What to Expect When You Book Family Photos

If you’re anything like me, the first time you book any sort of professional photos, you have absolutely no idea what to expect. I remember wondering things like: What happens after I inquire? How do we choose a location? Am I supposed to know how to look good in pictures? If those questions are running through your mind, no worries, I got you! That’s why I wrote this guide on what to expect when you book family photos.

I want the entire experience—from the moment you inquire to the day you receive your gallery—to feel simple, enjoyable, and stress-free. My process actually begins long before your session day, and every step is designed to help your family feel prepared and relaxed so we can create photos you’ll love!

Here’s exactly what you can expect when you book family photos:

Step 1: You Reach Out

First things first—you decide you love my work (yay!) and send me an inquiry. You can reach out here, hint hint.

We’ll chat back and forth about what you’re envisioning, answer any questions you have, and find a date that works for your family.

Step 2: We Make It Official

Once we’ve chosen a date, we’ll take care of the not-so-exciting but very important details: your contract and retainer.

After your contract is signed and your retainer is paid, your session is officially reserved on my calendar. Now the fun begins!

Step 3: You Receive My Family Session Prep Guide

Soon after booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email with two of my favorite resources:

• My comprehensive Family Session Prep Guide
• My Family Questionnaire

The prep guide is packed with everything you could possibly need to know. Seriously—it’s 14 pages of tips covering what to wear, how to prepare your kids, timing, expectations, and answers to the questions families ask most often.

My goal is that you never feel like you’re guessing what comes next.

Step 4: You Fill Out the Questionnaire (This Is the Best Part!)

I know, I know I can hear you groaning from hear. Yes, you do have to fill out a questionnaire, but trust me, this is what will ensure your session is magic!

Through the questionnaire, I learn about your family, your kid’s personalities, what moments matter most to you, and what you’re hoping these photographs will feel like years from now. I’ll also learn about your family’s favorite music so we can have a dance party at your session!

All of these details help us co-create a session that’s personal to your family!

Step 5: We Plan the Details Together

Using your questionnaire and everything you’ve shared, we’ll finalize the location, timing, and any other details for your session.

Whether you’re dreaming of a golden-hour field, a walk through Forest Park, or an in-home newborn session, we’ll choose the setting that best fits your family’s story.

Step 6: Optional Planning Call

About a month before your session, we have the option to hop on a phone call.

This isn’t required, but many families find it helpful. It’s a great time to ask questions, talk through outfit ideas, or simply get to know each other before your session.

By the time your session arrives, you’ll feel like you’re meeting a friend rather than a stranger with a camera!

Step 7: One Last Check-In

About a week before your session, I’ll send another email with all the logistical details you’ll need.

You’ll know exactly where to park, where we’ll meet, what the weather is looking like, and any last-minute reminders so you can show up feeling confident instead of scrambling.

Step 8: Session Day!

Your session day is finally here!

By this point, we’ve already done so much preparation that all you have to do is show up and enjoy your family.

We’ll play games, explore, cuddle, laugh, chase little ones, and take breaks whenever we need them. I’ll guide you through the entire session so you never have to wonder what to do with your hands or worry about getting your kids to smile.

Some of the most beautiful images happen during the in-between moments—the giggles, the snuggles, the tiny hands reaching for yours.

Those are the moments I’m always looking for.

Step 9: Your Gallery Arrives

After your session, I’ll carefully edit every image so they’re beautifully curated.

You’ll receive a few sneak peeks shortly after your session (because I know waiting is hard!), and your full online gallery will be delivered within 4–6 weeks.

From there, you’ll be able to download your images, share them with family, change your phone background, print them…in short, you’ll be able to treasure them for years to come!

What to Expect When You Book Family Photos- My Goal

Family photography should never feel stressful.

My hope is that by the time your session arrives, you feel completely prepared, your kids feel comfortable, and you can simply enjoy being together while I document it all.

If you still have questions after reading this, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I genuinely love helping families prepare—from choosing outfits to selecting the perfect location—and I’m always happy to help make your experience as easy as possible!

Best,

Sara