Frequently Asked Questions

The Family Experience

Family portraits are more than just pictures — they’re family heirlooms. They tell your story, preserve your legacy, and grow more valuable with every passing year. I treat every session as a chance to celebrate your love and create beautiful, lasting memories that your family will treasure for generations.

My approach to family photography is all about connection. I create a relaxed, welcoming environment where families can simply be themselves — laugh together, hug tightly, and share those genuine moments that make their bond so special. With over 30 years of experience behind the camera, I know how to gently guide and observe so I can capture the spirit of your family in a way that feels natural, joyful, and timeless.

Whether in the studio with soft, timeless styling or outdoors in golden light, your images will reflect your bond and the unique spirit of your family. I’d love to capture this moment for you.

You’ll never know how important these images are until they are all you have left.

When is the Best Time to Take Family Photos?

The best time to book family photos is when you are ready to preserve the love and connection you share — and in Southern California, we’re lucky to have beautiful light and weather almost year-round. That said, Fall is especially popular for families who want updated portraits in time for holiday cards, while Spring brings soft florals and warm sunshine that’s perfect for outdoor sessions. Studio sessions are ideal year-round as we can control the lighting and temperature to ensure your family is comfortable. Whatever your special occasion for choosing to invest in professional portraits, we will highlight your family just as they are at this time in their lives.

What to Wear for Your Family Session

Clothing plays a big role in how your family photos turn out! After all, the entire family will be enjoying these images for years! Choosing outfits for your family photos doesn’t have to be stressful — the goal is to feel comfortable, confident, and coordinated without being too “matchy.” Here are a few tips to help you look and feel your best:

• Start with a color palette. Soft neutrals, earth tones, or pastels tend to photograph beautifully and create a timeless look. Think creams, taupes, dusty blues, sage greens, or warm rust tones. Choose 2–3 main colors and mix in subtle patterns or textures.

• Dress comfortably but polished. Choose clothing that fits well and allows you to move easily, especially for kids. Flowing dresses, layered looks, and simple accessories can add elegance without being fussy. My client closet is a perfect place to start if you’re looking to add statement pieces to your final images. I have a small variety of children’s dresses as well!

• Coordinate, don’t match. Gone are the days of everyone in white shirts and jeans. Instead, let each person’s outfit complement the others — like pieces from the same collection.

• Layer for texture and flexibility. Cardigans, vests, scarves, or denim jackets can add visual interest and give you the option to switch things up during the shoot.

• Avoid loud patterns or logos. Bold prints or brand logos can be distracting and take away from the focus — your family’s connection and expressions. So keep that AC/DC shirt tucked away in the drawer for now.

• Plan ahead and try everything on. Lay the outfits out together beforehand, or even snap a quick photo to see how they work together. And if you're unsure, feel free to text or email me — I’m happy to help!

Choosing the Right Location

Your family’s photo sessions can take place in a variety of beautiful and meaningful locations, depending on the vibe you’re going for! I have a go-to list of locations in and around Ventura County if you’re leaning toward an outdoor session for your family. If you’re worried about keeping the kids (or the dog) more contained, the Studio may be the perfect place for you!

In-Studio

• Controlled lighting and temperature (especially nice in extreme weather).

• Access to studio wardrobe, outfit changes, props, and backdrops. 

• Elegant, fine-art feel, cozy lifestyle looks.

Outdoor

• Golden hour light (sunrise or sunset) creates stunning, glowing images, especially in California.

• Scenic spots like beaches, fields, gardens, forests, or even urban areas.

• More natural and candid vibe. Not sure what suits you best? I’ll help you decide based on your style and comfort.

Getting Ready for Your Family Photo Session

Your session is all about capturing the love and connection your family shares — so the more relaxed and prepared you feel, the more fun and meaningful the experience will be. Here are a few helpful tips to make the day smooth and stress-free:

A Few Days Before…

• Plan your outfits ahead of time. Try everything on, check for comfort, and lay the full look out (including shoes and accessories). Don’t forget to iron or steam clothes if needed.

• Pack a “just in case” bag. Bring snacks, water, wipes, a hairbrush, and a change of clothes for little ones — just in case anything spills or someone needs a break.

The Night Before…

• Get a good night’s sleep. Well-rested kiddos (and adults!) make all the difference.

• Lay everything out. Have outfits, shoes, and accessories ready to go so there’s no last-minute scramble.

• Avoid Excess Alcohol. Avoiding excess alcohol the night before can help reduce redness and bloating.

On the Day Of…

• Give yourselves plenty of time. Plan to leave earlier than you think you need to — it’s better to arrive calm and collected.

• Eat a light meal or snack before. This helps avoid "hangry" moods during the session.

• Keep the mood light. Don’t worry about getting the perfect smile — let the kids be themselves! I’ll guide everyone naturally and capture the beautiful in-between moments too.

• Trust the process. You’ve hired me to capture your family’s unique bond, and I promise to take care of the details. Your only job is to show up, be present, and enjoy your time together.

How Long Does a Family Photo Session Last?

Most family sessions take 1 to 1.5 hours. This gives us plenty of time for outfit changes, breaks, and a variety of poses and settings. I like to build in flexibility to keep everyone happy and comfortable.

What’s included in my Family Session?

