🎄 Why OC Families Should Book Christmas Photos in July

Yes, Christmas in July is a thing—and for Orange County families, it’s the smartest way to get ahead of the holiday chaos.

At Blue Skys Studio, we believe the best time to plan your family’s holiday portraits is now—while the sun is shining, the kids are out of school, and your calendar isn’t already packed with holiday parties, gift shopping, and school events.

Here’s why savvy OC families are getting their portraits done early—and how our Christmas in July Special makes it fun, easy, and stress-free.


Smiling family of four during Christmas in July photo session in Laguna Beach, Orange County”

☀️ 1. Avoid the Holiday Rush

Fall and winter get busy fast. Between back-to-school, sports, travel, and the holidays, scheduling anything for your family becomes nearly impossible.

Booking your session in July gives you the flexibility to choose the perfect day, time, and location—before our calendar fills up with last-minute bookings.


Family holiday portrait taken outdoors in Laguna Beach during Christmas in July session

🌤️ 2. Take Advantage of Perfect Weather

Let’s face it—July in Orange County is gorgeous. Golden sunlight, warm evenings, and vibrant greenery make it the ideal time for glowing, natural family portraits.

Unlike December, you don’t have to deal with chilly winds, rain delays, or gloomy skies.

 

🌿 3. Nature Looks Its Best

From Laguna Canyon’s wildflowers to golden hour light along the Newport Beach coast, summer showcases the best of OC’s natural beauty.

Whether you want ocean views, a tree-lined park, or a rustic field, we’ll help you choose the perfect backdrop.


Orange County family smiling during a summer holiday photo session with Blue Skys Studio

4. Take Advantage of Our Christmas in July Special

We’re making it easy—and irresistible—for your family to get ahead this year with our Christmas in July Special. Each session includes everything you need to knock “holiday photos” off your to-do list in style:

A full-length, customized portrait session tailored to your family’s needs
25 custom-designed holiday cards using your favorite images
A full gallery of posed and candid photos, including family portraits, sibling shots, parent combos, and individual portraits
Wardrobe consultation and location guidance so you look and feel your best
✅ Options to add on custom albums and wall art to showcase your favorite images at home

But don’t wait—we only have limited time slots available, and this package is an amazing deal that families return for year after year.

Christmas In July Family Portraits

“Where Summer Meets the Season of Joy: Christmas in July Portraits”

Celebrate the spirit of the season before the holiday rush begins. Blue Skys Studio invites you to take part in our exclusive Christmas in July family portraits event—a luxurious opportunity to create heirloom artwork while the sun is still shining.a luxurious opportunity to create meaningful family portraits and heirloom artwork while the sun is still shining.

With just 12 private sessions available, this is a limited-time offer designed for families who value beauty, connection, and timeless imagery.


Casual family photo capturing genuine expressions and laughter.

 A Signature Holiday Portrait Experience – Only $249

This summer, treat your family to a one-of-a-kind session that blends elegance with ease. For just $249, you’ll receive:

  • A full-length family portrait session at a stunning outdoor location of your choice

  • 25 custom-designed holiday cards featuring your favorite image(s)

  • A beautifully curated gallery of candid and posed portraits, including family groupings, siblings, and individual moments

  • Personalized wardrobe guidance and location styling

  • Optional upgrades for custom albums, gallery wall installations, and fine-art prints

📸 Book Your Family’s Session Now →


Family of four embracing in a loving hug with the scenic San Clemente Beach behind them.

Why Choose Us for Your Christmas in July Family Portraits

At Blue Skys Studio, we believe that portraiture is more than photography—it’s a chance to tell your family’s story through sophisticated, soulful images. For over 20 years, we’ve worked with Orange County’s most discerning families to create portraits that are:

  • Luxuriously styled and expertly lit

  • Warm, candid, and full of joy

  • Tailored to your personality and home decor aesthetic

Whether you dream of a serene beach backdrop, a lush garden, or a modern cityscape, we’ll guide you through every detail—from outfit styling to natural posing—so you feel confident and cared for throughout your entire experience.


Candid shot of the Brooke Smith family walking together.

📍 Choose Your Perfect Backdrop

🌊 Scenic Beach Portraits
The ultimate SoCal experience. Let the ocean breeze and golden-hour glow set the scene for timeless family portraits.

🌳 Lush Park Portraits
Enjoy nature’s beauty with vibrant greens, floral backdrops, and serene paths—perfect for families seeking a classic, romantic feel.

🏙️ Stylish Urban Portraits
Chic, modern, and full of energy—urban locations bring a contemporary edge to your holiday portraits, ideal for families with bold style.

📅 Secure Your Spot – Only 12 Sessions Available


Family photo session at Picnic beach at sunset in Laguna Beach.

What Our Clients Are Saying

“Our session with Blue Skys Studio was magical. The experience was effortless, and the portraits truly reflect who we are.”
– Emily R., Laguna Beach

“I didn’t think a photo session could feel this relaxed and fun. The results are absolutely stunning.”
– Michael T., Newport Beach

“From start to finish, everything felt personalized and luxurious. We finally have portraits worthy of our home.”
– Sarah L., Irvine


Family photos with teenage kids in Orange County CAFrequently Asked Questions

What’s the best time of day for portraits?
We recommend scheduling during golden hour—the hour before sunset—when the light is soft and flattering.

