What to expect during a family photography session:

Family photo booking process: How it works?

Let’s Chat. I find the best place to start is a phone call or even a video chat. That way, I can hear a little about you, your family (or family-to-be), and what you’re looking for. If you already have an inkling on the type of session you’d like, then we can chat through some of the details, like what time the light is best in your home, or what happens if your baby is shedding that first layer of skin during your newborn session.

What do I do when I’m ready to book?

You’ve thought it over and you’re ready to book. Just let me know in an email or phone call and I’ll send over a booking agreement. It’ll cover some of the details we talked through and other things like privacy and scheduling. I’ll include an invoice for a deposit, which applies toward your final package. Once you’ve signed the agreement and completed the deposit, voila! You’re set.

What Should the Family Wear?!

The million dollar question. The key here is—don’t stress too much. If you’re going for a day-in-the-life session, then what you’d wear on a normal basis is great. Authenticity is key. Keep it fairly simple—mostly neutrals like white, gray, blue, or even beige—then adding a pop of color, texture, or pattern.  Check out this family and this family for inspiration. If you love color, coolors.com is a great place to generate a palette.

Unless it’s a maxi dress that you can still work with to create shape, avoid oversize items that don’t fit well, even if it’s trendy.  Timeless pieces with classic cuts that flatter your shape work best. If you’re really struggling, let me know. I’m happy to create a look-board of suggestions to help!

What happens if my kids implode?

Noooo worries. I’ve dealt with this dozens of times and have plenty of tricks to pull everyone through! We also do what we can on the front end to avoid meltdowns (planning around nap time, having snacks on hand, etc). I’m always mindful of time to make sure we get our ‘winners’ quickly.

If it’s a day-in-the-life session, we keep it loose and read the situation. This is real life. Your crying child doesn’t bother me one bit. I can continue capturing your dynamic (sometimes these moments are tender and powerful) or if you prefer—give you space till the energy shifts. We’ll talk through your comfort level beforehand.

What if your main squeeze isn’t a fan of pictures?

Mine isn’t either so I understand. I try to make sessions fun and painless for everyone. If your partner’s uncomfortable with posing for a camera, day-in-the-life sessions make all the difference. Instead of a formal session where they feel pressured to look a certain way, you can have fun together as a family eating ice cream or playing at the park, while I document your interactions.

What to expect from me? 

I’ll be keeping it casual. During a session, you might see me crawling in the grass along with your toddler, or climbing up a tree opposite your six-year-old. You can expect to find me in jeans and a t-shirt and a pair of sneakers or socks.

Will you try to up-sell me?

No in-person sales session, lots of options for products and prints. You’re a parent, which basically guarantees you’re busy. To make things easier for you, I’ll send a link to your online gallery where you can download your files directly.  As for what to do with those files, well, I’m not ever going to pressure you, but a professional printer goes a long way. If you want to place an order through me, I have plenty of keepsake options. But no pressure! You have total freedom to go your own way.

When should I expect my pictures to be ready?

I know, it’s just so hard to wait, especially in the age of digital! You’ll have your gallery online within seven days of your session.  Once I receive your picks for retouching, I’ll have them back to you within 72 hours.

Will my pictures end up on your website? 

Only if you let me. Which I hope you will!  We’ll go over all that when the time comes to ensure you’re comfortable with whatever you decide.

Do you retouch my family photos?

For traditional packages, yes.  Once your gallery is online, I’ll provide directions for this step.

Day-in-the-life sessions are all about authenticity, so I tend to do minimal if any retouching.  Don’t worry though, I’m not here to make you look or feel bad, promise.

Ready to book your own family photography session?

Great! I can’t wait to connect. You can contact me here. If you have more questions, you can schedule a 15-minute stress-free phone call here.