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Looking for the best Santa photos in Sydney for 2026? Whether you're after a traditional family portrait, a beachside snap with Santa or something a little different, Sydney has plenty of festive photo experiences to choose from.
From the Christmas magic of Martin Place and Myer's Santaland to pet-friendly sessions, Sensitive Santa and private photography studios, we've rounded up our favourite places to meet the man in red. Discover where to book Santa photos in Sydney this Christmas, including locations, dates, prices and experiences for every family.
Table of Contents
Jump to venues near you:
Sydney CBD
- Santa in the City – Martin Place
- Santaland at Myer
- David Jones
- Santa at the Summit
- High Tea With Santa at The QVB
Eastern Suburbs
Inner West
Hills District
West & Greater West
South Sydney
North Shore and the Northern Beaches
Sensitive Santa and Auslan Photos
Santa in the City at Martin Place
One of Sydney's most iconic Christmas photo experiences is back to light up Martin Place with festive sparkle! Santa in the City brings the magic to life inside Santa's House, where families can meet the jolly man himself, snap a professional photo and soak up the twinkling Christmas atmosphere in the heart of Sydney.
From first-time visits to cherished annual traditions, this enchanting family favourite is perfect for capturing your children's Christmas joy. Every booking helps spread the cheer, too — $5 from each booking will be donated to Variety – The Children's Charity, supporting kids and families in need across NSW and the ACT.
Santa will be at Martin Place right through to Christmas Eve, and sessions fill fast, so book online and make this Christmas sparkle with heart!
Where: Martin Place, Sydney, between George and Pitt Streets
When: Sessions run from 27 November to 24 December 2026 |
Cost: Packages from $29.95
Bookings: via Santa Photography
RELATED:
Top Christmas Events in Sydney in 2026
Santa Photos at The Grounds of Alexandria
Santa's had a rather stylish makeover at The Grounds of Alexandria this Christmas, and we're loving his fresh new look! Forget the traditional red suit – for 2026, the big man is rocking mint green in a peppermint-inspired Christmas setting that's bright, playful and full of festive personality.
This year's photos have moved to The Garden, where families can step into a minty-green festive hideaway for a professional Christmas snap. Each five-minute session includes time to share those all-important wish lists, one printed 6 x 8-inch photograph and three digital images emailed within 24 hours. Even better, well-behaved pets are welcome to join the family portrait!
The Grounds is also offering limited evening photography sessions for families who fancy a little after-dark Christmas magic. With a maximum of six people per booking and sessions already underway, don't leave this one until December!
Where: The Garden, The Grounds of Alexandria, 7A/2 Huntley Street, Alexandria
When: 16 October to 24 December 2026, with additional evening sessions on selected dates
Cost: $70 per session plus booking fees (maximum six people)
Bookings: The Grounds Santa Photos & Evening Sessions
Santaland at Myer
One of Sydney's favourite Christmas traditions is returning to Myer in 2026, and this Santa photo experience comes with a whole North Pole adventure!
From 6 November, families can head to Myer's George Street store, where little passengers can climb aboard the magical Santaland Express for a virtual train journey to the North Pole. Once they've arrived, kids can explore a festive world, get creative with Christmas colouring activities and post their all-important wish lists to the big man himself.
And, of course, there's a chance to meet Santa in person! Families can book a professional photo session, while special experiences such as Baby's First Christmas are also part of Myer's offering. Selected Myer stores offer Santa Paws and sensory-friendly sessions, so check the Sydney booking options for availability.
The best part? Visiting Santaland has traditionally been free, with professional photo packages available to purchase separately. Bookings are essential for 2026, so grab your preferred time slot before the Christmas rush!
Where: Myer Sydney City, 436 George Street, Sydney
When: From Friday 6 November 2026; final session dates to be confirmed
Cost: Entry is FREE; 2026 photo package prices to be confirmed
Bookings: Online at Myer
Santa Photos on the Beach 2026
Who needs snow when you've got sand, surf and Santa? For a Christmas photo with a distinctly Aussie twist, Santa on the Beach Pics is back for 2026, bringing the big man in red (or should we say beachwear!) to some of Sydney's favourite Northern Beaches locations.
