Fresno studio raises $100,000 to fund Santa photos for families in need

Holiday Magic Studios Inc. launched the Million Magic Moments campaign on December 19 with a goal of raising $100,000 to fund about 300 Santa photo packages for children and families in need. The campaign is intended to broaden access to a seasonal tradition that can be costly for struggling households, and to channel holiday spending into community support across Fresno County.

The studio is owned by Peter De Young and his son Nico, who operate a long running location at River Park along with portable studios serving Fresno and neighboring communities. The business model relies on five minute appointment slots, real bearded Santas, and a staged Santa workshop experience developed with outside consultants. Studio leaders said they are inviting businesses to sponsor families and expanding partnerships with local photographers to scale outreach and increase paid opportunities for freelancers during the season.

Holiday Magic Studios is partnering with local nonprofits Make A Wish, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Toys for Tots, and the Boys and Girls Club of Fresno County to identify recipients and coordinate distribution. Mayor Jerry Dyer offered local backing for the campaign, signaling municipal support for private sector initiatives that target holiday needs and strengthen ties between businesses and community organizations.

At the campaign target of $100,000, the program would equate to roughly $333 per Santa photo package, a figure that reflects not only photography but studio staging and staffing required to deliver an immersive experience. For local photographers and support staff, the initiative creates short term paid roles and referral business as the studio expands partnerships. For River Park and surrounding retailers, the program may generate additional foot traffic from families picking up packages and attending related events.

The campaign also fits a broader retail trend toward curated experiences. As consumers increasingly pay for memorable moments rather than mass produced goods, community focused programs that combine philanthropy with experiential offerings can mobilize local spending and promote inclusive access. For Fresno families in need, the Million Magic Moments campaign aims to restore a holiday tradition while keeping dollars and opportunities in the local economy.