The first time I’d ever booked with a professional photographer, I was terrified. It was my engagement session and I was terrified. I had no idea what to wear, how to act, or what to do. Thankfully, my photographer made my husband (then fiance) feel like professional models. For my own business, I’d love to take it one step further.
When you book a session with me, you’re signing onto an experience, not just a gallery of pretty photos. I want you to show up to your session, take a deep breath, and feel a wave of relief. The hard part—the prepping, the worrying, the outfit coordinating, the snack bribing—is over. Now we just get to have fun.
I wrote this FAQ page to walk you through what to expect and answer the questions I hear most often from families. Of course, if something pops into your head that isn’t covered here, I’m always just a message away. I want you to feel confident, cared for, and completely at ease through every step of this process.
Family Session Frequently Asked Questions
What can we expect from our session?
In a word? Fun.
Fun for you, fun for your kids, and even fun for Dad!
Family sessions are low-pressure and relaxed. As a lifestyle photographer, I want to capture the real, raw story God is writing in your family. That means we’ll giggle, dance, play, and probably crack some corny jokes along the way.
I’m dead-serious about the corny jokes. It’s a toxic trait of mine.
Many of our images will look, but we’ll also grab a few frame-worthy posed photos. I’ll also be watching for the in-between moments—the snuggles, belly laughs, and quiet connections that make your family yours.
What should we wear?
I could write an entire blog post just on this topic! The most common stressor my clients admit to is coordinating their outfits. I totally get it. Aside from the photographer and lighting, a beautiful wardrobe can make or break your family photos. Thankfully, choosing picture-worthy outfits can be easily and inexpensive.
Below are a few tips to get you started, but please remember that I’m here to help. In fact, most of my clients do send me photos of their outfits before the session. Style guidance is included in your session!
- Think coordinated, not matching. The easiest way to start is with Mom’s outfit and build from there.
- Choose a color scheme: A couple neutrals with a pop of color is always a safe and timeless choice. Just be sure everyone’s outfits work with Mom’s look. You absolutely can use bold colors, but think deep gem hues instead of neon colors.
- Use textures: Not a pattern person? No problem. Mix textures instead—linen, tulle, cotton, velvet. These photograph beautifully and add depth without being distracting.
- Mix hemlines and bottoms: Variety keeps things visually interesting. If Mom is in a mid-calf dress, Daughter might wear ankle-length.
- Avoid matching solids: It’s okay to mix patterns, just don’t let them compete. A solid, a small floral, and a subtle check can work wonderfully together. The thing to avoid is completely matching.
- Dress kids like tiny adults: Fresh khakis or a whimsical dress always win. Try to avoid graphic tees, big logos, characters, or neon—these pull attention away from those sweet little faces.
What if my kids are grouchy?
Totally normal. It happens to everyone. Even dads.
This session is designed to feel like an experience, not a performance. We won’t be standing in stiff, boring poses for long. We’ll be moving, playing, exploring, and letting kids be kids.
And if someone is really not having it? That’s okay too. I can’t promise smiles, but we can still create beautiful images.
Even serious or pouty faces often become the most cherished ones later.
Keep in mind, I always try to photograph kids first, so if they need to make an early exit, we’ve already captured what we need.
When will I get my photos?
You’ll receive a sneak peek within 48 hours, and your full gallery within 3 weeks.
I genuinely welcome your feedback on the sneak peeks—you’re part of this process, and I want you to love what you see.
What if the weather is bad?
You don’t have to live in North Carolina long to get that the weather is kind of insane. If NC decides to throw us a curveball (thunderstorm or a snowstorm all within 24 hours), we’ll simply reschedule.
I’ll check the forecast the morning of your session and text you if we need to make a change. My goal is always for you to love your photos—not settle for less-than-ideal conditions.
Same goes with illnesses. If I’m sick, I don’t want to risk getting your family sick. If you’re sick, we can reschedule as well. I want you to feel happy during your shoot, not miserable!
How much do you charge?
My pricing is all-inclusive, which means what you pay covers the session itself and a curated collection of high-resolution digital images. Easy and no surprises.
If you’re not sure which session type fits your family best, I’m always happy to help you decide. Just send me a message and tell me a little about what you’re dreaming up.
How long do sessions last?
Most sessions last around 1 hour, give or take.
That gives us plenty of time to ease into things, explore a few spots, and capture both posed and candid moments without feeling rushed.
Family sessions (especially extended families) typically need a bit more breathing room. I recommend planning for at least 1.5 hours so we can make sure everyone gets in front of the camera.
Do you travel?
Yes! I love exploring new places with my clients.
I typically travel within about 40 minutes of Winston-Salem at no additional cost. If your session location is farther than that, I’m still happy to come, it just requires a small travel fee depending on distance.
If you’re unsure whether your location qualifies, just ask. I’m happy to help!
How do I pay?
You’ll pay a 25% retainer to officially hold your session. Then, I’ll send your invoice along with your sneak peek.
You can pay through Pixieset using PayPal or credit card, or with exact cash or check at your session if that’s easiest. Final galleries are delivered once the session invoice is paid in full.
Looking for a Family Photographer in Winston-Salem? Let’s Chat!
I want this whole experience to feel easy and joyful, right from the start. You don’t need to be perfect. Your kids don’t need to behave like angels. Remember, I’m here to capture the story God is writing in your family’s lives. So, just show up as you are, and I’ll take care of the rest.
If you’ve already booked your session with me, I can’t wait to meet you. If you’d like to book with me, contact me with the button below. Together we can create some great memories!