WHAT TO EXPECT DURING YOUR FAMILY SESSION
From the moment we start, my goal is to create a relaxed and fun environment where your family can be yourselves. With my background as an elementary teacher and yoga instructor, I bring patience, a calm presence, and an ability to engage kids of all ages. Whether your little ones are full of energy or a bit shy in front of the camera, I’ll guide them through playful prompts and natural interactions to capture their authentic smiles and expressions.
Expect a mix of posed and candid moments—beautiful family portraits alongside spontaneous, joy-filled interactions. I encourage movement, whether it’s walking along the shoreline, laughing in a field, or holding hands under the trees. My sessions are designed to feel like an adventure, allowing you to relax and simply enjoy time with your loved ones.
Within two to three weeks, you’ll receive a carefully curated gallery of hand-edited images that tell the story of your family’s unique connection. If you need your photos sooner, rush delivery is available. Let’s create something meaningful together—photos that don’t just capture how you look but how this season of life feels.
“We were so comfortable and relaxed I knew we’d get some great shots but I had no idea how great. When Josh sent our photos I started crying they were so beautiful.” ~Temple
Family Photography Packages
The Family Adventure | $900
Perfect for single families (up to 8 people) looking to explore the dunes, beaches, or downtown.
- The Experience: A high-energy, 60-minute storytelling session at your choice of Northern Michigan’s best locations.
- The Curation: A hand-selected gallery of 75 high-resolution, professionally edited images that tell your family’s unique story.
- The Perks: Personalized location scouting, rain-date flexibility, and full personal printing rights.
- Timing: Online gallery delivered within 2-3 weeks.
Schedule your Family Adventure.
The Family Gathering | $1200
Designed for extended families and reunions (8–20 people).
- The Experience: A focused 60-minute session designed to capture the “big group” legacy shots plus individual family units.
- The Curation: All the benefits of the Adventure session, including 100 high-resolution, hand-edited images curated for the whole group.
- The Perks: Coordination assistance to ensure we hit every important combination efficiently.
- Timing: Online gallery delivered within 2-3 weeks.
Schedule your Family Gathering Session.
Customize Your Experience
- Extended Coverage | $300 Need a little more time? Add an extra 30 minutes to your session (90 minutes total) for additional locations or larger group combinations.
- The Full Collection Upgrade | $250 If you find you can’t live without the extra moments, you can unlock an additional 75 images—doubling your gallery to 150 total high-resolution files. This ensures you have every single “keeper” and storytelling angle from our hour together.
- 48-Hour Rush Delivery | $200 In a hurry to see your memories? Move to the front of the editing queue with a guaranteed 48-hour gallery turnaround.
Scroll down for more Frequently Asked Questions, Traverse City locations for your family session, and planning tips.
Not sure where you want to take your photos?
Check out my list of the [Top Family-Friendly Beaches in Northern Michigan for Your Next Photo Adventure] to find the perfect backdrop for your family.
Traverse City Family Photographer | Frequently Asked Questions
Wondering what to expect for your Traverse City family photo adventure? Check out my most frequently asked questions to help you prepare for an unforgettable experience capturing your family’s story in Northern Michigan! 🌲
1) What is an adventure session? How is it different from a traditional session?
Kick off your shoes and embrace the fun! My family adventure sessions focus on play, exploration, and authentic interactions. As your Traverse City family photographer, I specialize in capturing real, candid moments amidst the stunning landscapes of Northern Michigan. Think less posing, more laughter, and a relaxed, memorable experience for the whole family.
Having a large family get-together? Check out [How to Plan the Perfect Family Gathering Photo Session].
2) Do I get to choose my 75 images?
To provide the best experience, I hand-select the top 75 images that tell the most complete and beautiful story of your session. This saves you the stress of culling through hundreds of photos and ensures you receive a gallery that is polished and ready to print.
3) Where do you like to photograph families?
