You’re Booked — Let’s Make Some Magic!

In just a few days, we’ll capture your family as they are — with all the love, connection, chaos, and quirks (yes: endless snack requests, spontaneous hugs, and the occasional anti-pants toddler).

Family photos don’t need to feel like a production. In fact, the best sessions feel a lot like just spending time together. This guide is here to help you unlearn what a family session “should” be — and get you ready with less pressure, more presence, and a whole lot of heart.

Let’s keep it simple, fun, and real. Your only job? Be yourselves.

Congratulations — you’ve booked your documentary family photo session!

What to Expect

Your session will feel like an ordinary moment, made meaningful. I’ll meet you at home, your backyard, or a favourite spot where your family feels most at ease.

Sessions run about 2 - 2.5 hours.
We’ll work around naps, snacks, moods — all of it.
I’ll blend in while life unfolds.

If music helps you relax, hit play.

Want a couple of classic family shots on the porch or somewhere special? No problem — we’ll wrap up with a few quick ones.

A black-and-white photo of a living room with two people sitting on a sofa, smiling and engaging in conversation. There is a window with curtains, a bookshelf, framed artworks on the wall, a floor lamp, and a record player.

Unlearning the Photoshoot

Forget everything you think a photoshoot “should” look like. There’s no need to pose, smile on cue, or ask your kids to behave perfectly.

These sessions are about presence, not performance.

The more you lean into the chaos, the calm, and everything in between, the more honest — and beautiful — your photos will feel.
So go ahead: let the kids be wild, wear the comfy clothes, and just be yourselves.

Two young boys laughing and upside down, leaning over a fence outdoors

What clients are saying:

“We hired Andrew to take candid, documentary-style photos of our family enjoying one last Saturday morning in our home before putting it up for sale. From the moment he arrived, Andrew was kind, warm, and professional—he made every one of us feel comfortable and at ease, which is no small feat with a camera-shy crew! He captured our family so naturally and beautifully, reflecting the love, laughter, and chaos that have filled our home for the past 10 years. The photos feel so genuine and full of heart. The turnaround time was incredibly fast, and looking through the gallery together was a truly emotional and joyful experience. We’re so grateful to have found Andrew and plan to work with him again for future milestones. Highly, highly recommend!.”

A woman and a young boy sit on a sofa, looking at a book together. The boy holds a toy train, and they are indoors near a window.

A young boy with light-colored hair and a big smile on his face is sitting on a swing, holding the chains with both hands. The photo is in black and white, and the background shows a wooden fence.

What (Not) to Worry About

The best family sessions aren’t staged — they’re lived.

DO:

Choose activities you already love doing together — making pancakes, board games, slip’n slide, sidewalk chalk, scooter rides, playing PS5, having coffee on the deck, even cuddling on the couch.
Feed everyone beforehand (if a meal isn’t one of the activities). Full bellies = more relaxed vibes.
Give older kids or teens a quick heads-up. Let them know this won’t be stiff or awkward — no posing, no cheese-face smiles. Just a chill hangout with someone taking pictures in the background.
Have the real-life essentials on hand - snacks, water and wipes!

DON’T:

Deep clean the house. Tidy-ish is great. Clutter just tells the truth of family life.
Bribe with treats — bring snacks if you like, but skip the “if you behave” part. No pressure, no performance.
Script the day. The best moments happen when no one’s trying.
Worry about “getting the shot” — that’s what I’m there for.

Think of this less as a photo session, and more as a chance to press pause on real life — and remember it forever.

Two young children, a boy and a girl, playing in water outdoors. The boy is wearing a polka dot sun hat and underwear, with water splashing on his face. The girl has dark hair tied back, and they are engaging in a water play activity.

Three people sitting around a table, smiling and enjoying a conversation in a casual indoor setting.

What to Wear

There’s no dress code. But here’s what works:

Wear what feels good — comfy, layered, and like you. Bare feet are perfect at home.
Avoid logos, neons, or see-through fabrics that might distract.
Pops of red, yellow, or blue look amazing in photos.
Teens can (and should) dress like themselves — it’s part of the story.
Heading outside? Bring a cozy layer or backup outfit for adventures.

Avoid:
Baggy button-downs, fussy or uncomfortable shoes, or anything that needs constant fixing or adjusting.

After the Session

A smiling man with gray hair and a beard lying on the grass with two children, a boy and a girl, both upside down, also smiling

Within 5 business days, you’ll receive your full Pic-time gallery — beautifully edited and ready to enjoy.
Included is a custom slideshow, set to music, that brings the story of your session to life. (Pro tip: watch it together as a family — snacks encouraged.)

From there, you can:

• Download your favourites (or the whole gallery)
• Order prints, wall art, or albums straight from your gallery
• Share the link with grandparents and anyone else who loves your crew
• Loved the session? Book your next family milestone — or just another chapter worth remembering.

• Feel free to tell your friends, and if you’re feeling generous, leave a Google review. My business is built on kind words and referrals from families like yours — and I’m so grateful for every one.