As a Wisconsin family photographer, I often receive questions from clients about family photography sessions. To answer those common questions and help you feel confident about booking your family session, I've compiled a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) along with their answers:

1. What should we wear for our family photo session? Choosing outfits for your family session can seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be. I recommend coordinating colors and styles rather than matching outfits exactly. Opt for complementary colors and avoid busy patterns that may distract from the focus of the photo – your family! All of my clients receive my expertise and guidance. I create custom collages based on your style to help you see the vision and options. You’ll receive my style guide and access to my client closet. My client closet is hundreds of items ranging in sizes xs-4x and available for you to use at your session.

2. How long will the session last? I don’t put a hard time line on sessions. I never want you distracted by time, worrying we won’t get the shots you were hoping for. Though typically, a family photo session lasts between 45 to 90 minutes. This allows enough time for different groupings, poses, and locations while ensuring everyone stays engaged and relaxed throughout the session.

3. Can we bring our pets to the photo session? Absolutely! Pets are part of the family too, and I encourage you to include them in your session. Just be sure to bring along their favorite toys or treats to keep them happy and cooperative during the shoot. Make sure we chat and make plans for your pet.

4. What if my child is shy or uncooperative during the session? It's completely normal for children to feel shy or even wild, especially in unfamiliar environments. As a family photographer, I'm experienced in working with children of all ages and temperaments. I'll use various techniques to help your child feel comfortable and engaged, ensuring we capture genuine smiles and moments. Most of the time the session ends with your child holding my hand asking when we can play again! My sessions are so much fun they don’t even realize we just did photos that are important to mom and dad.

5. Can we request specific locations for our session? Absolutely! Your family photo session should reflect your unique style and personality. Prior to your session, we'll discuss your preferences and ideas, and I'll do my best to accommodate any special requests you may have. I love incorporating places that are important to you are and your family. I even travel so we can include your family land or a summer cabin.

6. What happens if the weather is bad on the day of our scheduled session? If the weather forecast doesn't cooperate on the day of your session, don't worry! We can either reschedule for another date or explore indoor locations that offer beautiful natural light and scenery. Many times my clients love in home sessions. See my blog post where I talk more about why in home sessions are amazing.

7. How soon will we receive our edited photos after the session? I understand how eager you'll be to see your family photos, which is why I deliver your edited images as quickly as possible. We’ll set up your reveal session just 3-4 days after our session. Any digitals you purchase you’ll have that same day, and products like albums or wall art is to you in two weeks or less! No long waits, ever!

8. Do you offer prints and other products? Yes, I offer a variety of print options and products to help you showcase your family photos in your home. From high-quality heirloom albums and canvases to digital galleries and custom mobile apss, I'll help you choose the perfect keepsakes to treasure for years to come.

9. What can I expect during the family session? During the family session, you can expect a relaxed and fun experience. My family sessions are kid focused. If the kids are shy I’ll guide you to snuggle and make them comfortable. If the kids are high energy we will run and play. Most of the time we do a lot of both! I'll guide you through various gentle poses, ensuring everyone looks and feels natural in front of the camera. Then I’ll get you to laugh and play to capture authentic moments and genuine smiles that you'll cherish for a lifetime. My clients all say they booked me because they love how natural and relaxed everyone looks.

10. What have clients said about their family session?

“Kelly was AWESOME to work with! She really had a vision + executed that with great communication + professionalism. Our kiddos were a little wild + not in the mood for pics, yet our pictures turned out perfectly. When it came to couple photos, Kelly knew exactly how to pose us, yet make it look + feel so natural. I cannot say enough good things about our experience with Kelly Jacobi Photography + will definitely recommend to our family + friends!” - Katie

“Kelly is an amazing photographer. Her work is amazing and genuinely captures real emotions. My experience was not only captured in her images that I will cherish forever but in the moment she created while capturing them. She creates a comfortable space for you and your loved ones to completely be themselves. She was so sweet with my three year old daughter that she absolutely loved Kelly by the end. To me she is a true artist in her work. I would not only highly recommend her but completely plan on being a repeat client.” - Jenny

“Every session that we have had with Kelly has been memorable not only due to the photos that she brings to life but by the experience that we have with her. As a mom trying to hassle the husband and children together for family photos the scene is always chaos but Kelly truly brings a sense of calm and understanding. She cultivates the session to meet us where we are at and with young children, the emotions are ever changing. We will always recommend her, my favorite sessions and photos have been with her.” - Wasana

“We hired Kelly for an outdoor family shoot. We have 4 young children and Kelly nailed it with both the experience and the end product. She makes taking pictures fun and stress free, which is not an easy task! And in the end, I get pictures that show my kids’ true personalities and real smiles. She makes it hard to chose which pictures to hang on the wall because they are all that good! I highly recommend Kelly for any type of pictures you are looking for!” - Jackie

10. How can I book a family session with you? To book a family session or to inquire regarding questions and availability, you can request a phone call or reach out with a message. I'm excited to create beautiful and meaningful memories with you during this special time in your family’s journey.

Family photos hold a special place in our hearts because they freeze fleeting moments in time, allowing us to revisit cherished memories for years to come. Our photos serve as tangible reminders of the milestones we've shared and become treasured heirlooms that we pass down through generations. In a world that's constantly changing, family photos serve as anchors, reminding us of who we are and where we come from, grounding us in the love and connection that define us.

I hope these FAQs have answered some of your questions about family photography sessions. If you have any additional inquiries or would like to schedule your own session, feel free to reach out to me. I look forward to capturing beautiful memories with your family!

Ready for your own amazing family photo session??