Private Client Lounge

Welcome

This space was created for families who value connection, presence, and meaningful imagery. Whether you are expecting a new baby, soaking in your newborn’s earliest days, or simply wanting to remember your family exactly as you are right now. This is where the experience begins.

My approach is relaxed, natural, and gently guided. I blend lifestyle storytelling with timeless portraiture so your images feel honest, vibrant, and deeply reflective of real life, not stiff or overly posed.

You do not need to perform here.
You do not need to impress me.
You simply need to show up as yourselves.

The Experience

From the moment you inquire, my goal is to make this feel supported and uncomplicated.

Each session includes:

• Thoughtful pre-session communication
• Styling resources and inspiration
• Location recommendations throughout Central Virginia
• A relaxed, gently guided session
• A carefully curated online gallery

During your session, I will laugh, joke, and create small prompts that bring out natural interaction. You do not need to entertain me. You do not need to constantly look at the camera. Much of the time, I will have you engaging with your partner, your baby, or your children while I move quietly in the background documenting what unfolds.

Children are free to move.
Babies are free to need breaks.
You are free to exhale.

The goal is not perfection.
The goal is presence.

mom and dad sitting in the grass playing with toddler girl in a forest in Charlottesville, VA during a maternity session With Erin E Gallagher Photography

What Your Session Feels Like

While every session shares a relaxed, connection-driven approach, each season of life has its own rhythm.

Maternity Sessions

What it feels like
Grounded. Intentional. Calm. Maternity sessions are a space to slow down and acknowledge the transformation you are living through. There is movement, softness, and gentle guidance so you never feel unsure of what to do.

How it flows
Sessions last about 45–60 minutes and take place outdoors during golden hour or in your home with natural light. I guide you into subtle movement and connection rather than rigid posing.

What you don’t have to worry about
You do not need to be a certain size. You do not need to know how to pose. You do not need to feel completely put together. My job is to photograph you in the most generous, beautiful light.

Explore Richmond maternity sessions in more detail

What it feels like
Unhurried. Baby-led. Soft. These sessions center around connection rather than perfection. There is space for feeding, soothing, and simply being together.

How it flows
Lifestyle newborn sessions take place in your home and typically last 1.5–2 hours to allow flexibility. I use natural light and gentle direction to capture moments as they unfold — snuggling on the couch, rocking in the nursery, quiet in-between glances.

What you don’t have to worry about
Your home does not need to be spotless. Your baby does not need to sleep the entire time. Toddlers do not need to cooperate perfectly. Real life is welcome here.

Learn more about my lifestyle newborn photography

Newborn Sessions

What it feels like
Sacred. Emotional. Documentary in nature. These sessions quietly preserve the very first hours of your baby’s life — the tiny details, hospital bracelets, first sibling visits, and overwhelming love.

How it flows
Fresh 48 sessions take place within the first 24–48 hours after birth, typically at the hospital or birthing center. I work gently and unobtrusively, documenting your family as you meet and adjust to this brand new person.

What you don’t have to worry about
You do not need to feel “camera ready.” This session is about honesty. The beauty is already there.

View Fresh 48 hospital session details

Fresh 48 Sessions

Family Sessions

What it feels like
Playful. Connected. Joyful. There is movement, laughter, and natural interaction. We embrace personality rather than trying to contain it.

How it flows
Family sessions last about 60 minutes and take place outdoors or in your home. I guide you through connection-based prompts so you are interacting with each other far more than looking at me.

What you don’t have to worry about
Your children do not need to sit perfectly still. They do not need to smile on command. Some of the most meaningful images come from the in-between moments.

See more of my family photography in Richmond and surrounding areas

Helpful Styling Resources:

• What to Wear for Your Newborn Session
• Maternity Style Inspiration (Pinterest)
• Family Styling Board (Pinterest)

• Newborn Styling Board (Pinterest)

2 sisters holding each other while looking at each other during a summer sunset maternity session in Richmond, VA by Erin E Gallagher Photography

Pricing

Session fees begin at $495.

Each session includes:

• Pre-session planning and support
• Styling resources
• Session time
• Professional editing
• A private online gallery for viewing and selection

Digital collections and heirloom artwork are available after viewing your gallery.

Most families invest between $495 and $700 depending on collection choice.

A 50% retainer is due at booking to reserve your date. The remaining balance is due one week prior to your session.

View full collection details →

Frequently Asked Questions

Maternity sessions are typically scheduled between 28–34 weeks. Booking in the early second trimester is recommended to secure your date.
Lifestyle newborn sessions typically occur within the first 2–3 weeks after birth. It is best to book during pregnancy to ensure availability.
Yes. I provide guidance, but I also trust you.
I have curated Pinterest boards to offer inspiration and ideas, along with a detailed blog post that walks through what photographs beautifully and what to avoid. I’m always happy to offer feedback if you’d like reassurance.
That said, I tend to leave the final choice to you. I want you to feel like your best, most comfortable self. The most important thing is that your clothing feels natural and true to who you are, not like a costume for the camera.
They don’t need to. I build sessions around movement and connection rather than rigid posing. There are a few things you can do to help prepare kids for a photoshoot.
Sessions are held in your home or at carefully selected outdoor locations throughout Central Virginia.
I allot up to 4 weeks for gallery delivery, but I try to make it sooner.
A signed agreement and retainer officially reserve your session on my calendar.