What’s Actually Included in a Family Photo Session
You’ve decided to book a family photo session. Now what?
Most families reach out excited about getting updated photos, but they’re not entirely sure what happens next. What’s included? How long does it take? When do you get your images?
This guide walks you through the entire process, from our first conversation to the moment you receive your finished gallery.
Before the Session
Initial Consultation
We start with a free 30-minute consultation. This is where we talk about what you’re hoping to get from your session.
I’ll ask about:
- Who’s being photographed
- What you plan to do with the images (gallery wall, holiday cards, gifts)
- Your comfort level with being photographed
- Any specific shots you need
This conversation helps me understand your vision and plan a session that actually works for your family.
Location and Timing
We’ll choose a location together. I work regularly at the North Carolina Botanical Garden, Merritt’s Pasture, and Morgan Creek. Your own backyard works beautifully too.
Timing matters more than you might think. Late afternoon light (about 90 minutes before sunset) creates that warm, flattering glow you see in professional photos. Morning sessions work well for families with young kids who get cranky later in the day.
Outfit Coordination
Three days before your session, I’ll send you a Pinterest board with outfit inspiration. You don’t need matching outfits, but coordinating colors makes a difference.
Think layers, textures, and a cohesive color palette rather than everyone wearing the same shade of blue.
Need help pulling together the perfect look? Style&Select is a styling service that can handle the entire outfit selection process for you.
Shot List and Special Requests
Have a specific shot in mind? Tell me. Want to recreate a photo from when the kids were little? Bring the original. Need individual shots of each child for grandparents? I’ll make sure we get them.
During the Session
Session Length
Most family sessions run 60-90 minutes. That gives us time to get everyone comfortable, try different spots, and capture both posed portraits and candid moments.
Shorter sessions (15-30 minutes) work for headshots or quick family updates.
Outfit Changes
One outfit works for most families. If you want variety, bring a second option. We can usually fit in two looks without rushing.
Personal branding sessions are different – the mini includes up to 2 outfits, the deluxe allows unlimited changes.
Posing Guidance
I’ll guide you through everything. Where to stand, how to hold your kids, where to look.
For young children, I keep things short and playful. We move quickly, follow their energy, and grab moments between the chaos. Forcing a three-year-old to sit still never works.
What to Bring vs. What I Provide
You bring:
- Outfits (including backup options for kids)
- Any props or sentimental items
- Water and snacks for kids
- Your shot list
I bring:
- All camera equipment and backup gear
- Off-camera lighting if needed
- Posing guidance and direction
- Years of experience wrangling reluctant family members
After the Session
Turnaround Time
Family sessions: 1-2 weeks Dance performances: 1 week General sessions: 2-3 weeks (often sooner)
I’ll send you an email when your gallery is ready.
How Many Images You’ll Receive
This depends on your package:
- Basic packages include 5-10 edited images
- Mid-tier packages include 20-30 images
- Premium packages include 40+ images
All deliverable images go in your gallery. I only exclude photos that are technically flawed (blurry, eyes closed, unflattering expressions).
Editing Process and Style
Every image gets edited in Lightroom Classic. I adjust exposure, color balance, and overall tone to create a cohesive look.
I don’t do heavy retouching or dramatic filters. Your family should look like your family – just the best version, with flattering light and thoughtful composition.
Digital File Delivery
You’ll receive high-resolution digital files suitable for prints up to 8×10. Larger prints are available through your gallery’s print shop, where I’ve already color-corrected everything for professional printing.
Your gallery lives online through SproutStudio. Download your files, share the link with family, or order prints directly.
The Gallery Experience
Your online gallery includes:
- All your edited images
- Easy download options
- Professional print ordering
- Sharing capabilities
You can favorite images, add them to a cart, and order everything from wallet prints to 4×8 wall art.
For clients building gallery walls, I can walk you through layout options and sizing recommendations.
What’s NOT Included (But Available)
Additional prints and products: Order directly through your gallery. Professional labs handle printing and shipping.
Extended family add-ons: Adding grandparents or additional family groups? We can build that into your session.
Rush delivery: Need images faster? Ask about rush processing.
Additional locations: Want to shoot at two different spots in one session? We can make that work.
Choosing the Right Package
Basic packages work well if you need a few updated family portraits for holiday cards or social media.
Mid-tier packages give you more variety – different groupings, locations within one spot, and a solid selection for printing.
Premium packages are ideal for families who want comprehensive coverage, multiple looks, and plenty of options for gifts and gallery walls.
Not sure which fits your needs? That’s exactly what our consultation call is for.
Ready to Book?
The process is simple:
- Schedule your free consultation
- Choose your package and date
- Sign the contract and pay your 25% deposit
- Show up ready to have fun
Still have questions? That’s normal. Schedule a consultation and we’ll talk through everything.
Contact: heather@sourwoodphotography.com | 919-323-5053 | staging.sourwoodphotography.com/
