Ultimate Guide to the best places to get Santa Photos in Sydney 2025

Wondering where to get a Santa photo on Sydney’s North Shore this Christmas? Santa is popping up all over Sydney’s North Shore – from our trusty shopping centres right through to the bush or Sydney Harbour! Discover the best places to get your Santa photos.

Be sure to book your session online to secure your spot and avoid the queues! Merry Christmas…

Check out our quicklinks to find where to get a Santa photo across Sydney’s North Shore.

Santa photos at local Shopping Centres & other spots in Sydney

• St Ives Shopping Village, St Ives
• Macquarie Centre, North Ryde
• Westfield Chatswood
• Westfield Hornsby
• David Jones, Sydney
• Myer, Sydney, Macquarie Centre & Castle Towers
• The Grounds of Alexandria

Santa photos with a twist!

• Santa in the City, Martin Place
• Santa in the Garden, St Ives Wildflower Gardens
• BridgeClimb Santa on the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney
• QVB, Sydney CBD

Professional photographers offering Special Christmas Photo Shoots

• Santa in the Paddock by Clare Oliver, Arcadia
• Aussie Santa Photos @ Long Reef Beach by J Roberts Photography
• A Day In The Life Christmas Session, by Nadia Stone Photography
• The Santa Studio, Sutherland Shire

Guide: Special Christmas Photos with North Shore Photographers

Santa photos on the North Shore

Santa photos at The Village

Visit the beautiful nordic Santa Set at St Ives Village (located on Level 1, outside Nextra) for your Santa photos.

Santa will be taking up residence from Thursday 29 November until Christmas Eve. Times vary from day to day, but check the website for daily times!

Do you want your pet to be in the photos, too? Pet Sessions are available on Tuesday 2, 9 & 16 December (2:30 – 5:30pm), Thursday 4, 11 & 18 December (3:30 – 6:30pm, and Friday 5, 12 & 19 December (2:30 – 5:30pm.

• When: Thursday 29 November – Christmas Eve
• Location: St Ives Shopping Village, Level 1 (near Nextra)
• Packages: $24.95 – $49.95. Book now.
  

BOOK SANTA PHOTO AT ST IVES VILLAGE

Santa’s Secret Garden at Macquarie Centre

Santa’s Secret Garden at Macquarie Centre

Santa’s Secret Garden, the award-winning Christmas photography set, is returning to Macquarie Centre! Get ready for a magical journey to meet Santa as you cross the boardwalk, explore the glow worm cave, pass by iconic Australian landscapes and more!

This one-of-a-kind living, breathing Christmas set features 260+ native and drought-tolerant plants that transport you from the beach to the bush, encompassing lush greenery with tropical plants and coastal pathways. Due to popular demand, our Pet Photography and Sensitive Santa sessions have also returned and are available to book now.

• When: Saturday 15 November 2025 – Christmas Eve
• Location: Centre Court (outside Kmart), Level 1, Macquarie Centre, Cnr Herring & Waterloo Roads, North Ryde
• Tickets: Book now.

BOOK SANTA PHOTO AT MACQUARIE CENTRE

Santa photos at Westfield Chatswood

Westfield Chatswood has everything you need to create incredible Christmas memories! This year, Westfield has a range of photography sessions and packages to suit everyone and every budget. You can choose from Family and friends, Sensitive Santa and Pet photography.

All Santa photo sessions require an online booking.

• When: Saturday 8 November 2025 – Christmas Eve
• Where: Level 3, Centre Court (near Nandos), Westfield Chatswood,  1 Anderson Street Chatswood
• Book now

Santa photos at Westfield Hornsby

With a variety of photo packages available, book your Santa photography session today to secure a time that is convenient for you. This year, Westfield Hornsby has a range of photography sessions and packages to suit everyone and every budget, with your choice of Sensitive Santa, Auslan Santa and Pet photography. All children who visit Santa will also receive a special gift to take home.

• When: Saturday 8 November 2025 – Christmas Eve
• Where: Westfield Hornsby, Level 3 (near Daiso), Pacific Highway, Hornsby
• Book now

Santa photos in the Sydney CBD

Martin Place

Santa photos at Martin Place, Sydney

Get ready, because Santa Claus is preparing for his much-anticipated return to Sydney, loading up his sleigh and getting the reindeers ready for the long journey back to the city. After spreading so much joy last year, the City of Sydney is thrilled to welcome him again, where he’ll take up residence beside the iconic Christmas tree in Martin Place.

The elves have already landed in Sydney, working around the clock making exciting updates to Santa’s house before his arrival. Santa will remain in Martin Place until he departs on his world tour on Christmas Eve. He has extended an open invitation to all, including your pets, to join him for a magical photo session.

