How much money does the average parent spend to feature their kids on their Christmas card every year? I don’t know the answer but I do know I want to be below the average. As my wife and I prepare our first Christmas card with our new little guy, we tried a simple approach that worked magnificently. What you’ll need:

• 1 Red Blanket

• 1 Santa Hat

• 1 Diaper

Lay the blanket in a well light room, put the hat on little one’s head, and start snapping photos. The diaper is optional but who wants a Christmas card of a naked baby? Plus, an accident during the shoot could get a little messy.

After lots of fun and lots of pictures we now have a charming holiday shot of his cute little face smiling up at the camera from under the Santa hat.

When you compare this method to the cost of buying a “Christmas outfit” for the picture and paying professional photographer fees, the simple approach is a clear winner. Plus it’s more fun!