In 1962, the Viydo family purchased the Santa Photography business and set out to build what has become the longest-running Christmas tradition in the country. And like the long tradition that preceded its current ownership, Arthur & Associates is committed to keeping the magic and mystery of Santa alive. Having operated Santa Photo programs for the former Frederick & Nelson department stores for nearly 30 years, Arthur & Associates currently provides both Santa and Easter Bunny photography for a variety of shopping centers, department stores and communities – now serving third and fourth generation visitors. With over 50 years of experience Arthur & Associates knows how to have a memorable Santa experience and photo. Here are some tips to help you this holiday season!
1. Check the calendar - New this year, Arthur & Associates has calendars with each location that includes the dates and times they are open but also gives you approximate wait times based on their past experience. Choose a date that has no line/small line for the best experience. Of course, these times are all rough estimates and will vary throughout the day. Come as early in the holiday season as possible, the lines get longer once area schools start their holiday breaks.
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2. Don't Force It - Ok, I have learned this one the hard way. To make this a fun experience for everyone, including the kiddos, relax. I know we all want that perfect photo, but forcing it never works. Let the kids decide if they want to sit on Santa's lap, if they want to talk to Santa, even if they want to smile. You may not like the decisions they are making, but if they are comfortable with the experience they will enjoy it more. My very shy son, will not sit on Santa's lap, and he really doesn't smile, but he loves going to see Santa each year. Santa knows this also and will never force your child to do something they don't want to do.
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3. Put Yourself in the Picture - Who says Santa photos are just for the kids? Make it a family or friend affair and invite the ones you love the most. These pictures are memories, something you will keep and look back on throughout your and your kids' lives. I am sure it will make it more special for everyone to see all the special people in their lives, including you!
4. Baby's First Photo? - Are you nervous for baby's first photo with Santa? Did last year not go so well? Don't worry! The photographers and Santa have done this so many times, they have many tricks up their sleeves. Ask them for help. Here are some of my tips - Pick the time of the day that your child is the happiest. Let them bring their comfort items; a special teddy bear, blanket, etc. If you think your baby or toddler won't be happy with Santa, pick them up and put them on Santa's lap by keeping their back to Santa and keeping eye contact with you. Once they figure out what is happening the photo is taken. Stay where your child can see you, either off to the side or behind the camera. Always be prepared that you may have to be in the photo with them. Last, but not least, just relax. With my kids, the pictures when they were 1 year old or less, they were good. It was the next year that was not so good. They are way more aware what was happening.
| 11 Months Old | 2 Years Old |
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5. Make it a Yearly Tradition - My family has been doing Santa photos with Arthur & Associates since 1972! We have all the pictures in an album. We all love looking at them every Christmas. It is really something we treasure. We also make a whole evening out of our Santa photos. We make a plan to meet, get the pictures taken, and then all go out to dinner. It is a great excuse to have a relaxing evening with the whole family, it gets us into the holiday spirit, and the cousins love being able to see each other.
| 1972 | 2015 |
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Santa pictures with Arthur & Associates have always been a part of our holiday tradition and I hope you will make it a part of yours also! Arthur & Associates are in 7 different locations through out the area; Bellevue Square, Town Center at Lake Forest Park, Redmond Town Center, University Village, Everett Mall, SevenOaks, The Commons at Federal Way, and Renton Landing. For more information on locations, times, and prices head on over to their website or check their Facebook Page.
Happy Holidays!
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