A refreshing angle on all things photography, tips + trends for clients

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Meaningful Christmas Gift Ideas From a Photographer (That People Actually Keep)
Prints Katelyn Winter | Girl Behind the Lens Prints Katelyn Winter | Girl Behind the Lens

Meaningful Christmas Gift Ideas From a Photographer (That People Actually Keep)

As photographers, we get to capture life’s best moments — which makes photo gifts one of the most meaningful presents you can give for Christmas. In this post, you’ll find heartfelt gift ideas such as photo albums, scrapbooks, fridge magnets, custom calendars, gallery wall kits, and photo session gift cards. These gifts are personal, thoughtful, and guaranteed to be appreciated long after the holidays end. If you want to give something that truly matters — something that tells a story — this guide will help you turn photos into memorable, emotional Christmas keepsakes.

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Your Guide to Perfectly Tacky Christmas Photos You Can Take Yourself
Katelyn Winter | Girl Behind the Lens Katelyn Winter | Girl Behind the Lens

Your Guide to Perfectly Tacky Christmas Photos You Can Take Yourself

This guide is all about embracing colorful chaos and creating perfectly tacky Christmas photos you can take yourself—no studio or fancy equipment needed. With a mix of DIY backdrops, ugly sweater styling, pose ideas, and self-timer tips, you'll learn how to turn your living room into a wonderfully awkward holiday photo set. Whether you're documenting your kids, pets, partner, or just having fun with friends, these photos are meant to be imperfect, hilarious, and full of personality. Think less Pinterest-perfect, more family Christmas-card-gone-wrong — in the best way.

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How to Style Your Home for a Nostalgic Holiday Photoshoot
Katelyn Winter | Girl Behind the Lens Katelyn Winter | Girl Behind the Lens

How to Style Your Home for a Nostalgic Holiday Photoshoot

There’s a new holiday photo trend on the rise — and it’s not about perfection. Instead of curated studio spaces, more couples and families are craving that nostalgic, lived-in vibe. Think plaid blankets, warm lamps, messy cookies on the counter, and real moments unfolding at home. This post breaks down simple ways to style your home for a heartwarming holiday photoshoot — without spending hours cleaning or overthinking every corner. If your goal is cozy, nostalgic, and real… you’re already halfway there.

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It’s November: Here’s Your Stress-Free Plan for Christmas Photos
Katelyn Winter | Girl Behind the Lens Katelyn Winter | Girl Behind the Lens

It’s November: Here’s Your Stress-Free Plan for Christmas Photos

November is the sweet spot for planning Christmas photos: the weather still cooperates, the crowds haven’t peaked, and you have enough time to create a cozy, intentional session without the December scramble. In this guide, I’m breaking down everything couples should do now to make their holiday photos feel relaxed, authentic, and beautifully styled — from choosing outfits that won’t look dated next year, to picking locations that match your vibe, to prepping cozy props and navigating unpredictable weather. As a New England photographer, I’ve seen how much smoother sessions run when couples prepare early, and how much more joy they get out of the experience. Whether you’re dreaming of tree farm magic, a moody forest backdrop, or an at-home Christmas morning vibe, November gives you the breathing room to plan something personal, warm, and truly you.

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