"We need family photos … does anyone know a good photographer?!”
If you’ve ever asked this, you’re not alone!
Choosing the right family photographer is a big deal—you want someone who can capture your family’s personalities, make the process fun (instead of stressful), and create photos you’ll actually want to print and frame.
The good news is finding the perfect family photographer doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
Whether you're booking your first session or looking for a new photographer, I’m breaking down everything you need to know—so you can feel confident in your choice and get the beautiful family photos you deserve.
Q: What can I expect during a family photography session?
A great family session should feel fun, relaxed, and natural—not like a formal school portrait.
Here’s how it typically flows:
- Before the Session – We’ll plan the location, timing, and outfit inspiration so you feel completely prepared and stress-free.
- During the Shoot – Expect lots of movement, laughter, and gentle prompts to bring out natural smiles and connections. No need to worry about stiff poses (or kids sitting still!) — I’ll guide everyone in a way that feels fun and authentic.
- After the Session – You’ll receive an online gallery of unedited images where you’ll get to hand-pick your favorites based on your collection. Once you’ve chosen, I’ll hand-edit each selected image and deliver them as high-resolution digital files straight to your inbox. This gives you the freedom to print, share, and enjoy your photos however you’d like.
Optional Add-Ons – If you’d like to turn your favorites into custom-framed artwork or a timeless heirloom album, I also offer complimentary, personalized ordering appointments to walk you through design options.
Q: What should we wear for our family session?
The #1 question families ask me: "What do we wear?!"
Here are my top tips:
- Start with Mom’s outfit. Pick something you feel confident in, and build everyone else’s outfits around it.
- Choose a color palette, not matching outfits. Think 3-4 coordinating colors instead of everyone wearing the exact same thing.
- Avoid logos & neon colors. These can be distracting and take attention away from your faces!
Q: How do I prepare my kids for the session?
Parents always worry about their kids not cooperating—but I promise, we’ll make it awesome!
The key is to set the tone before the session even starts. Talk to them ahead of time and let them know it’s going to be fun, not a stiff "stand-still-and-smile" kind of thing. If they think of it as an adventure instead of a chore, they’ll be much more relaxed.
Make sure they’ve had a snack beforehand—nothing derails a happy mood faster than being hungry.
If they need a little extra motivation, bringing a small reward for after the session can be a game-changer.
And don’t stress if they want to run, jump, or explore. Some of the best photos happen when kids are just being themselves!
One of my favorite kid moments happened during a recent family session under the mossy oaks. We were just getting started, and the youngest — a spunky 3-year-old — wasn’t having it. Arms crossed. Pout in full force. You know the look.
I gently asked if he wanted to show me how high he could jump, and suddenly — we had lift off. That turned into spinning with mom, “flying” with dad, and before long, we had the biggest belly laughs and the sweetest unposed moments.
At the reveal session, his mom teared up seeing one of those in-between shots — not the posed one, but one where he was mid-laugh, holding onto her hand, completely himself.
It’s a good reminder that the real magic often happens in the playful, unscripted moments. And I’m always here for that kind of joy.
Q: When will I get my photos?
Edited galleries are typically delivered within 2 weeks of your session. From there, you’ll be able to select your favorite images (based on your package) — with the option to add more or even upgrade to the full gallery. Once you’ve made your selections, just let me know via email, and I’ll send you the final downloads.
If you’d like to take advantage of a complimentary reveal appointment, we can schedule that right after your edited gallery is ready. During this time, we’ll sit down together to design custom artwork like framed wall pieces or heirloom albums. As a thank-you for booking with me, you’ll also receive 20% off all heirloom products.
For Heirloom Sessions specifically: your gallery will be delivered unedited first, so you can choose your favorites before I hand-edit them.
Turnaround times for heirloom artwork/products:
- Albums: up to 4 weeks
- Frames: up to 3 weeks
(Please note holiday season may add additional time depending on print lab workload.)
Q: How much does family photography cost?
Family photography is truly an investment in your memories — these images will be treasured for years to come. Pricing varies based on the photographer’s experience, session type, and what’s included, but most professional family sessions typically range between $300–$1,500.
Here’s how my sessions work:
- A $150 deposit is required for Petite and Standard sessions.
- A $250 deposit is required for Extended sessions.
The remaining balance is due the day of your session.
For most families, I recommend the Standard Session, unless you’re planning a traveling session or including extended family members, in which case the Extended Session is the best fit.
You can preview all the details about my portrait collections here.
Q: What should I look for when hiring a family photographer? There are so many to choose from!
Not all photographers are the same, and family sessions require a special skill set!
When searching for a photographer, consider these key factors:
- Style: Do you prefer bright & airy, warm & earthy, or true-to-life colors? Look through portfolios to find a style you love.
- Experience with Kids: If you have little ones, choose a photographer who knows how to make sessions fun and natural (not stiff and awkward).
- Location Options: Do they shoot outdoors, in-home, or in a studio? Pick what works best for your family’s vibe.
- Personality: If your photographer can make you feel comfortable, it will show in your photos. Find someone who feels like a good fit!
At Denver Jernigan Photography, it’s more than just showing up and snapping a few photos. I believe in slowing down and being intentional — from the very first inquiry call to the moment you receive your final gallery.
I always come prepared with a few gentle, fun prompts that keep little ones smiling and moving. Whether it’s asking them to twirl, whisper a silly secret to mom, or “race me to that tree and back,” my goal is to keep it playful and relaxed.
Plus — pro tip — I always have a few tiny, soft toys (and snacks if needed!) on hand to keep their attention just long enough for that perfect shot. And when all else fails… letting them take the lead often results in the most genuine, personality-filled moments.
It’s personal. It’s meaningful. It’s photography with purpose — not just pictures on a screen.
Ready to Create Timeless Portraits of Your Own?
Let’s chat! Click here to inquire and schedule a complimentary consultation to start planning your custom photography experience.
Want to Keep Reading?
Be sure to check out our other blog posts for helpful tips, beautiful stories, and photography inspiration for every season of life.
If you’re still looking for a Portrait & Wedding Photographer, click here to see my portfolio.
