Family & Newborn Photography FAQs in Richmond & Central Virginia

I photograph both indoors and outdoors, and the choice really comes down to what feels best for you, the season, and the type of session you’re booking. Newborn sessions almost always happen indoors where it’s cozy and comfortable, and during the winter months we typically stay inside too. Beyond that, it’s totally up to you—some families love the warmth and intimacy of home sessions, while others prefer the openness and golden light of the outdoors. When we plan your session, just let me know what feels right, and we’ll make it happen.

Most sessions move along pretty quickly, usually under 45 minutes, because kids (and parents!) only have so much patience for being in front of a camera. For newborn sessions, I set aside a little more time, usually about 1 to 1.5 hours. That way there’s plenty of space for breaks, feedings, diaper changes, or a quick reset if little ones need to play for a bit. It keeps everything relaxed and stress-free so we can focus on capturing the moments that matter most.

I want your photos to feel like you: real, honest, and true to your family’s personality. That starts with wearing something clothing you feel comfortable and confident in. If you’d like a little extra guidance, I usually suggest coordinating outfits rather than everyone matching perfectly. It feels more natural and lets each person’s personality shine.

A few pro tips: soft, neutral, or earthy tones tend to photograph beautifully, while avoiding big logos or super-bright neon colors helps keep the focus on your faces and connections. Pinterest can be a great spot for inspiration if you’re looking to pull ideas together.

And don’t worry. You don’t have to figure it all out alone. I’ll be in touch the week before your session, so if you’re stuck on outfits or just want a second opinion, I’m more than happy to help. We’ll figure it out together.

I can usually schedule a session within 1-2 months of booking, but sometimes we may need to schedule further out.

Yes! All of your photos will be delivered in a beautiful online gallery where you can easily view, download, and share them with family and friends. From there, you’ll also have the option to order high-quality prints, albums, or wall art directly through the gallery, making it simple to bring your photos off the screen and into your home. Of course, you’re welcome to download your images and print them on your own too. The gallery just makes it extra easy if you’d like everything in one place.

I do have an online store connected to your gallery where you can order high-quality prints, albums, and wall art. It’s an easy way to bring your photos to life. But you’re also more than welcome to use another printing resource if you prefer. Either way, I’m always here to help. If you have questions about sizing, products, or the best way to display your images, just reach out. I’d love to guide you.

At the current time I accept all major credit cards. Credit card payments can be made through my booking and scheduling site. You will be sent an invoice once we schedule a date for the shoot.

To officially reserve your date, a 50% deposit is due at the time of booking. The remaining balance is due the week before your session. This way, everything is taken care of ahead of time and you can simply relax and enjoy your shoot.

Newborn sessions are ideally scheduled within the first month after your baby arrives. Those early weeks are such a tender, fleeting time, and capturing your little one while they’re still fresh in that newborn stage helps preserve all those tiny details and sweet snuggly moments you’ll want to remember forever.

That said, life with a new baby is anything but predictable, and I completely understand. If your session ends up happening a little later, don’t worry. We’ll still create beautiful, meaningful images of your baby and your family together.

Maternity sessions are best scheduled anytime after 26 weeks. By then, your beautiful bump is showing, but you’re usually still comfortable enough to move around and enjoy the session. Waiting until 39 weeks can make things a little trickier (and a lot less comfortable), so it’s good to keep that in mind when planning.

I always recommend booking early so you can reserve the date that works best for you and know it’s all set before those final weeks fly by.

The timing of your session really depends on the type of photos you’d like and where we’ll be shooting. Since I work with natural light, good light is key. For outdoor sessions, we’ll usually plan around “golden hour”, that dreamy window just before sunset when the light is soft and glowing (the exact time shifts with the seasons). For indoor sessions, mid to late morning tends to be best, when natural light fills the room in the most flattering way.

But don’t worry. You don’t have to figure this out on your own. When we’re scheduling your session, I’ll guide you to the best timing so you can just show up and enjoy.

I don’t offer mini sessions on a regular basis, but a few times a year I may open up a limited number. Minis are a wonderful option if you’re looking for quick seasonal photos, like holiday cards or updated family portraits, without committing to a full session.

The best way to hear about them is to join my mailing list. That way, you’ll be the first to know when spots become available and can snag one before they fill up.

Ready to book? Just head to my contact page (or click the button below) and fill out the form. From there, I’ll send over everything you need, available dates, a quote, the session agreement, and invoice. Once your deposit is in, your date is officially yours! Sessions do tend to fill quickly, so reaching out early is the best way to lock in the time that works best for you.

I don’t do sneak peaks as a rule. My goal is always to get you your photos as quickly as possible.

It really depends on if we are in the busy season or not. I can usually edit and return a gallery in 3 to 4 weeks at the most, but I always try to get you your gallery as quickly as possible. So it may be sooner.

yes, I do.

I charge by the hour. First hour is my normal family rate of $495. Any additional hours are $100 off my normal rate.

Yes, I do. My senior sessions are priced similarly to my family sessions ($495). If interested, reach out to me, and we can talk further.