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What to Expect: Family Portrait Session

Jul 19 2026 | By: Lea Rhea Photography

If you've been considering a family photography session but aren't sure where to begin, you're in the right place. In this article, we'll walk you through what to expect, what questions to ask, and how to make the process feel simple and stress-free.

 

How do I choose the right family photographer for me and my family?

Before you begin your search, here are a few things to keep in mind:

1) Look for a professional photographer whose style you truly love.

Do you prefer a contemporary look or something more traditional? Do you like light and airy images, formal portraits, dramatic lighting, or a bold and edgy style?

2) Know the difference between a true professional photographer and someone who enjoys photography as a hobby.

The old saying, "you get what you pay for," can be very true in this case. A true professional photographer will have training, know how to direct and pose you, understand how to use lighting effectively, guide you from start to finish, and deliver consistent results.

3) Understand the value of printed portraits - not just digital files. Find a photographer who uses professional printing services so your finished portraits will stand the test of time and the colors will stay true.

Many people think they only want digital files because they want to view them on a phone or computer, or perhaps print a few images themselves. What they may not realize is how easily those digital files can be lost. Hard drives fail, phone files disappear, technology changes, and images can become impossible to find.

When you think about it, you are trusting someone to capture a moment in time and preserve a memory for you and your family to return to again and again. You are commissioning a portrait that will live in your home and become a keepsake for your children to enjoy long after the session is over.

 

How do you find the right Photographer? 

1)  When you see a portrait hanging in a friend's home, ask them about their photographer. 

2)  When you do a search online:

  • Do include additional information that is important to you so your search can be narrowed. 
  • Don't just search for "a photographer near me" - you may be fortunate to have a good professional photographer near you, but you may also get a list of people who don't have the credentials that you realize are really important.
  • Driving a bit farther for quality is always worth it. 

3)  Once you have a few names, do some additional research:

  • Check out their website (not just their Google Business Page) and while that is a good introduction, they should have a lot more information on their official website. 
  • Look at their images, look at their style, read their reviews and testimonials. 
  • Read their About page - do they sound like someone you'd like to meet? 

4)  Don't let price be your only deciding factor: 

  • Yes, we all have a budget (or should) but it is usually a range.
  • What if it is worth it to get the higher priced option? 
  • What if it is worth saving for?  
  • Do you ever make the choice between a less expensive item and one that is more costly, and when you go with the cheaper option, you ultimately figure out after having to replace that item a time or two that you'd have been better off just going with the better product to begin with? 
  • Portrait Photography is an investment - your family deserves more than a pic on your phone! 

A stress-free, guided professional photography experience with Lea Rhea Photography includes:

1) An introductory phone call - where you share a little about your family, discuss what you hope to achieve, and get an overview of the process, investment, and session options.

2) The next step is usually an in-person consultation or Zoom call. This is an important part of the process because it allows you to see finished work, talk through your vision, choose how you would like your portraits displayed in your home, review detailed pricing, and finalize clothing, location, date, and time.

3) Your session - with the planning already in place and a clear understanding of what to expect, you can arrive relaxed and enjoy the experience with your family while creating meaningful portraits that reflect your connection.

4) Your selection and ordering appointment. Because your photographer has already helped you identify how you want your portraits displayed, your images will be curated for easy viewing and selection, and you will already have the information you need to make decisions confidently.

5) Enjoy your finished portraits. A professional photographer will provide you with beautiful finished artwork, whether that is wall art, a folio box of matted prints, or a custom album designed to be cherished in your home for years to come.  And some will include the digital files for any finished images you purchased. 

 

Ready to know more?  Click the button below to schedule a complimentary call with Lea Rhea Photography.  

Click to schedule a complimentary consultation or just call 214-697-5898.
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Schedule Complimentary 15 Min Phone Consultation
214-697-5898