Holiday Magic at the OKC Ballet's Nutcracker Tea
Meet the Oklahoma City Ballet: A Tradition of Holiday Magic
What an absolute honor to be invited back for another round of Oklahoma City event photography—this time, capturing the sparkle of OKC Ballet’s annual Nutcracker Tea. If you haven't experienced this, trust me: it's a dream come true for any family photographer and ranks high among the most enchanting family-friendly events in Oklahoma City!
The Nutcracker Tea is the definition of classic holiday fun—little girls glammed up in their holiday best, living out their first “fancy” tea party (seriously, these are family portraits just begging to happen!). Picture fine china, tiny finger sandwiches, a hot cocoa bar that would make any kiddo’s sugar-plum dreams come true, and more French pastries than you can count. Santa dropped in, cozied up for photos, and the Nutcracker cast made a surprise appearance—pure event photography gold.
The Vision: Capturing That Story-Driven Holiday Wonder
Whenever the Oklahoma City Ballet is on the other side of my lens, their goal is crystal clear: creative, story-driven event photography to share with media, social media, advertising, and more. I’m forever grateful that, as a Black woman photographer in Oklahoma City, they trust me fully to capture these moments with my signature vibrant, lifestyle photography touch.
My own mission? To tell this holiday story through a child’s eyes—every ounce of sparkle, every jaw-dropping moment, every bit of wide-eyed joy. If these images help a few new families discover the Nutcracker Tea (or inspire them to start a new Oklahoma City holiday tradition), then my heart—and my photography portfolio—couldn’t be happier.
Behind the Scenes: Nutcracker Dreams in the Meinders Hall of Mirrors
Shooting at the Civic Center Music Hall’s Meinders Hall of Mirrors was a total treat for this lifestyle photographer in Oklahoma City! This iconic venue, with its Art Deco vibes and dreamy parquet floors, was the perfect backdrop for story-driven event photography. Honestly, it’s a dream setting for Oklahoma City photography: the details, the light, the grandeur—it all made my job as a professional photographer just a little more magical.
The atmosphere? Off-the-charts joyful. Think jewel-toned holiday dresses, glowing Christmas trees, and laughter everywhere. For a female event and lifestyle photographer who lives for color and candids, this was as good as it gets. Every frame was a celebration—moms, daughters, ballerinas, and Santa bringing genuine smiles and priceless memories.
A Personal Note: Core Memory Activated
Full disclosure: “magical” almost doesn’t cut it. Growing up, I’d have been over the moon for a tea like this—velvet dress, patent leather shoes, the whole nine yards. Seeing little girls whirl in their finest, clutching their moms’ hands, and lighting up at the sight of Santa or a Nutcracker dancer? That’s the kind of moment that defines storytelling lifestyle photography for families. I felt like I was watching core memories being born—and had the privilege of being the creative Black female photographer who captured it all.
The Gear—And the Secret Sauce to That Natural Glow
Here’s something every Oklahoma City photographer knows: December light can be tricky, but being prepared pays off! With the Hall of Mirrors’ amazing natural light fading fast, my Godox Pro V1 speedlite and MagMod MagSphere 2 Diffuser delivered that extra dose of magic. Fellow photographers and gearheads, for those looking for professional event photography in Oklahoma, this is the toolkit for rich, beautiful light.
What was in my bag: Canon R6 Mark II (mirrorless magic!), Canon RF 24-70mm f2.8 for all the nuances, plus a trusty speedlite setup. That combo is my go-to not just for elegant event photos, but for capturing those storytelling moments that set my Oklahoma City photography apart.
The Final Frames: An OKC Storytelling Gallery
The resulting gallery? A highlight reel of joy. Wide shots showing off the Hall of Mirrors’ dazzling space (total win for my Oklahoma City professional lifestyle photographer portfolio!), sweet mother-daughter close-ups, vibrant group scenes, and those precious candid moments that make event photography in Oklahoma just unbeatable.
Ready for Your Own Magical Story? Let’s Create Together!
Working with the Oklahoma City Ballet is pure joy and never feels like work—honestly, it’s what being a creative, inclusive photographer for high-end events is all about. If you’re searching for bold, heartfelt event photos or vibrant lifestyle photography in Oklahoma City for your family, brand, or next big celebration, let’s connect. I’m here for your unforgettable moments, ready to add the next chapter to your story—let’s make some magic together!
Want photos overflowing with warmth, personality, and magic—captured by a female photographer in Oklahoma who knows how to find the fun? Reach out today, and let’s make your next event or family session as unforgettable as the Nutcracker Tea!
Dreaming of a photoshoot that’s as vibrant and authentic as you are? Visit Mel Drake Photography to learn how we can bring your story to life. Whether it’s a lifestyle portrait, a family story, or creative branding for your business—we’ll make magic together.
Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram @MelDrakePhotography and Facebook @MelDrakePhotography for more behind-the-scenes fun, tips, and sneak peeks of upcoming shoots.
XOXO, Melissa "Mel" Drake
#LetsMakeMagicTogether #MelDrakePhotography
QUICK REFERENCES:
Photography:
Melissa “Mel” Drake (Mel Drake Photography)
Clients:
The Sheller Family
Locations:
Edmond, OK
Equipment:
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