Capturing Holiday Joy: Returning as Watson Realty’s Christmas Party Photographer

Every year, I find myself drawn back to the lens, taking on the challenge of capturing the magic of the holiday season. Once again, I have the honor of being the event photographer for Watson Realty’s annual Children's Christmas Party. This event, filled with laughter, joy, and the excitement of the holiday spirit, is always a wonderful experience to document.

Photography, like any craft, is a journey of continuous growth. Each event I shoot provides me with new lessons, sharper instincts, and a refined ability to tell a story through images. Over the years, I have covered countless events—both grand and intimate. Even while serving in the military, I was entrusted to photograph milestone occasions, including retirement ceremonies, remembrance ceremonies, changes of command, and various gatherings held by local businesses and lodges. These experiences shaped my approach to event photography, allowing me to anticipate the perfect moments and work seamlessly within the unique dynamics of each setting.

Challenges and Triumphs Along the Way

Each event presents its own set of challenges. Lighting conditions can change in an instant, children rarely stay still for posed shots, and sometimes the most meaningful moments happen in the blink of an eye. At one years Christmas Party, I had to adapt quickly to a dimly lit venue while ensuring that every child’s face glowed with excitement in the photos. Fast adjustments to camera settings, strategic positioning, and a keen eye for natural light made all the difference.

On the other hand, the success stories make it all worthwhile. There’s nothing quite like delivering a collection of images that bring smiles to families and capture the true essence of an event. One of my favorite moments was capturing a young child’s awe-struck expression and leaps of joy as they met Santa for the first time—an image that became one of the family’s most cherished holiday memories.

Looking Ahead

As I prepared to once again document Watson Realty’s Christmas celebration, I look forward to the opportunities ahead, and try to ensure, as much as possible to think of any situation that might arise. It's never perfect because the future is always a mystery. Events like these are more than just assignments; they are experiences that help me perfect my craft and reinforce my love for photography.

With every event I shoot, I strengthen my ability to work in fast-paced environments, anticipate key moments, and connect with the people I photograph. I am grateful for the trust that clients place in me, and I am excited for the many gatherings, celebrations, and milestones yet to come. Whether it’s a festive holiday party or a formal military ceremony, I approach each occasion with the same passion and dedication—knowing that every moment I capture will tell a story for years to come.

Be sure to check out the attached video for a look at my process and some of my favorite moments from the Watson 2024 event!