SAN FRANCISCO FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER
How My Photo Sessions Work + Pricing Information
A Session That Feels Like You
This isn’t about stiff poses or forcing everyone to smile at the camera the whole time.
It’s about creating images that reflect who your family is in this season of life, while still capturing a few of those classic, frame-worthy moments along the way.
We’ll plan your session around simple, meaningful activities, at home or somewhere you love. I’ll guide things when needed, but you’ll have space to relax, connect, and be yourselves.
Scroll down to explore the different session options.
2 Types of Family Sessions:
Lifestyle Sessions (Family, Newborn & Maternity)
Perfect for families who want natural, beautiful photos without the fuss.
These sessions are relaxed and easygoing, with a balance of candid moments and gentle guidance. I’ll encourage connection, movement, and play, while also making space for quieter, more still moments.
The result is a mix of images that feel natural and unforced, along with a few timeless portraits along the way.
Investment
Session fee: $350
Collections: $500–$1,000
Total investment: $850–$1,350
Collections include a set number of fully edited, high-resolution digital images (with print release), along with a print credit to use in your online gallery store.
Maternity + Newborn Package
Book both and receive 20% off the total session fees. Contact me for details.
See examples here: Lifestyle Gallery ; Newborn Gallery ; Maternity Gallery
Documentary Family Sessions
A fully documentary session designed to capture your family as you really are.
We’ll plan the session around your everyday rhythms and favorite activities. We’ll typically spend 3–4 hours together, often starting at home and including an outing somewhere you love.
There’s no posing or directing during the session, just real moments as they unfold. If you’d like, we can set aside a few minutes at the end for a simple family portrait.
All of the best images are included as fully edited, high-resolution digital files, with the freedom to print through your gallery or wherever you prefer.
Investment
$2,100 (or 3 payments of $700)
See examples here: Documentary Family Gallery
How it works:
Before the Session
Let’s connect.
We’ll start with a quick call to get to know each other, talk through your ideas, and make sure everything feels like a good fit.Lock in your date.
You’ll sign your session agreement and submit your deposit online to reserve your spot.Plan the details.
We’ll finalize the plan for your session, and I’ll send over guidance on things like what to wear, how to prepare, and what to expect, so everything feels easy going in.
During the Session
Documentary Sessions: I’ll ease in with a quick hello, then begin photographing as your day unfolds. Sometimes I’m a quiet observer, and other times I’m right there with you, playing with the kids or following along on whatever you have planned. I’ll move with the rhythm of your day and capture things as they naturally happen.
Lifestyle Sessions: Once everyone has had a chance to settle in, I’ll gently guide you into a few relaxed, natural poses that encourage connection. From there, we let things unfold more organically. Fun and laughter are just as welcome as the quieter, more still moments.
After the Session
About 2-3 weeks after your session, your images will be thoughtfully edited and delivered in a private online gallery, where you can download your photos and order high-quality prints, albums, and products.
Documentary Sessions: All of your edited, high-resolution images are included and delivered once your final payment is complete.
Lifestyle Photo Sessions: When your gallery is ready, you’ll choose the collection that best fits your needs. Each collection includes a set number of digital images along with a print credit to use in your gallery store.
“You know it was good when your 4-year-old asks if we can do it again.”
— Dan Williams
Family Photography FAQ
What should we wear for our family pictures?
The best outfits are the ones that feel like you.
Instead of matching exactly, aim for a coordinated look that feels natural and comfortable. When everyone feels good in what they’re wearing, it shows in the photos.
A few things to keep in mind:
Start with one outfit you love. Build the rest of the family’s outfits around it so everything feels cohesive without being overly planned.
Stick to a soft, complementary color palette. Neutrals, earth tones, and muted colors tend to photograph beautifully together.
Mix textures over patterns. A little pattern is great, but too many can feel busy on camera.
Choose outfits you can move in. You’ll be sitting, walking, picking up kids—comfort matters more than you think.
Think about your home. If you plan to display your photos, choose tones that will work well in your space.
After you book, I’ll send a prep guide with more ideas and examples to help you feel confident going into your session.
What are the best photo locations in the San Francisco Bay Area?
There are so many beautiful options, and the best location really depends on the look and feel you’re drawn to.
Some families love the comfort of an in-home session, while others prefer an outdoor setting like a beach, park, or one of San Francisco’s iconic spots. I frequently photograph in places like the Presidio, Golden Gate Park, Lands End, and along the Embarcadero, but there are great locations all throughout the Bay Area.
I’m always happy to help you choose a location that fits your style, your family, and the overall feel you’re going for.
What are your favorite beach photo locations?
There are so many beautiful beach options around the Bay Area, and I’m always happy to help you choose one that fits your family and the overall feel you’re going for.
Baker Beach is a popular choice for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge views, but it can get quite crowded. I often recommend quieter spots that feel more relaxed and are a bit easier with kids.
Some of my go-to locations include Crissy Field (East Beach) in the Presidio, beaches in Half Moon Bay like Poplar Beach, and I have favorite East Bay spot that’s a little more tucked away.
If you’re not sure what would be best, I’ll help you choose a location that’s both beautiful and comfortable for your family.
What time of day is best for family photos?
Timing plays a big role in how your photos will look and feel.
For in-home sessions, we typically shoot in the middle of the day when natural light is strongest and fills your space.
For outdoor sessions, the best light is usually during the hour or two before sunset (often called “golden hour”) or shortly after sunrise. This softer light is more flattering and gives your images that warm, natural look.
In the Bay Area, the timing can shift depending on the season, fog, and location, so I’ll help you choose the best time for your specific session.
How long are the family sessions?
Most lifestyle family sessions last between 45 minutes and 90 minutes.
I keep things flexible so the experience feels relaxed and enjoyable, especially with younger kids. Some sessions move quickly, while others take a little more time depending on the pace of your family.
If you’re booking a documentary session, those are longer and typically last around 3–4 hours.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, I love dogs!
As long as your location allows pets and any leash rules are followed, you’re absolutely welcome to include them in your session.
Are all photos candid, or can we have some posed photos as well?
My style is natural and relaxed, with a focus on connection and real moments—but I always make time for a few more traditional, posed portraits as well.
Before your session, we’ll talk through what you’re drawn to so I can tailor the experience to you. Some families prefer more candid moments, while others want a bit more direction, and most fall somewhere in between.
What if my kids don’t cooperate?
That’s completely normal, and nothing to worry about.
I’ve worked with kids of all ages and personalities over the years, so I’m very used to navigating everything from high energy to total meltdowns. I never expect kids to behave perfectly, and some of the best moments come when things don’t go exactly as planned.
I’ll gently guide things when needed, but I also leave space for kids to be themselves. We keep things relaxed, follow their energy, and take breaks if needed.