How to Prepare For Your Family Portrait Session

Family portrait sessions can be an easy and enjoyable experience that will be treasured long after you have the photos. Here are some tips and information to help ease your mind about family portrait sessions:

My Mission and Your Vision

I strive to make your family portrait sessions easy, fun, and memorable. I value creating a safe space for people to embrace their authenticity and feel good. It is one of my biggest joys to provide joyful, beautiful, and timeless photos to be enjoyed now and for generations to come.

I often ask clients to hop on a quick intro Zoom chat for us to connect, go over details, and further describe your vision for your photo shoot. Here we can go over options of location and date, must have shots, and anything else that’s on your mind.

Clothing and Posing

The most frequent question asked is “What should I wear?” I like to air on the side of simplicity and what fits your personality. Specifically think about what best fits you and your family. What is your family’s personality? What feels comfortable? Classic black may work for some while vibrant colors work for others. I recommend wearing colors you enjoy while avoiding logos and patterns that are distracting.

Posing for photos does not always come naturally for many of us. If you have ever thought, “I don’t know what to do with my arms! Ugh, I feel so awkward in front of the camera!”- don’t stress, I’ve got you. With over 10 years experience directing people in front of the camera, you will be gently guided with me behind the lens. It will be easier and more comfortable than you think.

Location and Props

We can shoot in the studio, at your home, or at a location of your choice, depending on your vision and comfort level. In other words, it is up to you. My studio in Platt/Wash Park best serves maternity, newborn, and small families. The comfort of your home is great for sentimental purposes and ease as I come to you. Or if you envision nature/greenery/mountains/downtown in the background, I can easily meet you at a neighboring park, garden, etc.

I am often known to bring a bubble machine for the littles, but other than that, I don’t provide any props. If you would like to use props/sentimental outfits/blankets, please bring them. We want to make your photos memorable and special to you.

Session Time and Cancellations

Please anticipate up to 1 hour for a full family photo session. Mini sessions are offered annually and are 15 minute sessions. This will include family shots, parents with child/ren individually, siblings together (if applicable), and child/ren individually.

Life happens. Weather can be unpredictable in Colorado and people get sick. Rest assured we can reschedule your outdoor session if the weather is bad or if a family member is sick.

What to Expect After Your Session

Portraits sessions have a 1-2 week turnaround for your proofing gallery to be ready to view. Depending on the digital file package chosen, you will then be able to select the amount of images you want. Those images will then be finalized and sent your way in high resolution.

The digital file portrait packages offered include the portrait session fee and whichever set of digital files you choose afterwards. Packages include 25 digital files, 50 digital files, or the entire collection (all the images in your proofing gallery). All families start at the base package of 25 images to reserve their spot. Returning families and referred friends/families then receive an additional 5 digital files to whichever package they choose.

Booking Your Session

I can be reached at info@noellewilliamsphotography.com for all inquiries and questions about booking a family photo session. I look forward to meeting you and your family!