That is an interesting fun question Jan! HHmmmm…. I haven't thought much about it…but I do know that when I have seen Christmas card with Santa sitting on the beach I always feel "weird" about it. lol!
For me I'm more likely to make snow scenes, even for those not living in cold climates---but I do have to say that your question has me rethinking b/c I can see cards going to others on the other side of the hemisphere that are used to warm weather for Christmas, have not seen Christmas/winter cards the way we do on this side of the hemisphere…so now I may be more conscience of it now.
I too have received more of those photo cards. The ones we receive are always showing families and how they are growing, so it is neat that it's a timeline of sorts for those sending them. But I do have to say that I cherish the ones others make and even pick out differently than the photo ones, if that makes sense.