Why should I hire a professional photographer?

Family photos are important for a number of reasons. A professional photographer can help bond your family together with prompts that create a lasting connection. They tell the story of your family for years to come. According to psychologists, having family photos around your house brings positive self-esteem and helps children feel confident in not only themselves but their family.

How do I know what package is right for my family?

Seeing multiple packages can feel overwhelming, while some packages are easy to navigate (smash cake session, fresh 24 hour sessions), family sessions can be a little trickier. How to choose between my 30 min and 60 min session? Here are a few steps. Families with less than 5 members can easily get away with a 30 min session. Smaller groups mean less direction and less set up, so 30 min is usually perfect for that. Also, if you have multiple children under 5 years old then the 30 min session is ideal. Little kids have a shorter attention span and get tired quicker, anything over 30 min can be too exhausting for them. 

On the other hand, 60 min shoots are perfect for families that have over 5 people in them, want to do an extended family session, or want more on an adventure out of their session. I do not recommend an extended family shoot to do anything less than an hour session, even with younger kids. We want a chance to get all generations together, as well as get individual family shots. Younger kids usually do okay with these sessions because they get breaks from being in front of the camera while I give my attention to others.

Can I book in advance?

Yes! You can easily access my calendar and book a session 6 months in advance. This is perfect if you are planning a shoot for a smash cake session, extended family session, or even to make  sure you get a spot during the busiest seasons of the year (Fall and Spring).

How do I help prepare my kids?

Thinking about how your kid(s) going to react to photo day can be stressful. I suggest letting them know about the shoot a few days in advance. Let them help pick out their outfit, tell them we will be playing games and ask them to think about what games THEY want to play. If your family has a book they love to read together let them bring it, that book could be the perfect way to capture your family connection. Furthermore, don’t book your session during nap time or meal time, my schedule always has availability for times that are better for your children, feel free to reach out if you don’t see a time available that you need. For more tips on family sessions check out my blog here

https://www.middlemomentsphotography.com/blog/family-photoshoot-tips/

What about Pets?

Pets are just as much a part of your family as everyone else, right? If you want them in the photoshoot they are welcome! Some locations do not allow pets so please be aware of that when choosing your location. Please also inform me on what animals you will be bringing as well as how many. Be sure to take them on a nice walk/run prior to the shoot to use some of their energy. Remember to bring leashes and anything else you will need to clean up after them.

What to expect at the photoshoot

FUN! But seriously, just come ready to play games, have fun, and laugh with your family. My sessions are very child led, if they aren’t ready to do a candid shot then we will start out playing games.We will focus on lifestyle shots and sneak the candid ones in when they aren’t even expecting it. I go through a list of fun games and allow the kids to give suggestions as well. The two things I always hear after a family shoot with me is “wow that was easy” or “that was fun!” I truly believe that is because I let the kids be heard. Your family gets to be a family and I get to take the perfect photos for that.

How are locations picked

I have a list of my top locations for beautiful family photos right around Bend Oregon and Redmond Oregon. When booking you have the option to pick one of those locations. If there is a special location not listed that you would like to have them done at feel free to write that in the notes and I will site check. If it looks suitable for the shoot then I am more than happy to do them there!

What can I expect after the session

I have a list of my top locations for beautiful family photos. When booking you have the option to pick one of those locations. If there is a special location not listed that you would like to have them done at feel free to write that in the notes and I will site check. If it looks suitable for the shoot then I am more than happy to do them there!

Can I buy extra downloads?

Absolutely! I fill your album with all the best shots taken from your session. After you download the amount of photos your package allows there is an option to buy extras for a small fee. You can buy as many as you want. If you want to bundle them all I offer a bundle price.

Do you offer prints?

On my site I offer everything from small prints, wall art, cards, and albums! I partnered with a high quality lab to get the best prints and products for you. We work together to ensure your photos will last a lifetime.