Martin Place will transform into Sydney’s ultimate Christmas destination, featuring the iconic Christmas tree, lively markets, choirs, roaming entertainment, and the return of Santa’s House – where you will immerse yourself in the festive spirit and capture unforgettable memories with Santa Claus.

In conjunction with the City of Sydney, Scene to Believe proudly supports the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation Christmas Appeal. $5 from each booking is donated directly to the Foundation.

• When: Sunday 23 November to Christmas Eve
• Location: Martin Place, Sydney. Santa’s House is between George and Pitt Streets.
• Photo packages: $29.95 – $49.95
• Tickets: Book now

BOOK SANTA PHOTOS IN MARTIN PLACE

QVB’s New Santa Experience

Step into a festive wonderland with their all-new Santa Experience, nestled on Level 2 of the iconic Queen Victoria Building. Your ticket includes a whimsical ride to Santa’s grotto, where enchanting elves, fairies, and Santa himself await.

Book now to capture the joy. Each visit includes two digital photographs to treasure the memory.

• When: Saturday 8 November 2025 – Christmas Eve
• Where: The Queen Victoria Building, Level 2 (under the dome)
• Cost: $50 per group (max 6)
• Book now

David Jones

Take the kids into the city to enjoy a magical Christmas experience and receive your photo with Santa in a custom sleeve and a complimentary Santa Hat. They offer multiple package option, including Santa Pawtraits and Sensitive Santa sessions. Be sure to book your session online first!

• When: Friday 7 November 2025 – Christmas Eve
• Location: Level 6, Toy Department, David Jones on Elizabeth Street, Sydney
• Tickets: Book now

Santaland at Myer

Follow the elves on a Santaland Adventure at the Sydney CBD Myer, where you’ll climb aboard the Santaland Express train for a whimsical journey to the North Pole.

Or book in at your local store (like Macquarie Centre, Castle Towers & Erina) and capture your magical family moment with Santa.

Sensory Santa, Santa Paws and Baby’s First Christmas sessions are available at select stores.

• When: Saturday 8 November – Christmas Eve
• Location: Level 6, 436 George St, Sydney | Macquarie Centre | Castle Towers | Erina
• Cost: Printed photo packages start at $28.95. You may add a digital version of your photos for $17.95 with any printed package purchase.
• Tickets: Book now

Santa photos with a twist!

Santa in the Garden, Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden, St Ives

Santa in the Garden, Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Gardens, St Ives

Capture the magic of a true Aussie Christmas with Santa in the Garden—a unique outdoor photo experience in Sydney’s North Shore bushland! Santa is returning to the Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden in St Ives for this exceptional photo opportunity. Sessions will run every weekend from 16th November to 15th December.

The package includes a 5-minute session and three high-resolution digital images for $80. Parking is available on-site. Upon entering the Wildflower Garden, please follow the Santa in the Garden parking signs.

Aussie summer weather can be unpredictable, but since we have limited sessions available, Santa in the Garden photography will proceed even in wet weather.

No pets are permitted in the Wildflower Garden for Santa in the Garden photography with the exception of registered assistance dogs on a leash.

Bookings are essential—secure your spot today!

• Where: Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden, 420 Mona Vale Road, St Ives
• When: TBA

Santa on Sydney Harbour Bridge, Bridgeclimb

Santa on Sydney Harbour Bridge, Bridgeclimb

Santa will return to the Sydney Harbour Bridge every Sunday morning from 5 November to 22 December 2024 for the ultimate Christmas photo, 134 metres above sea level and with the iconic Sydney Opera House as the backdrop.

In addition to experiencing the best views of Sydney while scaling the iconic arches, Christmas cheer add-ons include a complimentary printed Santa photo with every purchased photo package, an optional festive photo border on all photos, a Santa hat to take home, and the chance to sing-along to your favourite Christmas carols on a stage like no other.

Climbers can tick off Sydney’s must-do experience AND pose for a festive photo with the big man himself, 134 metres above the Harbour on the iconic arches.

This iconic Santa photo is perfect for sharing with loved ones near and far. It’s sure to go straight to the pool room. All you need to bring is a frankincense of adventure!

• Where: BridgeClimb, The Rocks
• When: Any Sunday climb departing before 11am every Sunday from 2 November to 21 December 2025 on all Climb routes – Summit, Summit Express and Ultimate.
• Cost: Family of 3 (1 adult, 2 kids) $674 | Family of 3 (2 adult, 1 kids) $883 | Family of 4 (2 adults, 2 kids) $1038
• Book now.

Santa Photos at The Grounds of Alexandria

Special Christmas Photos with professional photographers

Santa in the Paddock, with Clare Oliver Photography

Looking for something truly special this Christmas? Forget the long lines, blinking lights, and rushed mall Santa photos. Santa in the Paddock is a luxurious, heartwarming photography experience created by Clare Oliver, set on a beautiful private property in Arcadia, in Sydney’s lush northern outskirts.