Swap shopping centre queues for sandy toes and ocean views as the family joins Mr Claus for a fun, relaxed photo session at South Curl Curl, North Curl Curl, Narrabeen or Bayview. Each five-minute session includes five professionally captured digital images, with your private gallery delivered within five business days. And yes, the family dog can get in on the action too, with dedicated pet-friendly sessions at North Curl Curl and Bayview!
For something extra special, book a premium photo session at Q Station in Manly, where Sydney Harbour provides the backdrop for a 10-minute session with 15 or more digital photos. With beachside photos becoming a favourite Christmas tradition for Sydney families, we'd recommend securing your spot early.
Where: South Curl Curl, North Curl Curl, Narrabeen, Bayview and Q Station, Manly
When: Selected dates from 7 November to 13 December 2026
Cost: Standard sessions $99; premium Q Station sessions $199
Bookings: Santa on the Beach Pics
Westfield Santa Photos Sydney
Santa's heading back to Westfield shopping centres across Sydney for 2026, and there are plenty of ways to capture that all-important Christmas photo! From classic family portraits with the man in red to festive snaps with your four-legged family members, Westfield's Santa photography sessions are back with something for everyone.
Families can book traditional photos, pet photography sessions, or Sensitive Santa experiences, which offer a quieter, more relaxed setting for children with sensory sensitivities. Auslan sessions are also available at selected centres, giving children who communicate using Auslan the chance to share their Christmas wishes directly with an Auslan-fluent Santa. Plus, little visitors receive a special gift to take home!
You'll find Mr Claus at Westfield locations across Sydney, including Bondi Junction, Chatswood, Parramatta, Burwood, Penrith, Miranda and Warringah Mall. All sessions require online bookings, so secure your preferred date before the Christmas rush.
Where: Participating Westfield centres across Sydney
When: Selected dates throughout November and December 2026, varying by centre
Cost: Photo packages vary by location and session type
Bookings: Westfield Santa Photography
David Jones
Santa is returning to Sydney's iconic David Jones on Elizabeth Street, ready to smile along with families (and pooches) in a beautifully themed Christmas studio.
Families can step into the magic for a memorable photo experience, complete with twinkling decor and plenty of holiday spirit. Your four-legged friends are once again invited to join the fun with Santa Pet Photography Sessions, and Sensitive Santa sessions are available for those with sensory-friendly needs.
Where: Level 6, David Jones on Elizabeth Street, Sydney
When: Saturday 24 October to Thursday 24 December 2026, generally 10 am to 6 pm (session times vary)
Cost: Photo packages range from $30.85 to $99.96, including a main photograph presented in a custom David Jones sleeve.
Bookings: Photos With Santa
Santa at the Summit
Get ready to say you "Jingled all the way to the summit" when you book your own private Santa session on the Sydney Harbour Bridge!
Possibly one of Sydney's most memorable Santa photos for 2026, Santa at the Summit combines Christmas magic with the renowned views of Sydney Harbour for a photo op like no other. Santa will be visiting the Sydney Harbour Bridge every Sunday morning during the festive season to greet climbers 134 metres above sea level with the iconic Sydney Opera House as your backdrop.
In addition to the best views of Sydney while scaling the iconic arches, Christmas cheer add-ons include a Santa hat to take home and a certificate of achievement for younger climbers (ages 8 to 15).
Where: Sydney Bridge Climb, 3 Cumberland St, The Rocks
When: 1 November to 20 December 2026 | Departing before 11 am
Cost: Adults from $385; children (8-15 years) from $170
Bookings: Santa at the Summit
The Enchanted Trove
For one of the most professional Santa snaps, book your session with The Enchanted Trove, stat! This enchanting photography studio is bringing back its immersive Christmas experiences, complete with Santa, cheeky elves, a Christmas fairy and beautifully styled festive sets.
Families can choose between two gorgeous Christmas themes: Santa in the Land of Sweets, filled with sweet festive charm, or Santa in Whimsical White Wonderland, for a dreamy Christmas setting. And for kids who prefer their Christmas with a mischievous twist, there are special Grinchy Prank Photos on 3 December.