Some of my favorite locations for family photo sessions include Empire Beach, Sleeping Bear Dunes in Glen Arbor, Old Mission Peninsula, Hickory Meadows right in Traverse City, and Brown Bridge Quiet Area. Consider places that hold significance or offer scenic beauty. I provide a curated list of [My Favorite Scenic Family Photo Spots in Northern Michigan] to assist in your decision.
Many families choose to have their session right at home, making it even more personal. Want to see how this looks? Check out [Capturing Family Bliss: A Tale of Two At-Home Sessions].
Scenic Locations in Northern Michigan: Northern Michigan boasts numerous picturesque spots ideal for family photos.
- Sleeping Bear Dunes (Glen Haven): Towering dunes with Lake Michigan vistas.
- Empire Family Photo Shoots for Adventurous Hearts: Offers stunning overlooks and family accessible beaches.
- Clinch Park & Downtown Traverse City: Combines urban charm with bay views.
- Old Mission Peninsula: Vineyards, orchards, and scenic drives.
4) Will we be required to hike?
Most of my family adventures are flexible and customizable. We can take easy strolls, short hikes, or stay close to parking depending on your family’s comfort level. Let me know if you have little ones, grandparents, or furry friends to accommodate!
5) Do I need to bring anything to my session?
All you need is yourself, your family, and a sense of adventure! I recommend layers for Northern Michigan’s ever-changing weather, water, and snacks for the kids. You can leave your phone behind—I’ll take care of the photos!
6) What time of day do you like to photograph families?
Golden hour—right after sunrise or before sunset—creates soft, dreamy light. But as a seasoned Traverse City family photographer, I know how to work with all kinds of light conditions. Let’s chat and find the best timing based on your schedule and location!
7) Can we bring our dog?
Absolutely! Dogs are family too. I love including them in sessions and know several dog-friendly spots around Traverse City. Just let me know in advance so we can plan accordingly—bring treats and water for your furry friend!
8) What happens if it rains?
We can embrace the weather for creative shots or find cover. For heavy rain, we can reschedule. Either way, your Traverse City family photo experience will be stress-free and fun.
9) If we’re running late, will you stay longer?
Life happens! I leave buffer time between sessions and always aim to be flexible. Just communicate if something comes up, and we’ll adjust as needed.
10) How can parents prepare kids for a successful session?
Ensure your kids are rested, fed, and ready to play! Show them a few photos from my past family sessions to get them excited. During the session, I’ll handle the magic—no need to stress. I’ll capture genuine smiles and joyful moments.
11) What makes your family sessions unique?
Northern Michigan offers breathtaking scenery, from lakeshores to forests to charming small towns. If you are looking for an iconic, high-energy backdrop, take a look at these [Family Dune Adventures: Capturing Memories in Northern Michigan’s Stunning Landscapes].
12) How long is a family photo session?
Both my Family Adventure and Family Gathering sessions are 60 minutes long. This provides plenty of time for kids to warm up, explore the area, and for us to capture a beautiful, relaxed variety of moments. If you feel your family might need a little extra time or you want to capture more extended family combinations, a 30-minute extended coverage add-on is available!
13) What can I do with my images? Do you offer prints?
You will receive a curated online gallery of 75 hand-edited, high-resolution images with full printing and sharing rights. Full collection upgrades are also available! I also offer professional print options—paper prints, canvases, and more—to help you turn those family memories into cherished keepsakes.
14) What should we wear for our session?
Opt for comfortable attire that reflects your family’s style. Coordinated colors without exact matching work well. For detailed guidance, refer to my What to Wear for Your Family Adventure blog post.
15) Ready to Book Your Traverse City Family Adventure?
Whether we’re exploring the trails at Hickory Meadows or capturing laughs at Sleeping Bear Dunes, let’s create lasting memories together. Secure your date by reserving your session with a signed proposal and my family adventure fee. I’m available May through October throughout Northern Michigan.
Contact me today to plan your next family adventure!
