One of the best keepsakes you can create this holiday season is a 3D photo crystal or framed picture of your children sitting on Santa’s knee. If you  are preparing to take your little ones to have a photo with the big man himself, you might want to take a few minutes to prepare them for the encounter – after all, not all children enjoy their first experience with what to them is a big, scary bearded gnome.

In order to ensure you get the best shot possible so that you can create a lovely unique personalised laser engraved gift, here is a list of tips to help your child overcome their fear of Santa and get the perfect photo.

• Go slow and gently introduce Santa – Take your little one to the Mall or the nearby Christmas Market on a few “test runs” before planning to take the photo. Allow them to see the other children approaching Santa with no fear, and let them get close to him. Use encouraging words and tell them how nice Santa is – they have nothing to fear. On your third or fourth visit, it is a good time to attempt the photo.
• Ask around for a Santa who has experience with small children – It is always a good idea to ask friends and family if they know of a local Santa who is exceptionally good with hesitant experience – his calm demeanor will work wonders when it comes to grabbing that great shot.
• Don’t be pushy or punish – If the first attempt does not go well, be very gentle and loving. If you are too pushy or scolding you will cement bad feelings towards Kris Kringle.
• Climb on Santa’s lap with your child – Sometimes you just have to join ’em! If your child sees that you are not afraid, they are less likely to be afraid themselves. You might be able to slowly back out of the frame, but even if you remain in the photo it will still be a lovely memory worthy of a unique engraved photo gift.
• Know when to call it quits – This just might not be the year for a serene and happy photo with Santa – you might just have to accept that a screaming baby is the best you are going to do. After all – these photos can be equally cute in the long run!