LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — This year Santa's reindeer flew past No Blink Pictures.
"With everything changing every single day, nobody not really knowing what's going on, I just decided not to do it," No Blink Pictures Owner Melissa Neidigh said.
Instead of offering in-person photos with Santa, Neidigh and her clients have opted for a more high-tech experience.
Through some green screen magic, Santa can be added to photos in post-production.
"I think it's a great idea," client Lisa Tucker said. "I'm super excited to see the pictures."
Tucker brought her two-year-old grandson, Eli, to the 'No Blink Pictures' shoot because she said she believes it's safer than going to the mall or another store.
"The COVID cases are just running rampant and we're just trying to keep him and ourselves as safe as possible," Tucker said.
She also said some spots in her area, like Florence Mall and Cabela's, are putting up plexiglass to separate Santa from guests. She said she understands why measures like that are being taken, but it's just not a good fit for her family.
"A plexiglass wall, in my opinion, there's nothing magical to that," Tucker said. "I don't mean that in a bad way because I think it's great that they're doing it."
Families who do want to see Santa in person can expect safety measures. For example, at Fayette Mall, the entire experience will be contactless.
"Santa is going to be socially distanced," Fayette Mall senior marketing director, Sarah Robinson, said. "At least six-feet away from guests when they arrive to take pictures with Santa."
That means kids will not be able to sit on Santa's lap. Photo staff will also be socially distanced from families. Everyone is required to wear a mask and hand sanitizer is readily available.
LEX 18 spoke to a few parents who said they couldn't wait to get back to the mall to take pictures with Santa.
"I think as long as social distancing is going on and sanitized after each kid, I think it'll be okay," Dakota Branham said.
Families must make an appointment online. Walk-ups will be accepted during the first and last hours of the day.
Kids can also visit Santa virtually. For more information, click here.
