Dreamy photos of a young family hugging at the lava fields in Santa Clara Utah. i

Booking a family session can feel like a leap, especially if it's your first time working with a photographer — or your first time in front of the camera as a full family in a while. Here's exactly what the experience looks like from start to finish, so you can show up feeling prepared instead of nervous.

Before the session

Once you've booked, I'll be in touch to talk through location, timing, and styling. This is where we figure out the details together — what backdrop fits your family's vibe, what time of day gives us the best light, and what colors will help everyone stand out beautifully rather than blend into the scenery. If you've read my post on what to wear in the red rocks, you already know the basics, but I'm always happy to look at outfit photos beforehand and offer feedback. ‍

A few days before your session, I'll send a short reminder with the location, meeting spot, and a few last tips so nothing feels last-minute.

When we meet

I always build in a few minutes at the start just to chat and let everyone settle in. Kids especially pick up on nervous energy, so the calmer and more relaxed you are, the smoother the whole session goes. I promise — I'm not expecting perfection from anyone, least of all the kids.

Soft pink sunset light surrounding parents and their kids during epic family photo session in St. George Utah.

During the session

Sessions are a mix of guided posing and candid play. I'll direct you into a few classic shots — the ones you'll want for the wall or the holiday card — and then we loosen up. I'll prompt little games, silly questions, or movement (twirling, piggyback rides, tickle attacks) to get genuine laughter and connection on camera. Those candid in-between moments are almost always the favorites once you see the gallery.

If you have young kids, don't worry about meltdowns or wiggly toddlers. I've photographed enough families to know that real life shows up during sessions, and honestly, some of the sweetest images come from those unscripted moments.

How long it takes

Most family sessions run somewhere between 60 and 120 minutes depending on your package, with time built in for outfit changes, multiple locations, or extended family if needed. We move at a pace that keeps kids engaged rather than overwhelmed — short bursts of focused shooting with breaks to run around in between.

After the session

You won't see every image I take. I cull through and select the best of the bunch, then bring my full editing style to each one. Turnaround time is typically 1-3 weeks for your online gallery, where you'll be able to view, favorite, and begin selecting images for prints or products. Time can vary based on type of session and the amount of photos taken.

If your package includes a styling consultation or wall art ordering session, I'll reach out separately to schedule that once your gallery is ready.

A few things to bring

A water bottle and not messy snack for younger kids, just in case.
A small toy or comfort item if it helps your child feel at ease. These often look cute in some of the photos too.
Patience and a sense of humor — the best sessions are the ones where everyone just lets go and has fun.

The honest truth

Family sessions aren't about achieving a flawless, stiff portrait where everyone holds a perfect smile. They're about creating a small window of time where I get to capture exactly who your family is right now — the connection, the chaos, the love. That's the whole point, and it's what makes these images worth having on your walls for years to come.

Ready to book your own session? Reach out here and let's start planning.