SAN FRANCISCO FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER
How My Photo Sessions Work + Pricing Information
This isn’t your average portrait session.
We’re creating and preserving memories for your family that represent who you are at a particular point in time. The goal isn’t to have everyone smiling at the camera, but for me to capture beautiful images that feel true to your family.
We’ll plan the session around some of your favorite family activities, in and around your home or places you love. You’re encouraged to have fun, connect, explore, and be yourselves.
Keep scrolling to learn about the different photo sessions I offer.
2 Types of Family Sessions:
Lifestyle Session: Families/Newborn/ Maternity
Perfect for families who want portraits without the fuss. These sessions are relaxed and easygoing, but are more composed and directed than documentary sessions. I will encourage lots of playing and cuddles and I’m also happy to honor the quiet moments too. Take a deep breath, relax, and enjoy this time with the ones you love.
Investment: Session fee of $350 + a collection package
Collection packages include a number of fully edited, downloadable high-res image files (with a print-release) and a print credit to be used in your online gallery store.
Collections begin at $500.
Maternity + Newborn Package: Save 20% off the total Session Fee when you book both. Contact for more details.
See examples here: Lifestyle Gallery ; Newborn Gallery ; Maternity Gallery
Documentary Family Session
This is a documentary photoshoot with your family that is planned around some of your family’s favorite activities. We spend about 3-4 hours together, typically with a good portion of that at home, plus an outing somewhere fun. There’s no posing or directing, but we can set aside 15 minutes for a family portrait if you’d like.
All the best images are included as fully edited, high-resolution image files. Images may be printed through your online gallery or at the print lab of your choice.
Investment: 3 payments of $600
See examples here: Documentary Family Gallery
How it works:
Before the Session
1. First, let’s meet! We’ll schedule a phone call to get to know one another. Tell me any ideas you may have for you and your family and make sure we’re a good fit.
2. You’ll sign a session agreement and pay a deposit to lock in your date. Everything is done online and made easy for you.
3. We’ll solidify our plans, and I’ll send you tips and offer guidance about things like what to wear and how to prepare for your family session.
During the Session
Documentary Sessions: I come in and say a quick hello, but then I get right to photographing the day. At times I’m a fly on the wall, and other times you will see me crawling on the ground, playing with the kids. I’ll tag along on whatever adventures we might have planned or wherever the day may take us.
Lifestyle Sessions: After we meet and everyone’s warmed up, I guide you into some relaxed poses that encourage lots of connection, and then we let things unfold organically. Fun and laughter are appreciated as much as quiet and still moments.
After the Session
After your portrait session, edited images will be presented to you in your private online gallery. You can download your images and buy high-quality prints, albums, and products directly from the gallery shop.
Documentary Sessions: All high-resolution edited images are included upon your final payment.
Lifestyle Photo Sessions: Upon receiving your gallery, you’ll choose a collection package that suits your needs and budget. There are 3 different options, each containing a certain number of photo downloads and print credits.
“You know it was good when your 4-year-old asks if we can do it again.”
— Dan Williams
Family Photography FAQ
What should we wear for our family pictures?
Gone are the days of super-matchy family outfits. Your outfits should be comfortable and reflect your family's personality. No matter what you choose to wear, make sure that you feel comfortable and confident in your clothing. I offer all my clients a wardrobe prep guide laying out different outfit option ideas, but here are some general suggestions.
Start with one person. Mom, I’m looking at you! Find an outfit that you love, and coordinate the rest of the family with your outfit.
For guys, keep it simple. Jeans or neutral pants and a t-shirt, sweater, or button-down (rolled sleeves for a casual look) are all easy options.
For kids, let them have fun! They can get away with wearing more patterns and colors. If they are resistant to the outfit you've chosen for them, let them bring a fun accessory to wear in a few photos.
Choose colors that complement each other and the environment. For example, if we're going to be in a green grassy field, don't wear green!
Another tip is to keep in mind your end goal with your photos. Will you display these as art collections in your home, or are they for a specific event or season?
What are the best photo locations in the San Francisco Bay Area?
Some of my clients prefer to take their family photos at home, while others choose a beach, park, or an iconic San Francisco location. I frequently photograph in The Presidio, along the Embarcadero, Golden Gate Park, and Lands End.
What are your favorite beach photo locations?
Baker Beach is extremely popular for family photos, but it can also be very crowded. I prefer to find less crowded beaches, as well as bay beaches that are safer for children.
What time of day is best for family photos?
If we’re doing an indoor photo session at home, we will have our session in the middle of the day to maximize natural light. For outdoor family photos, I recommend around two hours before sunset or after sunrise.
How long are the family sessions?
Family photo sessions are typically 45 minutes to an hour and a half. I want it to be a fun and enjoyable experience, so the time will vary depending on the age of your children.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, I love dogs! As long as they’re allowed at the location and leash rules are followed, you’re welcome to bring them.
Are all photos candid, or can we have some posed photos as well?
My family photography style is very natural and relaxed, focusing mainly on connection, but I always take a little time for posed portraits. When we have our initial consultation, we can discuss if you’re wanting more posed or more candid moments captured, and I’ll tailor the session accordingly.