Each private 15-minute session gives little ones plenty of time to interact with the Christmas characters, share their wish lists and enjoy the experience without feeling rushed. Families receive all the candid and posed photographs captured during their visit, a printed photo pack and a special gift from Saint Nick. With bookings already open for November and December, this is one Christmas photo experience worth planning ahead for.
Where: The Enchanted Trove, 111 Queen Street, Campbelltown
When: Selected dates from 1 November to 20 December 2026; Grinchy Prank Photos on 3 December
Cost: Check the booking page for current 2026 package prices
Bookings: The Enchanted Trove Santa Sessions
Santa Photos at Castle Towers
Saint Nick's making himself right at home at Castle Towers this Christmas, and he's brought a few extra surprises along for the ride.
From 1 November, families can pop in for their annual Santa photos, with everything from traditional Christmas portraits to baby's first Santa photo and some seriously cheeky encounters with the Grinch.
There's plenty of festive fun for four-legged family members too, with dedicated pet photography sessions welcoming dogs, cats and even rabbits! For children who prefer a quieter introduction to Father Christmas, Sensitive Santa sessions offer dimmed lighting, no music and longer appointments, giving little ones time to settle in without the usual Christmas crowds.
And if you're visiting on Sunday 1 November, don't miss Santa's grand arrival parade from 11 am, featuring a marching band, Mrs Claus, Frosty the Snowman and a whole cast of Christmas characters.
Where: Level 2, opposite Uniqlo, Castle Towers, Castle Hill
When: 1 November to 24 December 2026
Cost: Sensitive Santa and pet photo packages start from $31.95; check prices for other sessions
Bookings: Castle Towers Santa Pics
Santa Photos at Macquarie Centre 2026
Father Christmas is getting a brand-new home at Macquarie Centre, and we can't wait to see what his elves have been working on! From 1 November, families can visit the centre's completely refreshed Santa photography experience, featuring a gorgeous new festive set ready for Christmas smiles, funny faces and those priceless first meetings with Saint Nick.
There are traditional photo sessions for the whole family, pet-friendly snaps for furry friends, and Sensitive sessions offering a calmer, more relaxed environment for children with sensory needs. Macquarie Centre is also hosting Auslan sessions this year. Plus, families who book and have their Santa photo taken by 4 December can enter the draw to win a $10,000 family holiday voucher! Terms and conditions apply.
Where: Level 1, outside Kmart, Macquarie Centre, Macquarie Park
When: 1 November to 24 December 2026
Cost: Photo package prices vary; check booking options
Bookings: Macquarie Centre Santa Photos
Rouse Hill Town Centre
He's making his list, checking it twice and heading straight for Rouse Hill! Saint Nick returns to Rouse Hill Town Centre in November, giving Hills District families plenty of opportunities to capture their annual Christmas photo.
Set up along Civic Way, the festive photography experience welcomes families for traditional portraits, with plenty of opportunities for little ones to chat with Santa about what's topping their wish lists this year. Got a furry family member who deserves a spot in the Christmas card? Dedicated pet photography sessions are available too, plus Sensitive sessions.
And with Santa sticking around until Christmas Eve, there's plenty of time to squeeze in a visit between Christmas shopping and all the end-of-year excitement.
Where: Civic Way, Rouse Hill Town Centre, Rouse Hill
When: 7 November to 24 December 2026
Cost: Photo packages vary by session and selection
Bookings: Rouse Hill Town Centre
High Tea With Santa at The Tea Room QVB
Fancy swapping the usual shopping centre Santa photos for something a little more fancy? High Tea with Santa is serving up a delicious Christmas experience for 2026, complete with sweet treats, festive surprises and a very special visit from Santa and Mrs Claus!
Set inside the beautiful historic ballroom of Sydney's Queen Victoria Building, families can settle in for a two-hour Christmas high tea featuring freshly baked scones, delicate pastries and plenty of festive goodies. Little ones can share their Christmas wishes with Santa and Mrs Claus beneath the sparkling chandeliers before posing for a professional Christmas photo.
