When I decided to become a family photographer, I knew I wanted to capture natural, fun, unscripted moments between parents and their children. As a parent myself, I know how bittersweet parenting can be: it’s so hard, and then your kiddo turns around and says or does something that breaks your heart wide open. I also know how very fast it moves and that our babies are middle schoolers and teens are college students in the blink of an eye.
But how to capture the magic and essence of family interaction within just an hour shoot?
Most people find it challenging to immediately relax and be themselves in front of a camera. In order to put people at ease and help them focus on each other instead of the camera, I offer gentle posing guidance and suggestions for activities (for example, dancing or spinning around together) that bring out natural joy and laughter. These activities would likely happen on any given day, but my guidance helps capture more of them in a shorter amount of time. I also capture small details, such as such as a parent holding a child’s hand, that say so much about the love and connection they share.
These photo sessions are held in a location that has meaning for your family. This can be at home or at a favorite outdoor location.
$600
+ tax
Includes:
Personal pre-session consult by phone
Family portrait photography session at one of Seattle's beautiful outdoor locations, usually lasting about an hour
All high-resolution images (at least 60 in both color and B&W) available to download and share from your private online gallery
Immediate family - custom quotes available for extended or multiple families
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After the shoot
Before the shoot
Day of the shoot
I’ll get to work reviewing your photos and creating a private online gallery for you to enjoy. Your gallery will be available within 4 weeks and will include all of the best photos professionally edited in both color and black and white. High resolution digital files can be downloaded for personal use and additional keepsakes can be ordered as well.
Let's talk! We'll schedule a call to discuss your photographic needs and answer any questions you have. We'll also work together to find the right location for your shoot.
Prepare to have fun! Full bellies and a good night of sleep always help, but we’ll go with the flow and make the most of our time together whatever happens. There is no need to bring props, though if you have an activity your family enjoys (for example, bubbles or sand toys) please bring that along!
Kind Words
Amy Keljo exceeded our expectations. We are so glad to have chosen her for our family photos.
Our family doesn't take family photos often and aren't the greatest at presenting naturally for photos. Yet, somehow, Amy pulled the best out from each of us. The pictures are beautiful and we love her use of light and nature. Far beyond your standard portrait style photos, Amy's work is the best. You won't be disappointed.
Easy to work with, professional yet friendly, we found Amy to be a highly qualified and personable photographer. Loved her and our photos.
-Dalene K.
FAQ
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What if it rains?
Where should we hold our session?
Living where we do, we get a little rain every now and then. If it's a light drizzle and you're game, I can work with it (it might even be fun to include umbrellas in the shoot!). If it's pouring we'll need to reschedule. I'll be in touch 24 hours prior to the shoot if the weather looks iffy.
For portrait sessions, I recommend shooting outdoors during the "golden hour" (one hour before sunset), as it provides the prettiest light. However, beautiful photos can be taken any time of day, and finding a time that works with the natural flow of your family is a priority. We can meet at one of your favorite outdoor locations or choose from a list of my favorites.
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What happens after the shoot?
What should I wear?
Within four weeks after our session, I will send you a link to your private photo gallery. Photos will be available in both color and black and white. You can download high resolution digital files of all presented photos for personal use and can purchase high quality professional prints and photo products from my online store.
Whatever makes you most comfortable. Really.
If you'd like more thoughts on this subject, click here.
Your Family Photographer For All Occasions
Fall Family Photo Shoots: Capturing Beautiful Autumn Moments
I love the fall, and I especially love helping beautiful families capture moments in time while the leaves change their colors in the background. The Japanese Gardens and Arboretum create a spectacular backdrop for a family portrait session in Seattle, as do Discovery Park, the Bellevue Botanical Garden, Saint Edward State Park, and other local venues. Most of my sessions are documentary in nature; I would love to chat with you about documenting your family outing to the pumpkin patch at Carpinito Brothers, a cookie-baking session, or visit to an orchard. For more insight regarding my family portrait sessions, please get in touch.
Family Photos at Christmas and the Holidays
Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah and New Years are busy times for family photographers! We can don our ugly sweaters together and make memories that will last a lifetime. If you think friends or relatives would enjoy a family portrait session, feel free to ask me about booking a session as a gift for someone else. We can meet in Downtown Seattle to take photos amongst the lights, or I am happy to visit your home.
One of the best ways we can work together would be a documentary-style shoot of your favorite holiday traditions. I can capture a family holiday get-together, making holiday cookies, or something else of that nature – whatever will allow you to enjoy the memory for a lifetime.
Family Photos in Seattle on the Beach
My summertime family photography often takes me to the vicinity of the Alki Beach Lighthouse, Golden Gardens Park, North Beach, Matthews Beach, and others. These sessions turn out beautifully when done during the “golden hour” towards the end of the day, as we can take full advantage of the stunning Pacific Northwest sunset.
Maternity and Newborn Sessions
The maternity and newborn days are special, and they pass all too quickly. Give me a call to book family maternity or infant photography sessions – we can take static photos and turn the session into a memorable documentary shoot filled with candids that you will love.
Outdoor Family Photoshoots + Candid in-Home Sessions
I’m at my best when I can take candid photos of you “just being a family.” Feel free to leave the toys out and about, the laundry unfolded, and the dog running around – these so-called imperfections lend a raw quality to your photos that you will love for years to come.
Some families like to book sessions while they play around in the yard, ride bikes, or enjoy other outdoor activities. If you’d like to capture a full day, day-in-the-life family documentary, sessions are available to capture your daily life, both in and out of the home.
From more formal portraits in a set location to documentary sessions, get in touch to learn more about my family photography.
Some Frequently Asked Questions
Are Professional Family Photo Shoots Worth It?
Yes, investing in a professional family portrait or documentary session is worth it! A skilled professional is able to tell a story through a photo session, capture emotions and candid moments, and bring out the best in each character. You could set a timer on your iPhone or ask an uncle to snap a photo, but it will never compare to hiring a professional photographer.
A professional understands lighting, angles, background scenery, and most importantly, editing – the editing stage is truly half the battle. All told, in an era where everyone has an amazing camera in their phone, you are right to question the validity of professional photography. So if you would like more information about what a family portrait photographer can do for you, send me a note!
How Long Do Photography Sessions Take?
Sessions can be wrapped up in as little as an hour, or in the case of my documentary shoots, they can last for several hours or an entire day. I am happy to book a session that fits within your busy schedule. Things like multiple locations, changes of clothes, changes of scenery, and more will influence the length of the session.
Do You Suggest Props, Locations, and Times?
I can be as involved as you would like me to be! I’ve done dozens of sessions for happy families, and I would be happy to share my experience with you. I can clue you in on the kinds of activities and environments that often bring out the best in kids, tips for helping shy or rambunctious little ones during the session, and locations that capture lighting in a perfect way depending on the time of year.
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Documenting what matters most
Documentary family photography in Seattle and anywhere planes fly.
