Christmas Tree Adventure Sessions
Document your family’s hunt for the perfect tree in the Colorado mountains
Offered in Salida & Buena Vista, 2025. Limited sessions available this season.
There’s something magical about bundling up, trekking into the woods, and choosing your own Christmas tree — rosy cheeks, laughter, maybe a little bickering, and the smell of pine in the air.
These documentary-style sessions capture your family’s real adventure: the search for your perfect tree, the teamwork, and the joy that follows. We’ll grab a few classic portraits too, but mostly, I’ll be tagging along as your storyteller.
Ready to make it happen? Sessions are up to two hours and include at least 35 edited images — $700 this season, or $500 for the first five bookings.
Please note: These sessions are for families already familiar with cutting their own tree in National Forest lands. You’ll need to secure your own Forest Service permit and know where you plan to go — I’ll meet you there to document the fun!
“If you are comfortable in nature, but not so comfortable in front of the camera, I highly recommend hiring Emily.”
✨ Holiday Special: $500 for the first five families to book (regularly $700).
Includes up to two hours of coverage, 35+ edited images, and the adventure of a lifetime.
What’s Included:
Up to 2 hours of photography coverage
Minimum of 35 edited, high-resolution images
Private online gallery for downloading and ordering prints
Sneak peeks within a few days
Optional classic portraits during your adventure
Growing up in Maine, cutting our Christmas tree at a tree farm was one of my favorite family traditions. When I moved to Colorado, I was thrilled to learn people still do this — just in the National Forests. I started offering these sessions because I love the joy, the nostalgia, and the wild beauty of this tradition.
Most sessions take place within 10 miles of Salida or Buena Vista. Let’s plan your adventure!
““My family and I loved the “adventure” photo session. Not only do we have great photos as a result but we also had a great excuse to spend time together outside as a family in a relaxed and playful way. Emily’s images captured this fun and tenderness beautifully. She was great to work with, so professional but very patient with kids and her turnaround time was impressive. This memory will last forever!””
FAQ’s
What about health and safety precautions?
I am vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19 and will wear a mask during sessions if you would prefer me to wear one. Masks are not required for clients. All sessions take place outdoors.
What should I expect?
A high-energy session where your family gets to hike and explore the woods. I guarantee I will ask about family traditions, inside jokes, and will laugh at any bickering that ensues in the quest for the perfect tree. I shoot in a documentary style and am also happy to direct your family into a few classic portraits upon request during the session.
Once you submit my contact form I will email you to finalize your session date and time. A signed contract and $200 retainer secures your booking and the remaining balance is due on the day of your session.
How do I pay?
Once you sign your contract you can pay your deposit and remaining balance by cash, personal check, or my website Shop (accepts all major credit cards & Paypal). You will receive email instructions about each option after booking.
Where are you able to take photos?
Christmas Tree sessions take place in the National Forest areas surrounding Salida or Buena Vista, Colorado. Please choose a spot within 10 miles of either location.
What time of day are your sessions?
Christmas Tree sessions are typically in the afternoon to take advantage of the warmer temperatures, but I love crisp early mornings, too. After you secure your session date I will work with you to find a start time that works best for your family and the light.
Who can I bring?
Adventure sessions are great for families of all kinds, whether it's just you and your partner, you and your furbaby, or you roll with kids from babies to teens. Session price includes immediate families up to four kids and two adults, and up to three well-behaved dogs. Additional costs apply for larger groups - contact me about coming up with an estimate.
What should I/we wear?
There's no requirement for dressy outfits, make-up, or perfect poses, but if an outfit with flourish or your favorite lipstick will make you feel confident, go for it. I want you to feel like yourself. If you need more direction: My clients tend to go for an outdoorsy lifestyle and earth tones. I recommend solid colors (can be muted or bright) and playing with textures like sweaters and outdoor accessories like knitted hats or other gear you always use. Stay away from noticeable logos or words on clothing.
What should I bring?
Your love for the outdoors and the essentials to keep hydrated or to keep little ones happy. A snack and a change of socks I've found to be wise. Treats for doggos are great but make sure you can hide them in photos. Don't forget sun protection, though I ask clients not to wear sunglasses.
How many photos will I receive and when should I expect them?
You'll receive a minimum of 35 edited pictures in an online gallery. You'll have options for ordering prints, albums, and other products shipped directly to you, or you can download them at full and web resolution for safekeeping / printing and sharing on your own. I share a few sneak peek images within a few days after the shoot and provide the final gallery link within 3-4 weeks.
Ready to book? Please fill out the contact form, below.