Parents are opting for private photo sessions instead of Santa

Classic Santa photo shoots are a tradition that spans generations — but these days, parents are opting for something a little less conventional.

Instead of having their kids sit on a mall Santa’s lap for a quick photo, moms in New Orleans are booking private studio sessions with jolly old Saint Nick for a professional photo shoot .

“I feel like new parents are wanting a more personalized experience,” Marianne Sabrier, co-owner of The Red M Studio in Metairie, told Axios.

Besides getting a private moment with Santa, these studio sessions are marketed as more convenient and meaningful than going to the mall.

Sabrier and her husband, Steve, are wedding and lifestyle photographers who started offering studio time four years ago after hearing about experiences going for $1,000 in Texas.

At the time, the pair offered a 10-minute session for $200, during which Santa would read a child’s letter to him or her that was sent in advance by the parents.

However, they did not promote a Santa Claus Experience this year in part because she felt their small business could not compete with the larger studios. However, other countries are having tremendous success, especially when mothers offer their recommendations in Facebook groups.

Chocolate Santa/Gentilly Santa is a New Orleans spot that books fast and allows walk-in, and Don Daigrepont Studio is known for its green-gloved Santa — and also offers pet photography.

Others even offer their own “experience”.

Milestone Photography in New Orleans has “Magic Moments with Santa,” which promises kids and Kris Kringle will “play together” for 30 minutes, read stories, check off the naughty or nice list, learn to the North Pole and more. price of $375 – a $250 package plus a $125 session fee.

Meanwhile, the nearby Lakeside Mall offers most Santa photos for just $25.

Many moms can book private sessions with Santa, but mall Santas aren’t a thing of the past just yet, Axios reported. The lakeside is still expected to have long queues, especially in the week before Christmas.