• Pre-session consultation to plan your ideal session

• In-Studio session or travel to a location within 30 miles of the studio

• Up to 6 total family members (or pets); then an additional $25 per person, per pet

• Outfit changes (2-3)

• Posing guidance

• Location transitions (if applicable)

• Breaks for water, snacks, or kids

• Access to my client closet

• Studio lighting setups

• Backdrop changes (2-3)

• Light editing of final images

• Online Gallery (watermarked)

• Print credit for purchasing digitals, prints and products

What to Expect During Your Session

When you arrive for your session, take a deep breath and relax — this is your time to simply enjoy your family. My sessions are laid-back, playful, and filled with gentle guidance to help everyone feel at ease. I’ll never ask you to “just smile at the camera” for an hour or ask your child to “sit still” for an hour! Instead, we’ll focus on connection, movement, and natural moments that reflect who you are as a family.

Here’s a little peek at how it usually flows:

• We start slow. I’ll get to know your kids, break the ice, and help everyone warm up. No pressure — just a few easy prompts or games to get the giggles going.

• I’ll guide you naturally. I’ll offer gentle direction to help with posing, while still feeling natural, but I’m always watching for those in-between moments — a shared glance, a sweet snuggle, a spontaneous laugh.

• Fun and authentic moments that bring out natural smiles and personalities. I love having fun with kids during the session. I find this helps them relax and trust me. I’ll also let them jump behind the camera and take some photos too!

  There’s room for play. Especially with little ones, I let their energy guide the session. Movement, hugs, dance breaks — it’s all part of capturing the real you.

• The goal is simple: to create a relaxed, enjoyable experience where you can just be together. I’ll take care of the rest — the light, the angles, the emotion — to turn those moments into beautiful images you’ll treasure.

• Breaks for water, snacks and rest.

• An experience that feels like red carpet treatment, with attention to detail, comfort, and care from beginning to end.

  What if my Child (or Pet) Misbehaves during the Session?

First — take a deep breath. It’s completely normal for kids to have big feelings, get distracted, or need a moment during a session. I’ve worked with children of all ages (and energy levels!) and I promise — this is part of the magic.

My job isn’t to capture perfect poses — it’s to capture your family just as you are, and sometimes that includes a little chaos, a silly face, or a much-needed cuddle break. I approach every session with patience, playfulness, and flexibility. I’ll gently guide your child, follow their lead when needed, and use little tricks to keep things light and engaging.

The best thing you can do? Stay calm, keep smiling, and don’t stress. The more relaxed you are, the more your child (and pet) will feel that energy too. And trust me — those unexpected moments often turn into the most memorable photos.

If you are including a pet during your session, be sure to bring their favorite toy or treat! We start or end with them to keep things easy.

What to Expect After Your Session

After your session, we’ll schedule a special Reveal & Ordering Appointment at the studio—this is the moment you’ve been waiting for! You’ll get to relax and enjoy a beautiful, cinematic slideshow of your final images, thoughtfully curated and fully retouched.

Following the reveal, I’ll walk you through the product options, including heirloom albums, wall art, and digital collections. You’ll have the chance to see, touch, and compare everything, so you can choose the pieces that speak to you most. There’s no rush, and no pressure—just guidance and support as you select what you love.

What’s the Investment for a Family Session?

Your portrait session is all about you—from the planning to the final reveal. The session fee covers my time, expertise, and personalized attention to make your experience stress-free and unforgettable.

• One-hour session: $300 (includes a $50 print credit towards the purchase of digitals, prints, or products)

• Two-hour session: $600 (includes a $100 print credit towards the purchase of digitals, prints, or products)

By separating the session fee from product costs, you only invest in the images and artwork you truly love—after you've seen them. No pressure, no guessing—just meaningful choices that fit you perfectly.

• Packages start at $900 and include an album, prints, and digital images

• Individual prints start at $25

• Custom-Designed Albums start $650 (and include corresponding digital images)

• Wall Art start at $350 (and include a corresponding digital image)

• Gallery Canvas Wrap prints start at $425 (and include a corresponding digital image)

• Reveal Boxes starting at $1080 (and include a corresponding digital image)

• Digital Images starting at $50

• Military and First Responders receive a10% discount on all prints and products

Do you offer Payment Plans?

Of course! I'm happy to offer flexible payment options for your prints and products. Many of my clients choose to break their purchase into 2, 3, or 4 payments, allowing them to invest in the pieces they truly love without feeling rushed.

There’s no pressure at all—we’ll take the time to design something beautiful together, and you can move forward at a pace that feels right for you. The best part is, we can begin ordering pieces as payments are made. That way, you can start enjoying some of your artwork right away, or if you prefer, we can wait until the final payment is complete to receive everything at once.

My priority is to create a refined, stress-free experience while delivering timeless and beautifully crafted artwork that will be cherished for generations.

When Can I Expect to Receive Products from my Family Session?

Your finished digital images will be delivered via a private online gallery within 48–72 hours after your payment is made at the Reveal Appointment, so you can start enjoying and sharing them right away!

Printed products and custom artwork take a bit more time to perfect and will be ready for pickup at the studio within 2–3 weeks.

Every piece is carefully crafted to ensure the highest quality—something you’ll be proud to display and treasure for years to come.

Serving Ventura, Santa Barbara, and Los Angeles County