What should we wear?
Don’t worry—we provide tailored wardrobe suggestions to match your location and personal style.

Will you help with posing?
Absolutely. With decades of experience, we’ll gently guide you through posing to create natural, joyful images.

What about lighting?
We use a mix of natural light and off-camera flash to ensure every image looks stunning—no matter the setting.

How do I book?
It’s easy! Click the button below to choose your session date and secure your spot.

🎁 Reserve Your Holiday Portrait Experience Now →


A family portrait session with what to wear when you want to incorporate fun prints and patterned clothing in your session.

A Gift You’ll Treasure for Years

The best memories aren’t made in a rush. This is your chance to slow down, connect, and preserve your family’s story in artful, authentic imagery. With limited availability, we encourage you to act fast—because these 12 sessions will go quickly.

🎄 Secure Your Spot Today →


Why Spring is One of the Best Times for a Photo Session

Featuring the Peterson Family at San Juan Open Spaces

There’s something magical about spring—when nature bursts into color and the air feels fresh and full of promise. At Blue Skys Studio, spring is hands-down one of our favorite seasons for capturing timeless family portraits. The Peterson Family’s recent session at San Juan Open Spaces perfectly shows why.

Peterson family standing together under a lush green tree, surrounded by blooming yellow wildflowers, dressed in rich tones of red and black.

Blooming Backdrops & Golden Light

Spring transforms San Juan Open Spaces into a dream location. Rolling green hills, wildflower fields, and golden sunshine combine to create a soft, romantic atmosphere that flatters every skin tone. During the Petersons’ shoot, yellow blooms and whispering grasses set the scene, beautifully complementing their rich wardrobe palette of reds, blacks, and neutrals.

Why San Juan Open Spaces is a Springtime Favorite

Tucked away just a short drive from the heart of San Juan Capistrano, this open space is a hidden gem. It has a bit of everything, rolling hills, a charming rustic barn, a quiet little creek, and wildflowers as far as the eye can see during spring. It’s the kind of location that makes it easy for families to relax and just be themselves, which is when the best moments happen.

Family posed in front of a wooden fence with a hillside blooming in yellow behind them, radiating a fun, confident energy with pops of red and black in their outfits.

For the Petersons, we started in the wide open meadow before moving closer to the trees for some shade and contrast. Every turn felt like a different scene from a storybook.

Spring Style: Light Layers and Rich Colors

Spring weather in Southern California is mild, which means it’s ideal for wearing a mix of textures like denim, soft cotton, and light jackets. The Peterson family chose coordinating outfits in deep reds, blacks, and neutrals that stood out beautifully against the golden flowers. Their looks were stylish yet relaxed perfect for letting their personalities shine through.

Sisters standing back-to-back in a sunlit wildflower field, one in a red dress with gothic details, the other in a black peplum top and skirt, with soft smiles and flowing hair.

Couple standing side by side in a sun-drenched field of daisies and mustard flowers, smiling with hills and blue sky in the background.

The Magic of Natural Spring Light

Let’s not forget the light. Spring offers some of the most flattering natural light of the year—soft, golden, and just warm enough to give everything a lovely glow. It’s especially stunning in the late afternoon, right before golden hour. With this kind of light, we don’t have to do much nature does the heavy lifting.

Entire family walking into a field of tall yellow wildflowers, framed by rolling green hills and springtime blooms under a bright sky.

Ready to book your spring family session?
Let’s head to the flower fields before the season fades. Spots fill up fast once the blooms begin, so reach out early to get your perfect date!

Want to Know More About This Location?

San Juan Open Spaces is one of my favorite hidden gems—especially when spring wildflowers are in full bloom. If you’re curious about what it looks like during peak season or want more ideas for your own session, check out my earlier blog posts on the California Super Bloom. Trust me, it’s worth the scroll. Click Here!

✅ Ready to take the next step?
Visit Blue Skys Studios  for free tools, deeper guides, and insider content made just for readers like you.

Transform Your Home with Custom Wall Art from Your Orange County Photography Session

Your home should be a reflection of your unique story, and there’s no better way to showcase it than with custom wall art from your recent photography session. At Blue Sky’s Studio in Orange County, we make it easy to turn your cherished moments into stunning wall art that perfectly fits your space. Here’s how our personalized process works, ensuring you get the ideal design for your home.

Step 1: Select Your Perfect Photos

After your photography session, you’ll meet with us for a personalized review appointment to explore all your beautiful images. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece or a custom gallery wall, we’ll help you select the perfect photos that represent your family, milestone, or special moment. Our expert team will guide you in choosing the images that best fit your style.

Step 2: Custom Editing and Design

Once you’ve selected your favorite images, our team will professionally edit each photo to ensure they’re flawless. We then design a custom wall art layout tailored to your space, considering size, composition, and orientation for a harmonious display. Whether you want a large focal point or a well-coordinated gallery, our designs are always customized to your vision.

