Everything you need to know before, during and after your session.

Client Guide

Booking

The best way to start is by filling out the inquiry form.
Tell me about what you're celebrating, who will be joining, and any details that are important to you.
I'll respond within 24-48 hours with availability
and session information.

Retainer is required to reserve your date.
Retainers are non-refundable
Payment plan are available
Final payment is due 3 days before your session.
A retainer is usually 50% of the total

Good to know

Manresa Beach, Watsonville                   $48
Natural Bridges, Santa Cruz                   $76
Carmel Beach, Carmel-by-the-Sea          $90
Fioli Gardens, Woodside        $144+ entry fee

Gilroy and Morgan Hill locations are included in your session fee. For locations outside of this area, a travel fee will apply. Travel fees help cover my time, gas, hotels, flights, entry fees and any required permits. 

For any locations not listed above, the fee is $2 per mile to the location from Gilroy

Popular Locations & Travel fees

Vasona Lake, Los Gatos                          $48
Rose Garden, San Jose                            $70
Mudstone Ranch, Hollister                    $52
San Juan Bautista Mission                      $26
Arizona Cactus Garden, Stanford        $102

Location & Travel

Gilroy and Morgan Hill locations are included in your session fee. For locations outside of this area, a travel fee will apply. Travel fees help cover my time, gas, hotels, flights, entry fees and any required permits. 

For any locations not listed above, the fee is $2 per mile to the location from Gilroy

Popular Locations & Travel fees

Vasona Lake, Los Gatos                    $48
Rose Garden, San Jose                      $70
Mudstone Ranch, Hollister              $52
San Juan Bautista Mission                $26
Arizona Cactus Garden, Stanford   $102
Manresa Beach, Watsonville             $48
Natural Bridges, Santa Cruz             $76
Carmel Beach, Carmel-by-the-Sea   $90
Fioli Gardens, Woodside       $144+ entry fee

Location & Travel

Styling your family

You don't need to have everyone's outfits figured out before you book. I style families around the location, season, and colors that photograph beautifully together. Once your session is booked, we'll talk through outfits, colors, and styling so everyone feels comfortable and your family looks coordinated without being overly matched.

Kids Will Be Kids

Your children are never expected to sit still, smile on command, or be perfectly behaved for their session. I expect wiggles, silliness, snack breaks, big feelings, and sometimes a meltdown or two. We'll follow their lead, take breaks whenever they're needed, and give them the space to play and be themselves.

Gallery & Editing

After your session, your photographs are carefully selected and individually edited before being delivered in a private online gallery. Most galleries are ready within approximately three weeks. You'll receive high resolution digital files with a print release, and I'll provide everything you need to download, save, share, and print your photographs.

Choosing a Location

You don't need to choose the perfect location on your own. We'll talk about the look you love, the season, your children's ages, accessibility, and how far you'd like to travel. From beaches and redwoods to gardens, vineyards, and golden fields, I'll help you choose a setting that works well for both your family and your photographs.

Travel Information

I'm based in Gilroy and regularly photograph families throughout the South Bay, Bay Area, and Central Coast. Some locations are included with your session, while farther destinations may have a travel fee. Any known travel, parking, entrance, or permit costs will be discussed while we're planning so you know what to expect before your session.

Preparing for your session

Gallery & Editing

Travel Information

Choosing a Location

Styling your family

Kids Will Be Kids

I'm based in Gilroy and regularly photograph families throughout the South Bay, Bay Area, and Central Coast. Some locations are included with your session, while farther destinations may have a travel fee. Any known travel, parking, entrance, or permit costs will be discussed while we're planning so you know what to expect before your session.

After your session, your photographs are carefully selected and individually edited before being delivered in a private online gallery. Most galleries are ready within approximately three weeks. You'll receive high resolution digital files with a print release, and I'll provide everything you need to download, save, share, and print your photographs.

You don't need to choose the perfect location on your own. We'll talk about the look you love, the season, your children's ages, accessibility, and how far you'd like to travel. From beaches and redwoods to gardens, vineyards, and golden fields, I'll help you choose a setting that works well for both your family and your photographs.

You don't need to have everyone's outfits figured out before you book. I style families around the location, season, and colors that photograph beautifully together. Once your session is booked, we'll talk through outfits, colors, and styling so everyone feels comfortable and your family looks coordinated without being overly matched.

