One of the most amazing things about being a photographer of children this time of year is seeing all the parents plan special moments for their little ones. I’m sure you are doing it too: Making gingerbread houses at Acorn Cafe, taking rides through the New Orleans City Park lights, shopping along Magazine St. for those precious holiday outfits and the many opportunities for photos with Santa.

December is New Orleans is a month for magical photos, and although my camera is looking forward, it’s the power of the moms, dads, aunts and grandparents standing behind me cheering on those wee ones that truly is the highlight of my day. We are all there to capture just a little bit of that childhood magic.

This month we surprised my daughter with a 16th birthday party (gasp!). In preparation, I put together a slideshow filled with years of funny and touching moments. After hours of sifting through all of the years of photos, and many tears, I’m here to remind you how quickly you will be here, too.

 One of my all time favorite moments is the first time my daughter met Santa (see above). She was not pleased to be dropped on his lap and instantly started to scream. I quickly turned to the photographer and motioned that it was okay to take a “bad” photo. It’s still one of my most cherished childhood memories of my daughter who was only 1 at the time.

My photographer tip is don’t worry about getting the perfect picture. All those big feelings, sibling rivalries and squirmy baby feet serve as a time capsule for their childhood. Don’t be afraid to embrace that imperfect photo if your child decides a white bearded stranger is just a little too scary. This is such a fleeting moment in their little life and one you will all laugh at someday. Keep taking even the “bad” photos, especially during all of the holiday moments.