The countdown to Christmas is on, and that means one thing: it’s nearly time to wrangle the kids into their festive best and queue up for Santa photos. Whether you’re after a classic shopping centre experience or something a little more unique, Adelaide has plenty of options to capture that magical moment.
Most Santa photo sessions open for bookings in early to mid-November, so it pays to get in quick. Popular spots can book out fast, especially for weekend sessions and any pet-friendly time slots.
Shopping centre Santa photos
Adelaide’s major shopping centres roll out their Santa sets each year, and they’re often the most convenient option for families. Here’s where to find the big guy:
Westfield centres
Westfield Tea Tree Plaza and Westfield Marion both offer Santa photo experiences each year. These are typically paid sessions with professional photographers, and you can pre-book online to skip the queue. Keep an eye on the Westfield website from early November for booking details.
Burnside Village
Burnside Village usually sets up a beautifully styled Santa experience. It’s a popular choice for families in the eastern suburbs, so booking ahead is recommended once sessions open.
Myer Centre Adelaide
Right in the heart of the CBD, the Myer Centre offers Santa photos that are easy to combine with a city shopping trip. Check their website or social media for this year’s opening dates and booking information.
David Jones
David Jones on Rundle Mall has a long tradition of Santa visits. Their Magic Cave sessions tend to have a classic, elegant feel. Bookings usually open in November.
Local shopping centres
Don’t overlook your local shopping centre. Many suburban centres across Adelaide run their own Santa photo sessions, often at a lower price point than the big names. Check with your nearest centre for details, as these can be a great option for younger children who might feel overwhelmed by bigger crowds.
Free Santa experiences
If you’d prefer to keep things budget-friendly, keep an eye out for free Santa appearances at community events, local markets and council Christmas celebrations. These often pop up throughout December and can be a lovely, low-key way for kids to meet Santa without the pressure of a formal photo session. Check your local council’s events calendar as December approaches.
Pet-friendly Santa photos
Want to include the furry family member? Some venues offer dedicated pet-friendly sessions where your dog, cat or other pet can join in the festive fun. These sessions are usually held at specific times, often early in the morning or after regular hours, to keep things calm for both animals and other visitors.
Check with individual shopping centres about their pet photo policies. Westfield centres have previously offered pet nights, and some local centres also welcome pets during designated sessions. These book out quickly, so jump online as soon as bookings open if this is on your Christmas list.
Tips for a smooth Santa photo experience
- Book early. Popular time slots, especially weekends and pet sessions, fill up fast once bookings open in November.
- Go at a quiet time. Weekday mornings are often less chaotic than weekends, which can make all the difference with little ones.
- Bring a backup outfit. Because spills happen, especially when excitement levels are high.
- Prepare your child. If they’re nervous about sitting with Santa, chat about what to expect beforehand. Some venues offer a gentle approach for anxious kids.
- Check the inclusions. Some packages include digital images, prints or both. Compare what’s included before you book.
However you choose to capture the magic this year, the most important thing is enjoying the moment with your family. And if the photo involves tears, a blurry dog or a sibling mid-argument? Well, those often end up being the ones you treasure most.
*Hero image from Westfield
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