Your children are never expected to sit still, smile on command, or be perfectly behaved for their session. I expect wiggles, silliness, snack breaks, big feelings, and sometimes a meltdown or two. We'll follow their lead, take breaks whenever they're needed, and give them the space to play and be themselves.

Preparing for your session

Frequently asked questions

The earlier, the better! I recommend booking 2–6 months in advance, especially for weekend evenings and holiday sessions. Last minute availability does occasionally open up, so don't hesitate to ask.

How far in advance should I book?

After booking, I'll help you coordinate outfits that complement your location and the season. You'll receive styling guidance, color suggestions, and recommendations to help your family look timeless and cohesive.

What should we wear?

That's completely okay! I'll help you choose a location based on the season, lighting, and the overall feel you're hoping to capture. I also have a location guide I can send over!

What if I have no idea where to take photos?

Absolutely! I offer sessions specifically designed for extended families. Just let me know how many people will be joining so I can recommend the best session length.

Can grandparents or extended family join?

Children don't need to smile perfectly or sit still. I encourage play, exploration, and genuine interaction. Snack breaks, cuddles, and wiggles are all part of the experience.

What if my child doesn't cooperate?

I always recommend bringing:
  • Water or juice
  • Easy, mess free snacks
  • A favorite comfort item
  • Diapers and wipes if needed
  • Any medications your child may need

What should I bring for my children?

They're not alone! Most dads tell me afterward that the session was much easier and more enjoyable than they expected. My goal is to keep everyone moving, laughing, and interacting naturally rather than standing in stiff poses.

WHAT IF MY SPOUSE DOESN'T LIKE TAKING PHOTOS?

I'll monitor the forecast leading up to your session. If weather creates unsafe or poor shooting conditions, we'll reschedule together.

What if the weather is bad?

Please let me know as soon as possible. If your child wakes up sick or isn't feeling well, we'll happily reschedule your session at no additional cost.

What if my child/family is sick?

Most galleries are delivered within approximately three weeks.

WHEN WILL I RECEIVE MY GALLERY?

Yes! Every digital image includes a print release. You'll also have access to a professional print lab directly through your gallery for the highest quality prints and products.

CAN I PRINT MY PHOTOS ANYWHERE?

Your gallery will remain available for download for several months, but I always recommend downloading and backing up your images as soon as you receive them.

HOW LONG WILL MY GALLERY STAY ONLINE?

Retainers (deposits) are non refundable and reserve your session date on my calendar.

IS MY RETAINER REFUNDABLE?

Absolutely. Life happens! If you're sick or an emergency comes up, we'll work together to find a new date.

CAN I RESCHEDULE?

Yes! Flexible payment plans are available before your session. Just let me know if you'd like to set one up. This is why booking earlier is best.

DO YOU OFFER PAYMENT PLANS?

Very! Whether we're splashing in the ocean, throwing leaves, eating cake, or exploring a trail, I encourage kids to play and have fun. Those authentic moments often become everyone's favorite photographs.

HOW MESSY CAN MY KIDS GET?

Yes! Many of my outdoor locations are pet friendly. Just let me know ahead of time so I can recommend the best location and help plan for your furry family member. I do recommend bringing a second adult or friend who can take your pup for a walk when they're finished being photographed.

CAN WE BRING OUR DOG?

Not at all. Some of my favorite images are the quiet cuddles, belly laughs, curious looks, and little moments between your family. Those are the photographs that tell your story.

DO I NEED MY CHILDREN TO SMILE AT THE CAMERA?

What if my child is autistic, has ADHD, sensory sensitivities, or needs a little extra patience?

Your child is welcome exactly as they are. I never expect children to sit still, smile on command, or behave a certain way for photos.

If your child is autistic, has ADHD, is nonverbal, experiences sensory sensitivities or anxiety, or simply needs a little extra time, please let me know before your session. This helps me adjust my approach, move at their pace, and take breaks whenever they're needed.

Favorite toys, snacks, or comfort items are always welcome. My goal is never perfect behavior. It's creating a comfortable experience where your child can simply be themselves.

 Tell me a little about your family and I'll send availability, pricing, and everything you need to know.

Ready to reserve your session?

 Every family is different, and sometimes you just want to ask before booking. I'm always happy to help.

Still have questions?

FILL OUT THE INQUIRY FORM AND Tell me a little about your family and I'll send availability, pricing, and everything you need to know.

Ready to reserve your session?

 Every family is different, and sometimes you just want to ask before booking. I'm always happy to help.

Still have questions?