Scarborough is home for me. I'm Jo, a Scarborough-based family photographer, and every December I photograph about 150 families at my Christmas mini sessions in Toronto and across the GTA. Many of them are neighbours right here in Scarborough who want one easy, beautiful holiday photo moment before the season gets busy.
This guide covers what Scarborough families need to know: which studio to choose, dates, price, and how to get the most out of 20 minutes.
Christmas Minis at a Glance
Price: $299 ($149 + HST booking fee, $150 after your shoot)
Included: 20 professionally edited photos, chosen by you from a larger gallery
Session: 20-minute slot (about 15 minutes of shooting)
Delivery: 5–7 days, private online gallery
Group size: up to 5 people per slot (bigger families can book two slots)
Dates: Nov 29 – Dec 20, 2026
Studios: Icon Studio Space (Toronto), Glasshouse Studios (Richmond Hill), The Ruby Manor (Brampton)
Reviews: 300+ five-star Google reviews
Which studio is best for Scarborough families?
All three studios are fully decorated for Christmas, so you only need to pick the look you love and a date that works.
Icon Studio Space, Toronto: The White Room, Iconic Room and Art Room. A popular choice for Scarborough families who want to stay in the city. Street parking only.
Glasshouse Studios, Richmond Hill: The Amalia and Sophia rooms. This is the only studio where pets are welcome, so choose Glasshouse if your dog is part of the photo. On-site parking.
The Ruby Manor, Brampton: A heritage home with the Paris, Milan and Whistler rooms. On-site parking.
You'll get parking and arrival details by email after you book.
What a Christmas mini looks like
You arrive about 15 minutes early, and the set is already styled. I guide you through natural, relaxed poses: hugs, giggles, little ones reaching for ornaments. Most families say it feels quick and fun rather than "posed." Within 5–7 days you'll get a private gallery, choose your favourite 20, and have them edited and ready for Christmas cards and gifts.
Bringing a baby or toddler? Come fed and rested. A mini is a short window, so I work gently and quickly to get as much as possible. If your little one usually needs a lot of settling time, a full family session gives more room.
Tips for Scarborough families
Book weekends early. Saturday and Sunday mornings are the first to go.
Plan outfits ahead. Our Christmas outfit guide has colour ideas that suit every studio.
Make it a tradition. Many families come back every year, and seeing the kids grow in the same kind of setting is magical. Here's why families make it a yearly tradition.
Want outdoor photos in spring or summer? I also shoot family sessions at the Scarborough Bluffs.
Frequently asked questions
Do you have a Christmas mini studio in Scarborough?
Not this year. The 2026 sessions are at three styled studios in Toronto, Richmond Hill and Brampton, and Scarborough families book all three. Many choose the Toronto dates at Icon Studio Space.
How much is a Christmas mini session?
$299: a $149 + HST booking fee to reserve, and $150 after your shoot. That includes 20 edited photos, with no extra packages to buy. See the full cost breakdown.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, at Glasshouse Studios in Richmond Hill. Icon Studio Space and The Ruby Manor don't allow pets.
How many people can be in one session?
One slot works best for up to 5 people. For larger or extended families, book two back-to-back slots.
When will I get my photos?
Within 5–7 days, usually sooner. Sessions in the final week are delivered by Dec 24.
Book your Scarborough family's Christmas photos
See all 2026 dates and studios for Christmas mini sessions in Toronto and pick your spot. If you have a question first, send me a message. I'm right here in Scarborough.
