Parents are welcome in this one too.
Siblings, cousins and families
Sessions are for siblings. Want the cousins to join in? Book the adjoining session. As one session wraps up, the other crosses over before they have their own personal one-to-one with Santa.
What it costs
Santa Meet and Greet: £49 (5 minutes, includes 1 digital image)
The Santa Claus Experience: from £49 to book, with £99 paid at the time of booking or on the day for all your images, shared in a private online gallery
What families say
Don't just take my word for it. Olivia Christina Photography holds a 5 star rating from 59 Google reviews, and many families have shared their Christmas experiences there. Have a read and see for yourself.
Places are limited
Santa is only with us for two days, and sessions go quickly. Once they are gone, they are gone.
If you have questions about SEN needs, BSL or which session to choose, message me and I will help.
Olivia Christina Photography, 89a High Street, Watton at Stone, Hertford, Hertfordshire SG14 3SZ. Serving Hertford, Stevenage, St Albans, Hitchin and Ware.
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