Family Photo Session Questions, Answered
Clear answers to the questions families in Victoria and on the Saanich Peninsula ask me most.
Booking a photo session for the first time can bring up a lot of questions. What do we wear? Where do we go? What if the baby cries the whole time? I promise, you’re not the first to wonder.
I’ve gathered the questions I hear most often from families in Victoria and on the Saanich Peninsula. If yours isn’t here, please reach out. I’m always happy to help.
Before Your Session
Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive an email with a prep guide, a link to a Pinterest board with outfit ideas and a fun questionnaire that helps me get to know your family. We’ll also have a free style and location consultation, so you’ll go into your session feeling prepared. My session guide covers preparation and outfits in more detail.
Booking and Availability
I have limited availability, so it’s best to reach out as soon as you know roughly when you’d like your session. Let me know your preferred date, whether you’re hoping for in-home or outdoor photos and a little about your family. If you’d like to talk things over first, you’re welcome to request a free discovery call before you book through my contact page.
After Your Session
Every image is individually retouched and edited with true skin tones. Your photos arrive in a private online gallery for viewing and sharing, and you’ll have full-resolution digitals with printing rights. I also offer prints, albums and canvases through a professional lab, and my top two packages include a custom-designed luxury album. You can compare everything on my Investment page.
Frequently asked questions
How long is a session?
Maternity sessions are typically about an hour. For other session types, we’ll talk through timing when you book so it suits your family and your little ones’ routines.
Do you photograph at home or outdoors?
Both. Many families love an outdoor session at a beach, forest, field or garden, while others prefer the comfort of home. In-home sessions are a great option for newborns and on rainy days. Read more about in-home family photography.
How do we choose a location?
We’ll choose together during your free style and location consultation. I’ll share some of my tried-and-true spots on the Island that suit your family and the season.
What should we wear?
Comfortable clothes in coordinating, mostly solid or neutral colours tend to work best, and I’ll send a Pinterest style board after you book. If you’re unsure, bring a few options to show me during your style consultation.
Do you have outfits I can borrow?
For maternity sessions, yes. I have a few outfits in my client closet if you don’t have something of your own, and I can refer you for hair and makeup too.
When should we book newborn photos?
Newborn photos are best when your baby is 5 to 10 days old, while they’re still very sleepy, and can be done up to about three weeks. It’s a good idea to reach out during pregnancy so we can plan ahead.
Can grandparents or cousins join our family session?
Yes. Family packages include immediate family, and additional people such as grandparents, cousins or friends can be added for a small per-person fee. Details are on my Investment page.
Do you travel for sessions?
I’m based in North Saanich and photograph across the Saanich Peninsula and Greater Victoria. Travel fees may apply for locations more than 25 km from North Saanich, so just ask for details.
My kids don’t love having their picture taken. Will this work?
Absolutely. My sessions are laid back and focus on play and connection, not stiff posing or “say cheese”. Here are a few ideas for making your kids laugh that help too.
Will we get black-and-white versions?
Yes, free black-and-white copies are included with most of my session packages, so you can enjoy both a colour and a timeless monochrome version of your favourites. The Investment page shows which packages include them.
Let’s connect
Tell me a little about your family and the session you have in mind, and I’ll get back to you with dates and ideas.