family session guide
It means the world to me that you’ve trusted me to capture your family’s memories. I’m all about creating natural, authentic images that reflect the real you. Family portraiture is an investment, and I’ll work hard to make sure the experience is fun, relaxed, and stress-free, while capturing the essence of this chapter in your lives.
This guide breaks down what to expect from your session and gives you some tips on how to make our time together a success!
trusting me
Thank you for
BIG MUST-SEE NOTES RE: STUDIO POLICIES
- Digital downloads are NOT included in the session fee. Digital Collections and individual digital images are available for purchase.
- Weekends are an additional $100 and do book fast — contact me early for availability!
- Full sessions include up to 5 people, with a $10 charge for each additional person.
Your session fee is due at the time of booking to hold your spot. I offer 30-minute mini-sessions for $225 and 60-minute full sessions for $350.
Mini-sessions are great for babies, toddlers, or when you just need a few key shots. Full sessions work best when you want to capture more combinations, individual shots, and some photos of just the parents.
SESSION FEES
Please arrive a few minutes early so we can make the most of your session time. If you’re more than 15 minutes late, unfortunately, you forfeit the session and your fees. Trust me, I get it — life happens — so just give me a heads up if you're running late!
TARDINESS
I only reschedule for extreme weather (snow, thunderstorms, extreme heat, etc.). Cloudy skies? We’re still on!
You’re allowed one reschedule for illness or a personal emergency with at least 24 hours’ notice, so I can offer the spot to someone else. During my busiest times (hello, fall!), reschedules might take a while. Keep in mind that if you’re late to your session, we’ll have to work with whatever time is left, and it’ll affect the number of images in your gallery.
RESCHEDULES & WEATHER
POLICIES
STUDIO
- A What to Wear Guide
- Personalized location recommendations
- Unlimited email support
350
$
60-90 Minute Full Session
225
$
30-Minute Mini Session
Two options to capture real, authentic moments with your crew.
for your family
Perfect Session
Pick the
More time for all the fun, with a variety of groupings & individual shots.
Great for families with little kids; and quick, no-fuss group shots.
collections
Find the perfect package for your needs
Full gallery download
50 Digital Downloads
$50 Print Credit
25 Digital Downloads
$25 Print Credit
location
Choosing a
Choosing a spot for family photos can feel overwhelming, but I’ve got you covered! I’ll help you find a location that fits your family’s style and offers great backgrounds without too much walking.
PRO TIP: Avoid playgrounds unless you want to spend the whole session negotiating playtime! (If playground photos are part of the plan, we’ll save that for the end.)
Leave the Extras at Home
Keep pockets and hands free! Leave phones, bulky keys, and accessories at home or in the car. You don’t want anything distracting from your natural, relaxed vibe during the shoot.
04.
Make It Fun for Kids
Before the session, explain that we’re going to have fun and play some games while I take your photos. Promise them something fun after, like 20 minutes at the playground or a pizza dinner, to keep them excited and engaged.
03.
Let Kids Be Kids
Incorporate your kids’ favorite characters or styles. Whether it’s Bluey, Paw Patrol, or a sparkly princess skirt, let their personality shine. A character tee under a cardigan or some fun shoes will make them feel like themselves.
02.
Dress for the Weather & Location
Keep everyone comfortable by dressing for the temperature, but don’t forget the setting! If we're outdoors, make sure your outfits work with the landscape (think neutral tones in the desert, or casual chic in a city setting).
01.
PREPPING
for your session
I have an entire blog post about how to make sure your family photos are as stress-free as possible, and it's worth the read!
Leave the extra stuff at home (like purses and wallets and giant keyrings like you're a school janitor or some shit). Pack a single tote bag with all the necessities, including fruit snacks (or another non-messy easy-to-eat snack), baby wipes, tissues, and whatever else is on your must-pack list.
The Day of Your Session
Feed your crew (and yourself!) before we start, and bring along some non-messy snacks and water. We’ll keep things fun, light, and easy. No stressing! I’ll guide you through the session with poses and activities that feel natural. Leave the heavy lifting to me and let’s keep things relaxed! Just remember: no yelling “smile!” — kids never listen to that one!
My turnaround time for family sessions is 2-3 weeks. Your images will be delivered via a digital download in an online gallery, which will be accessible for 12 months. I’ll send you the gallery link as soon as it’s ready, along with instructions on how to select your collection. Each collection includes print credit from the gallery store.
You can share your gallery link with anyone you'd like, giving you full control of access to your photos. But please remember — hard drives fail, and technology isn’t foolproof.
after your session