Each booking includes a photo experience with at least three digital images, and children will also receive a special Hey Doodle Jingle Bells Colouring Mat to take home. With its grand setting and delicious festive menu, this is a lovely choice for families looking to make their annual photos a little more memorable.
Where: The Tea Room QVB, Level 3, Queen Victoria Building, Sydney CBD
When: Selected dates from 19 November to 24 December 2026
Cost: Adults and teenagers (13+) $120; children (1-12 years) $70; under 1s go FREE
Bookings: High Tea with Santa at The QVB
Santa Photos at Sydney's Plant Market
Who says Santa selfies have to happen at a shopping centre? Sydney's Plant Market in Annangrove is bringing back its popular Christmas photography sessions for a fourth year, and the team has given the whole experience a fresh new look for 2026!
Teaming up with Content Film House, the nursery is hosting professional sessions with a completely redesigned Christmas setting and a real-bearded Santa ready to greet little visitors. Each five-minute session includes up to five digital photographs, with images delivered instantly via AirDrop for iPhone users or through a digital download link.
The whole family is welcome to join the fun, including grandparents, siblings and even well-behaved, leashed pets! Each booking accommodates up to six people, and there's no pressure for nervous little ones to sit on Santa's lap.
Where: 184 Annangrove Road, Annangrove
When: Selected dates from 1 to 29 November 2026
Cost: $69 per five-minute session, including up to five digital images (maximum six people)
Bookings: Online via TryBooking
Marrickville Metro
Santa has decided to take a break from the North Pole and will set up residence at Marrickville Metro for a while! Book your photo session and capture the perfect festive memento for your family.
This year, the Big Man in Red's schedule is packed with special photo options to suit every family. Don't leave your furry friends out of the fun! Bring them along for a paw-fect pet Christmas photo session — costumes are highly encouraged. And for families who prefer a quieter, more relaxed vibe, Sensitive Sessions offer a sensory-friendly space where every child can enjoy their moment in front of the camera.
Where: Marrickville Metro, 20 Smidmore St, Marrickville
When: 14 November to 24 December 2026
Cost: Photo packages vary; check online for current prices.
Bookings: Online at Marrickville Metro
Liverpool Catholic Club
If your little one has a pretty long Christmas list this year, book in an extended photo session with Santa at Liverpool Catholic Club.
Liverpool Catholic Club's photo sessions run for a full 15 minutes, so you can get the perfect snap and much more! The interactive experience at LCC is designed to bring joy, laughter, and Christmas wonder to kids of all ages. Each booking is a private session exclusively for your family, giving little ones plenty of time to chat with Father Christmas, share their wish lists, and soak up the magic. Sensory Santa Sessions are also available and are tailored to children who benefit from a quieter setting.
Where: Liverpool Catholic Club, 424-458 Hoxton Park Rd, Prestons
When: From 18 November to 23 December 2026
Cost: Packages start at $75. A $20 deposit is required to keep your booking.
Bookings: Online at LCC
Santa Photos at Winston Hills Mall
Calling all little Christmas believers! Father Christmas is returning to Winston Hills Mall on Sunday 22 November, and he's ready for big smiles, Christmas wish lists and plenty of festive family photos.
Whether it's baby's very first encounter with Santa or a much-loved annual tradition, families can book a professional photography session, with photo packages starting at just $29. There are different print sizes and festive photo gifts available, plus dedicated pet photography sessions on selected dates, so the family dog doesn't have to miss out!
For an extra dose of Christmas excitement, head along on Santa's opening day to catch his arrival parade at 11 am, featuring a marching band, Christmas characters, Santa and Mrs Claus, followed by a free Christmas show.
Where: Winston Hills Mall, 180 Caroline Chisholm Drive, Winston Hills
When: 22 November to 24 December 2026
Cost: From $29
Bookings: Winston Hills Mall — bookings open 2 November; walk-ins subject to availability
Where Can I Get Santa Photos With Pets in Sydney?
Don't leave your four-legged family members out of the Christmas fun! There are plenty of places offering pet-friendly Santa photos in Sydney for 2026, whether your pooch is happiest posing beside a Christmas tree or getting sandy paws at the beach.