Step 3: Visualize Your Wall Art in Your Home

One of the standout features of our service is our advanced design program, which lets us digitally place your selected images on your actual walls. Simply send us a photo of your wall space, and we’ll show you a realistic preview of how your custom wall art will look. This ensures that each piece will perfectly fit your space, taking the guesswork out of the process.

Step 4: Bring Your Vision to Life

Once you’re happy with the design, we bring it to life by printing your custom wall art on premium materials, such as canvas, metal, or framed prints. Each piece is carefully crafted to ensure vibrant colors, durability, and a timeless finish that will preserve your memories for years to come.

Step 5: Enjoy Your Custom Wall Art

The final step is simple: enjoy your custom wall art! With your beautiful new pieces hanging on the walls, your home will be filled with warmth, personality, and the special moments captured in your photography session. Not only will these pieces enhance your decor, but they’ll also serve as daily reminders of your most cherished memories.

Book Your Photography Session Today

Ready to transform your home with custom wall art? Start by booking your photography session with Blue Sky’s Studio today. From capturing your special moments to designing timeless artwork, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Contact us now to schedule your personalized review appointment and start creating the custom wall art of your dreams.

Let’s create something beautiful together!

🖼️ FAQ: How to Turn Family Photos Into Beautiful Wall Art for Your Home

1. What is the best way to display family photos on your walls?

The most popular options include gallery walls, canvas prints, framed enlargements, metal or acrylic prints, and photo ledges. A gallery wall with mixed frame sizes is a modern and timeless choice for living rooms and hallways.

2. How do I choose the right size for wall art from my family photos?

A good rule of thumb:

  • Above a couch or bed: Choose a large statement piece (at least 24×36) or a set of 2–3 medium prints.

  • Staircase or hallway: Go with a gallery wall featuring various sizes like 11×14, 16×20, or 8×10. Mock-up apps like WallApp or Canva can help you visualize sizes before printing.

3. What are the best materials for printing family photo wall art?

Top choices:

  • Canvas: Warm, timeless, no glass glare.

  • Framed prints: Classic and versatile.

  • Metal prints: Sleek and modern, great for high-contrast images.

  • Acrylic prints: Glossy, vibrant, and contemporary.

4. How do I hang family photo wall art perfectly straight?

Use a level, painter’s tape, and measuring tape to mark your wall first. Hanging templates or frame kits from stores like Target or Amazon can help. For gallery walls, lay your arrangement on the floor first, then trace the layout onto the wall.

5. Should I hang family photos in every room?

Yes—strategically. Try:

  • Living room: A bold statement piece or family gallery wall

  • Hallways: A photo timeline or travel memories

  • Bedrooms: Soft, personal moments (black and white looks great)

  • Entryway: Welcoming, smiling faces

6. How do I design a gallery wall with family photos?

Stick to a theme (black-and-white, all color, or all candid), use cohesive frames, and keep spacing consistent (2–3 inches apart). Layouts like grids, stair-step, or salon-style (randomized) work well.

7. What is the best lighting for family photo wall art?

Natural light is great, but avoid direct sun to prevent fading. Add picture lights, spotlights, or LED strips above frames to highlight your photos at night.

8. Can I change my wall art seasonally or yearly?

Absolutely! Use easy-swap frames or gallery ledges for simple updates. Consider seasonal photos, yearly portraits, or new family milestones to refresh your walls without redoing everything.

9. Where can I order high-quality prints for wall art?

Top-rated sites include:

  • Artifact Uprising – artisan quality, minimalist style

  • Mpix – color-accurate and durable

  • Canva or Shutterfly – user-friendly and customizable

  • Small local print labs – support local, often better quality control

10. What’s trending in family wall art right now?

Trending styles include:

  • Black and white photo walls

  • Oversized canvas prints

  • Mix of candid and posed shots

  • Floating frames or frameless metal prints

  • Neutral-toned or desaturated edits for a modern feel


Can you believe how amazing the California Super Bloom is? If you have dreamed of a flower field photography session, now is the time to book while they are still in bloom. I have literally been waiting years for the mustard to grow this lush once again. I took this image in 2013, the last time we had a super bloom.

Fast forward to 2019 and the mustard is once again blooming and looking so gorgeous. I was lucky enough to help celebrate this gorgeous girl’s first birthday! My mother in Law, Ginny, gave the Anderson’s a gift certificate for their wedding present to get a family portrait. The Anderson’s raise service dogs. They have such big hearts to raise a dog from the puppy stage and bond with it. Then once the dog reaches 18 months, they give it to a person needing a service dog. Unfortunately, their now family dog, Siri, didn’t make it through the program. The good news is, she got to stay with the family and become the fourth member of the Anderson family.

Baby Olivia was a totally dream to photograph. With her sweet dimples and even better disposition, she actually loved the camera. Thanks so much to the Anderson family for braving the chilly weather in order to make sure that the fields were still blooming. Enjoy!

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If you want to take advantage of this year’s super bloom, go to Blue Sky’s Studio website and click contact us. Or click on this button.