Family Portraits

As a family portrait photographer my desire is to document love and connection in a natural and authentic way. My sessions are a fun and uncontrived experience. I have photographed hundreds of family sessions since 2000. My goal is always to represent a combination of technical skills, artistic creativity, and a joyful experience.

As a professional photographer that specializes in family portraits my goal is to see that each family is unique and is worthy of images that reflect their own personality and to capture the love and connection they share. I feel that each portrait session is different, therefore I make the pre-planning process a priority. From a location selection to suggesting clothing options is always an important element in any family photo shoot.

Testimonial

“We had a family photo session with David, and it was a fantastic experience! I’m not the most natural in front of the camera and don’t know many poses, but David created such a comfortable experience. He was punctual, patient, and very efficient. The pictures turned out great! Would definitely use his services again if we were in the area for another special occasion”. Amy Tran

Types of Family Portraits

Candid Family Moments

My approach to a candid photo session is to document the essence of the families daily life, typically in their home or backyard. The goal being to photography unscripted moments that are a true reflection of relationships and personalities.

Multi-Generational Portraits

These sessions provide an opportunity to document the different generations of a family in a single photograph. Multi-generational portraits can serve as a way to build and leave a visual legacy, reminding future generations of their heritage and the importance of family bonds

Pet-Inclusive Family Portraits

I love including family pets in photo shoots. Sometimes confirming ahead of time with certain venues about the pet policies is always a good idea.

The Portrait Experience

Step-by-Step Process of the Family Portrait Session

Day of the shoot and what to expect: I typically reach out and confirm day, time and location a few days prior tot the photo shoot. Checking the tide and weather for beach shoots, sunset time and wind conditions helps you to prepare. For family members with longer hair, I always recommend some type of light hair get to prevent “fly-away”. Depending on the size of your group each session is around 45 minutes to an hour.

Consultation and planning: I always enjoy hearing from each of my clients about what is important to them. Discussing location settings, time of day and clothing options all help to create a successful session.

Photo editing and number of photos received: My post shoot photo editing consists of general color and tonal correction and “light” retouching. Keep in mind that extensive cosmetic retouching is not included in the package price. If needed feel free to reach out for Retouching fees.

Viewing and ordering after session: Around 7 days after the photo shoot you will receive both a password protected viewing gallery along with all your individual final photos. The number of photos received is based on the number i your group. Around 50 final images is typical.

Special needs situations: Please reach out in our pre-planning to let me know about any special situations that would need to be considered and how I can accommodate those.

Portfolio Of Family Portraits

You can view a sample of recent family photo sessions here .

Pricing and Packages

Families: Up to a 1-hour session. Includes approximately 50 finished images in an online viewing gallery along with high-resolution files. – $445
Seniors & Graduates: Up to a 45-minute session. Includes approximately 20 finished images in a web gallery and all high-resolution files. – $385
All sessions include the following:
Time and talent of the photographer
An online gallery to browse and select your images.
Basic color and exposure correction of all images in your gallery
Travel to most Central Coast locations (Pismo Beach to Paso Robles)
Family sessions are for up to 6 people in an immediate family unit. Please contact me for a custom quote on larger group sessions.

Booking Information

How to book a family portrait session: Shoot me an email or feel free to call.
Contact information and form here.

FAQs

How is the location of the shoot determined?
A. Even though I’m happy to suggest locations and times, my clients typically do their own research in regard to the location and setting along with securing any type of permission needed.
Do I have to order prints through you?
A. Not at all! Since you receive the high resolution files, you’re welcome to have printed on your own, however, you can also order prints right off your image gallery. Any prints ordered are professionally printed with accurate skin tones, etc.
What should we wear?
A. Above all else, wear something that you feel comfortable in. I generally recommend that families coordinate tones and colors to create a pleasing color palette for their images. Matching outfits are not required (and in my opinion should be avoided.) If you are struggling with what to wear, I recommend choosing an outfit for the most difficult person to dress first, then coordinating the other outfits around that color palette. Feel free to reach out if you need help!
Do you photograph weddings?
A. Presently I am doing intimate weddings along with elopements. Reach out and we can chat about your event.