For something a little different, Santa on the Beach Pics welcomes dogs at North Curl Curl and Bayview, while The Grounds of Alexandria allows well-behaved pets to join their festive family photos.
Shopping centres are getting in on the action too, with dedicated pet photography sessions at Westfield, Castle Towers, Macquarie Centre, Rouse Hill Town Centre and Marrickville Metro. You can also bring your furry friend along to Sydney's Plant Market in Annangrove.
Most locations require pets to be on leads or in carriers, and some sessions take place outside regular shopping hours. Be sure to check the booking conditions before bringing your pet along!
Where Can I book Sensitive Santa or Auslan Santa Photos in Sydney?
Meeting Father Christmas should be a magical experience for every child, and thankfully, more Sydney venues are making their Christmas photography sessions accessible and inclusive for 2026.
Sensitive Santa sessions offer a quieter, less overwhelming alternative to traditional Christmas photos, with adjustments such as reduced lighting, quieter surroundings and additional time for children who need it. Families can book Sensitive Santa experiences at most Westfields, Castle Towers, Macquarie Centre, Rouse Hill Town Centre, Marrickville Metro and David Jones.
For children who are deaf or hard of hearing and communicate using Auslan, Auslan sessions provide the opportunity to chat with Santa using Australian Sign Language. These special sessions are available at Macquarie Centre and selected Westfield locations, including Bondi Junction, Chatswood and Miranda.
Bookings are essential for most specialist sessions, with limited dates and appointment times. Families are encouraged to book early and contact their chosen venue about any specific accessibility requirements.
More Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I get Santa photos in Sydney in 2026?
There are plenty of places to book Santa photos in Sydney for 2026, from traditional shopping centre portraits to some pretty unique Christmas experiences! Popular locations include Martin Place, Santaland at Myer, David Jones, The Grounds of Alexandria, Westfield shopping centres, Castle Towers and Macquarie Centre. For something different, families can snap a beachside photo with Santa on the beach or even meet him at the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge!
How much do Santa photos cost in Sydney?
Santa photo prices in Sydney vary depending on the location and what's included in your package. For 2026, traditional photography packages start from $29 at Winston Hills Mall and $29.95 at Santa in the City in Martin Place. More elaborate experiences include The Grounds of Alexandria at $70 plus booking fees and Santa on the Beach Pics at $99 for five digital photographs. Premium experiences and additional prints can cost more.
Are there any free Santa photos in Sydney?
Yes! While most professional photography sessions charge a fee, there are opportunities to snap a free photo with Father Christmas in Sydney during Christmas 2026. Santa and the Santa Fairy will be visiting Marrickville's Alex Trevallion Plaza on 19 and 22 December, where families are invited to bring their own cameras for a free photo. Some community Christmas celebrations also offer free meet-and-greets, so keep an eye on local council events and Christmas festivals. Check out more free Santa experiences here.
Do you need to book Santa photos in advance?
Yes, booking your photos in advance is highly recommended, particularly for weekends and dates closer to Christmas. Popular experiences such as The Grounds of Alexandria, Santaland at Myer and Santa on the Beach Pics can fill up quickly, while Sensitive Santa, Auslan and pet photography sessions generally have limited time slots. Some locations, including Winston Hills Mall, accept walk-ins subject to availability, but booking ahead is the best way to secure your preferred date.
Where can you take Santa photos on the beach in Sydney?
For a Christmas photo with sandy toes and ocean views, head to Sydney's Northern Beaches! Santa on the Beach Pics is returning in 2026 with sessions at North Curl Curl, South Curl Curl, Narrabeen and Bayview, plus premium family photography at Q Station in Manly. Standard sessions cost $99 and include five digital images, while premium Manly sessions cost $199 and include at least 15 photos. Dog-friendly sessions are also available at selected locations, making it a fun Christmas tradition for the whole family.
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About ellaslist
ellaslist is a trusted local guide for families across Sydney and NSW, written by parents and family lifestyle editors who understand what makes an outing with kids genuinely work. Our team researches and curates the best family-friendly events, attractions, playgrounds, restaurants and school holiday activities, with practical details on age suitability, accessibility, parking, public transport, facilities and family-friendly tips.
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