What to Wear for Santa Photos in Annapolis & Baltimore, MD: Outfit Ideas for Holiday Portraits

By Amanda Gargano | Paint The Stars Photography

Serving families in Annapolis, Maryland and Baltimore, Maryland — capturing the wonder and magic of the holiday season through timeless Santa portraits.

There’s something truly special about Santa photos in Annapolis and Baltimore — the laughter, the sparkle in your child’s eyes, the cozy moments under twinkling lights. But one question always comes up:

“What should we wear so that our Santa photos look timeless and beautiful?”

You want outfits that feel festive now, but that you’ll still love when you look back years from today. Choosing the right color palette, textures, and coordination makes all the difference for your Santa photo session in Maryland — whether it’s a cozy indoor studio setup or a festive outdoor holiday backdrop.

In this post, you’ll find expert styling tips, local-friendly outfit examples, and color palettes that photograph beautifully in Santa sessions near Annapolis and Baltimore.

I also made an outfit guide for Maternity Photography sessions. Check it out here.

What to Wear for Your Maternity Photoshoot

Why Outfit Choices Matter

When you book your Santa portraits in Annapolis or Baltimore, your wardrobe plays a huge role in how magical the final photos look.

• Timelessness: Avoid overly themed or trendy holiday clothing so your photos stay classic for years.

• Cohesion: Coordinated family outfits (without being too matchy-matchy) create balance and keep the focus on your family’s connection.

• Photograph-Friendly Fabrics & Colors: Soft, textured materials like knits, velvet, or lace photograph beautifully under warm studio lights.

• Comfort: Happy, comfortable kids = genuine smiles. Choose cozy, non-itchy fabrics and comfortable layers for those Maryland winter temperatures.

Outfit Ideas That Feel Timeless & Beautiful

Style / Theme	What to Wear	Why It Works	Local Tip
Classic Holiday Colors	Rich reds, deep greens, creamy whites, and subtle gold accents	These colors feel instantly festive and complement Santa’s red suit perfectly.	Works beautifully with indoor Santa sessions in Annapolis or outdoor holiday photo setups in Baltimore.
Neutrals with a Pop	Cream, beige, ivory, or soft gray with one pop of color (like red or gold)	Timeless and elegant — these tones age well and flatter every skin tone.	In Maryland’s cooler December weather, add texture with scarves or cardigans.
Textures & Layers	Velvet, cable knits, wool, lace, faux fur trims	Adds richness and depth to your portraits.	Layer for warmth if you’re doing outdoor Santa photos near Baltimore’s Inner Harbor or other local holiday events.
Plaid & Patterns (used sparingly)	Classic red tartan, small fair isle prints, or subtle stripes	Adds holiday charm without overpowering the photo.	Perfect for cozy, traditional Santa sessions in Annapolis.
Coordinated Family Palette	Choose 2–3 colors that repeat across everyone’s outfits	Keeps your portraits cohesive without feeling overly matched.	Great for extended family sessions popular around Baltimore County.
Elegant Holiday Formal	Velvet dresses, satin skirts, button-down shirts, and dress shoes	Adds a polished, heirloom feel to your portraits.	Ideal for studio Santa portraits in Maryland — especially if you’re using your photos for Christmas cards.
Cozy Pajama Style	Matching holiday pajamas, flannel sets, soft knit socks	Creates relaxed, intimate memories — perfect for kids.	Great choice for indoor Santa sessions in Annapolis or at-home setups in Baltimore suburbs.

What to Avoid for Santa Photos

To keep your holiday portraits in Maryland looking timeless:

• Skip large logos or character prints — they distract from your family and can look dated.

• Avoid neon or ultra-bright colors that clash with festive tones.

• Steer clear of overly bulky layers that hide faces.

• Make sure shoes and accessories are clean and polished.

10 Ways to Use Your Family Photos for Thoughtful Holiday Gifts

Accessories & Footwear Tips

For Santa photo sessions near Annapolis or Baltimore, details matter:

• Footwear: Polished boots, dress shoes, or nice flats photograph best. Bring an extra pair if you’re outdoors.

• Accessories: Scarves, hats, and festive jewelry add personality — think simple and intentional.

• Props: A cozy blanket, a wreath, or matching mugs can add charm without overwhelming your photos.

• Hair & Makeup: Think stage makeup. The studio lights tend to wash out features so apply makeup a bit heavier than normal. Hair styling should be seen from the front. So hair down or a pretty side braid. If the hair style is in the back you won't see too much of it in the photos.

Local Maryland Tips for Santa Sessions

Every area has its own lighting and weather quirks, so here are a few local tips for Annapolis and Baltimore Santa photos:

• Lighting: Many Annapolis Santa setups use warm studio lighting — neutrals, deep greens, and reds look best.

• Weather: If you’re attending outdoor Santa sessions in Baltimore, plan for layers and warm accessories — Maryland Decembers can get chilly!

• Backdrops: If your setup includes rich red tones or rustic wood, choose outfits that balance those colors (like neutrals or greens).

• Traffic & Timing: Holiday weekends in downtown Annapolis or Baltimore can be busy — arrive early so you’re not rushed!

Sample Outfit Combinations

Here are a few Maryland-family-approved outfit combinations that photograph beautifully in Santa photo sessions:

1.Classic Christmas Palette

Mom: ivory sweater + forest green velvet skirt + tan ankle boots

Dad: khaki pants + cream cable knit sweater

Kids: ivory dress or green jumper with red bow or suspenders

2.Neutral with a Pop

Family in shades of beige and white with pops of red (scarves, bows, or cardigans)

3.Plaid & Solids

Child in red tartan dress; parents in olive and cream solids that complement the pattern

4.Cozy Pajamas

Matching plaid PJs, fuzzy socks, and a festive blanket prop — great for studio Santa setups in Annapolis

5.Elegant & Formal

Velvet dress for mom, collared shirt and vest for dad, dressy outfit for kids — perfect for holiday card photos in Baltimore

If you’re planning Santa photos in Annapolis or Baltimore, Maryland, let’s make them magical and memorable.

I offer beautifully styled Santa sessions in Maryland that include wardrobe guidance and a warm, personalized experience your children will never forget.

✨ Book your Santa session today with Paint The Stars Photography and capture the timeless magic of Christmas in every smile.

Click here to book your Santa session or paintthestarsphotography.com/the-santa-experience.

Book Your Santa Session Now

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What to Wear for Santa Photos in Annapolis & Baltimore, MD: Outfit Ideas for Holiday Portraits

What to Wear for Santa Photos in Annapolis & Baltimore, MD: Outfit Ideas for Holiday Portraits

Why Outfit Choices Matter

Outfit Ideas That Feel Timeless & Beautiful

What to Avoid for Santa Photos

Accessories & Footwear Tips

Local Maryland Tips for Santa Sessions

Sample Outfit Combinations

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