Christmas Mini photoshoots in the hills Sydney


There's something about Christmas photos in a paddock that no studio backdrop can replicate. Real grass under your feet. Golden afternoon light. A gentle giant of a horse standing patiently beside your kids. Or a mini pony who barely comes up to your waist and somehow steals every single shot.


This December, Hergott Photography is running two very special outdoor Christmas mini session weekends on a private property in Maraylya — right in the heart of Sydney's Hills District, within easy reach of Rouse Hill, Box Hill, The Gables, Pitt Town, and the wider Hawkesbury area.


Two weekends. Two completely different vibes. Both unforgettable.

Weekend One: Christmas with Cruz the Shire Horse


Cruz is a Shire horse — big, beautiful, and surprisingly calm for his size. There's something genuinely magical about standing next to a horse that towers over you while he quietly nuzzles the nearest person for a treat.


Weekend one is built around Cruz. Think deep green paddock, festive garlands, soft December light, and the kind of photos that become the family Christmas card. Cruz is patient and makes for a stunning backdrop for families, couples, and groups.


📅 Dates are Coming...

📍 Private property, Maraylya NSW (exact address provided at booking confirmation)

Weekend Two: Christmas with Piccolina the Mini Pony


Then there's the mini pony Picci. Small in stature, enormous in personality.

Kids absolutely lose their minds for a mini pony, and honestly, adults aren't far behind. Weekend two is a little lighter, a little more playful — perfect if you've got littles who might find a full-sized horse a bit overwhelming, or you just want something genuinely different for your Christmas photos this year.

Same beautiful private paddock. Same light. Very different energy but still merry.

📅 Dates are coming...

📍 Private property, Maraylya NSW (exact address provided at booking confirmation)

What's Included in Your Christmas Mini Session?


Each booking includes:

A 20-minute outdoor photo session at our private Maraylya paddock

  • Festive props and decorations set up and ready for you
  • 8 high-resolution digital images of your choice, delivered via your personalised online gallery within 5 business days
  • The ability to order prints, wall art, Christmas cards, and photo ornaments directly through your gallery or additional images or full gallery upgrade for only 200$
  • A relaxed, unhurried experience (no shopping centre queues, no strangers walking past)


Session price: $290 per family

Please note this is a mini session — 20 minutes includes arrival, getting set up, and your photos. Come with a rough idea of any specific shots you'd love, and we'll guide you through the rest.

Photos are for private use. If you need commercial use rights, please contact Eva before booking.

Who Is This For?


This session is perfect for:

  • Families with kids of any age who want something a bit special for Christmas photos this year
  • Horse lovers who want a festive photo experience without needing to bring their own horse
  • Couples who want something relaxed and outdoors rather than a studio setup
  • Anyone in Rouse Hill, Box Hill, The Gables, Pitt Town, Maraylya, Windsor, or surrounding Hills District and Hawkesbury areas looking for a local Christmas photographer


Where Exactly Is This?


Sessions are held on a private property in Maraylya, in Sydney's Hawkesbury region. It's a short drive from Rouse Hill, Box Hill, The Gables, and Pitt Town — roughly 15–20 minutes from most of the Hills District.


Exact address, parking instructions, and property directions are sent with your booking confirmation. It's easy to find, there's on-site parking, and the vibe is genuinely lovely — a proper country paddock feel without a long drive out of Sydney.

How to Book?

Spots are limited and these sessions tend to fill quickly, especially the mini pony weekend.

Spots will open in September, in the meantime you can join the waitlist


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FAQ Christmas Mini PHotoshoot with a horse

How much does the Christmas mini session cost and what does it include?

Each session is $290 per family. It includes a 20-minute outdoor photo session, festive props, and 8 high-resolution digital files of your choice delivered within 5 business days via a personalised online gallery. From the gallery you can also order prints, Christmas cards, tree ornaments with your photo on them, and other products or additional prints or upgrade to download all photos for only $200

I have my own horse — can I bring them instead of using yours?

This particular event uses the resident horses on the property. If you'd like a session with your own horse, Eva offers separate equine photography sessions throughout the year feel free to get in touch to discuss Christmas themed mini photoshoots with your horse :)

Can I reschedule my booking?

Yes, free of charge, as long as there's availability and you contact us at least 48 hours before your session. Email eva@sydneyfamilyphotography.au to request a reschedule.

What if the weather is bad?

Sessions go ahead in most weather conditions. In the case of genuinely extreme weather (think severe storm warnings or extreme heat), we'll work with you to reschedule or offer a refund. A little overcast sky is actually great for photography — it softens the light beautifully.

When will I receive my photos?

Your gallery will be ready within 5 business days of your session. You'll receive an email with a link to your personalised private gallery where you can choose your 10 included images and order any additional files or printed products.

Can I bring my dog?

No - While I am a dog friendly photographer, this mini photoshoot with the horses is not dog friendly.

How do I know which weekend to book?

If you have very young kids or children who might feel nervous around large horses, the mini pony weekend is a great pick. If you're after something a bit more dramatic and striking — particularly if you're planning wall art — Cruz the Shire horse is a showstopper. Both produce beautiful photos; it really comes down to the feel you're after and how confident your family is around horses

What is the cancellation policy?

Cancel more than 7 days before your session: full refund, less a $15 processing fee
Cancel 2–7 days before: 50% refund, less a $15 processing fee
Cancel within 48 hours, or no-show: no refund

You can also transfer your booking to another person at no extra charge — just email us with the new person's details.

How do I pay for the Christmas Mini photoshoot?

Payment is required at the time of booking. We accept Visa, Mastercard, and Amex via Stripe, as well as PayPal. We don't accept cash on the day.

What should we wear?

There's no strict dress code, but earthy tones, warm neutrals, and festive colours (deep greens, burgundy, navy, cream) tend to photograph beautifully against a paddock backdrop. Avoid very bright whites or neon colours, and wear comfortable closed shoes — you'll be on grass. A touch of Christmas colour is always fun.