Photography
Marie Koleka

Holiday Cookie Mini Sessions – Pittsburgh Pa (And Your Kids Are Going to Love This)


Holiday Mini Sessions – Pittsburgh Family Photographer


Picture this: your kids are elbow-deep in cookie dough, sprinkles are flying, and somewhere in the middle of all that joyful chaos, I’m capturing the most genuine smiles you’ve seen all year. No stiff poses. No “okay everyone look at the camera.” Just real holiday fun, happening right in front of the lens.

That’s exactly what my cookie holiday mini sessions are all about, and honestly, I am so excited.

Why This Kind of Mini Session Just Works

Here’s something I’ve learned from photographing young kids: the moment they have something to do, they completely forget there’s a camera in the room. That’s the magic.

Rolling out real cookie dough, shaking on the sprinkles, sneaking a taste when they think you’re not looking – these are the moments that make a holiday card feel like your family, rather than a stock photo. And for kids who tend to freeze up or go shy in front of a camera, having their hands busy and their minds focused on cookies is a total reset.

This is exactly why I designed these sessions the way I did. Kids stay engaged, parents can relax a little, and I get to do what I love most: catch the real stuff.

Siblings in Christmas pajamas decorating cookies during holiday mini session in Brighton Township, PA.

What to Expect During Your Holiday Mini Session: 15-Minute camera time with your go to Pittsburgh family photographer

Yes, 15 minutes. Short, sweet, and designed to work with little kids instead of against them.

Mini sessions are quick snapshots of your family at this season, this age, this chapter. There’s no drawn-out timeline to manage or a toddler slowly losing steam over an hour. We go in, we have fun, and we walk away with images that genuinely reflect your family.

Here’s how I prioritize your time in the studio:

  • A full family photo – everyone together, the one you’ll probably want most
  • Individual moments with the kids – their personalities, their joy, their sprinkle-covered hands
  • Genuine sibling and parent-child connection – the laughs, the looks, the little in-between moments

Every session includes an online gallery. You select 6 digital images, download them instantly, and you’ll have the option to purchase additional favorites after reviewing your gallery if desired.

What to Wear for Your Holiday Cookie Session

This is one of the questions I get most, so let’s make it simple.

Christmas pajamas are a perfect fit for these sessions. They’re cozy, they’re festive, and they read beautifully on camera – especially for a warm, at-home holiday card vibe. If your family leans more dressed-up for the holidays, special holiday clothing works just as well. Think rich colors, coordinating (not matching) outfits, and layers that photograph well.

Either direction you go, just make sure the kids are comfortable. Comfortable kids cooperate. Uncomfortable kids let you know about it immediately.

The Details You Need to Know

These Holiday Mini Sessions are happening at my home studio in Beaver, PA (Beaver County, PA) on:

  • November 13th, 2026
  • November 14th, 2026

I might be in Beaver, PA but I like to consider myself a Pittsburgh Family Photographer. Sessions are 15 minutes each and move at a fun, kid pace. You’ll receive an online gallery with 6 digital images included, with the option to add more after you’ve had a chance to fall in love with your favorites.

Spots are limited, and they will fill up. If you are on my email list, you get first access to select your date and time before sessions open to the public.

Child's portrait during holiday mini session at Marie Koleka Photography studio, Beaver County PA.

Ready to Grab Your Spot?

Childhood is short, and the holidays go even faster. These 15 minutes? They’re worth it. Not just for the card you’ll send, but for the images you’ll look back on years from now and remember exactly how little they were, exactly how much they loved this.

Email subscribers get first access to book their session. Join the list at mariekphoto.com so you don’t miss your spot.

Already know you want in? Send me a message here and I’ll personally add you to the list so you’re ready to go when booking opens.

I can’t wait to get a little flour on the table with your family.

Newborn and Family Photography

Hey there, I am Marie! A wife and mama of three littles. Picking up my camera and freezing special stages in everyone’s lives brings a smile to my face. I would love to serve you and other families in the greater Pittsburgh, Beaver, Cranberry Township, Robinson Township and Wexford PA areas. Click here to get in touch with me! Make sure to follow along on Instagram and see the latest laughs!

September 16, 2026

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