Visit Santa in beautiful Arcadia to capture your precious moments of the festive season. Pets welcome (dogs, cats, horses, parrots, you name it!)

• Package: $249 for a 15-minute session and 20 images
• Location: 95 Arcadia Road, Arcadia (25 mins drive from Wahroonga)
• Sessions:  November 7th and 8th – 3pm – 7pm | November 9th – 8am -12pm | November 14th and 15th 3pm – 7pm | November 16th – 8am – 12pm
• Book Christmas Session
• Phone: 0409 790 530 (Natasha)
• Follow Clare Oliver Photography on Facebook and Instagram

BOOK CLARE OLIVER PHOTOGRAPHY

Aussie Santa Photos @ Long Reef Beach by J Roberts Photography

Aussie Santa Photos @ Long Reef Beach by J Roberts Photography

This festive season, bring the whole family to experience the true spirit of an Aussie Christmas with Santa by the beach! Santa will be making his annual appearance at the stunning Long Reef Beach on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, ready to help you create unforgettable Christmas memories.

Say goodbye to long queues! These pre-booked sessions are a breezy 5 minutes per family, giving you all the time you need to capture the perfect festive moment. And the best part? You’ll receive 3 high-resolution images, ideal for sharing with loved ones or turning into the ultimate Christmas card.

So, grab your sunnies and head to Long Reef Beach this November and December for a truly special Santa photo experience.

• Package: $85 for 5-minute session & 3 high-resolution images (available for download within 72 hours).
• When: Sessions 3pm – 6:30pm on the following dates:
  • December: Friday 12 | Wednesday 17 | Friday 19 | Sunday 21 | Tuesday 23
• Location: Long Reef Beach, Pittwater Road, Collaroy
• Website: jrobertsphotography.com.au
• Follow J Roberts Photography on Facebook

BOOK AUSSIE SANTA

‘Day In Your Life’ Christmas Session, by Nadia Stone Photography

‘Day In Your Life’ Christmas Session, by Nadia Stone Photography

With the festive season just around the corner, Nadia Stone Photography is excited to introduce a unique type of photo session that captures the magic of Christmas—the “Day in Your Life” Christmas session. This ‘documentary’ style session allows Nadia Stone Photography to follow your family as you go about their festive activities, from picking out the perfect Christmas tree to decorating it with twinkling lights and ornaments.

There is something truly special about capturing these moments of joy and togetherness as they unfold in real life. The “Day in Your Life” Christmas session is all about capturing the connections and love that make each family unique. Whether it’s making gingerbread houses, wrapping presents, or simply enjoying a cozy evening around a barbecue, these moments will be cherished for years to come.

As a family photographer, Nadia Stone Photography believes nothing is better than real life. The laughter, the love, and the little moments that make up everyday lives are what truly matter. By documenting a family’s Christmas traditions naturally and authentically, Nadia Stone Photography aims to create timeless images that will be treasured for generations.

• Package: $975 for a 3-4 hour photography session, a private gallery for you to share with family, 20 High-resolution digital files (retouched and ready to print) and one 20×30 Oak framed of your favourite photo
• When: Subject to availability. Get in touch. Book online.
• Location: You choose
• Website: nadiastonephotography.com
• Email: [email protected]
• Follow Nadia Stone on Facebook or Instagram

BOOK NADIA STONE PHOTOGRAPHY

The Santa Studio

The Santa Studio

Step into the magical world of The Santa Studio, where your Christmas memories come to life! Nestled in the Sutherland Shire, this exclusive, designer-crafted studio is the perfect place to capture the festive spirit with your loved ones.

These private, pre-booked photography sessions offer a unique opportunity to create unforgettable Christmas moments in a beautifully styled setting. Whether it’s just the kids, the whole family, or even your furry friends, The Santa Studio has you covered! Dogs are welcome to join in the fun during the pet-friendly sessions. Just ensure they’re on a leash, seated comfortably on the floor or a family member’s lap, and watch them steal the spotlight!

With bookings open now, don’t miss your chance to secure a spot and create magical Christmas photos you’ll treasure for years.

• Package: Packages available from $85 to $230.
• When: 27 November 2025 to 24 December 2025
• Location: 106 Coonong Road, Gymea Bay NSW 2227
• Website: thesantastudio.com.au
• Email: [email protected]
• Follow The Santa Studio on Facebook or Instagram

BOOK THE SANTA STUDIO

Want more inspiration for Christmas in Sydney?

• North Shore restaurants open Christmas Day
• Best Christmas Markets around Sydney’s North Shore
• Guide: Special Christmas Photo Shoots by North Shore photographers
• Where to buy a real Christmas tree in Sydney
• Top 21 Christmas Movies to watch this festive season