Family Portraits
Every family is unique — and your photos should reflect that. Whether we’re capturing the laughter at your kitchen table, a sun‑drenched moment in the park, or a timeless studio portrait, my goal is always the same: to freeze a moment in your family’s story.
Every session unfolds a little differently — and that’s part of the magic. Some families love playful prompts and movement, while others prefer a calm, cozy pace. I’ll guide you in a way that feels natural for your crew, blending classic portraits with those spontaneous, in‑between moments that often become the favorites. With young children especially, I follow their lead so the experience stays relaxed and enjoyable for everyone.
Let’s capture what this season means to you. Below you’ll find four session options designed to fit a variety of families, schedules, and styles.
Mini Family Studio Session - $195
A short and sweet session, ideal for busy families who want updated portraits with minimal time commitment.
15 professionally retouched portraits
Color and black & white versions
15-minute session at the VIVID Photography Studio (Cold Spring)
Immediate family members only
Beautiful downloadable online gallery
Includes complimentary 11x14 professional print ($25 value)
Optional: Add an outdoor mini session with 10 additional images for $50
Traditional Family Photo Session - $375
A classic and versatile session with a balance of posed and candid moments—perfect for your annual family portraits.
Minimum of 40 retouched portraits
Color and black & white versions
30–60 minutes of photography
One outdoor location or at the VIVID Photography Studio
Includes immediate family: group, couple, siblings, individuals
Includes light lifestyle images after core portraits
Includes complimentary $50 print credit
Downloadable online gallery
Studio backup available in case of bad weather if rescheduling isn’t an option.
Extended Family Photo Session – $475
Ideal for multi-generational portraits, reunions, or anniversaries. We’ll photograph the whole group and every family unit within it.
Minimum of 50 retouched portraits
Color and black & white versions
One outdoor location or VIVID Studio in Cold Spring
Includes full group, grandparents, grandparents with grandchildren, cousins, sibling sets, individual family units, and individuals as needed.
Includes a mix of posed and light lifestyle shots if desired
Includes complimentary $50 print credit
Downloadable online gallery
Great for celebrating legacy and connection
Signature Storytelling Session – $575
A custom, documentary-style experience that captures your family in the most natural, candid way. Perfect for families who value real moments over posed portraits. This session is all about connection. Just be yourselves—I’ll take care of the rest.
Minimum of 60 retouched portraits, color + B&W
1–2 hours of photography
On-location at your home or a favorite Central MN spot
Fully candid, journalistic-style imagery
Ideal for capturing moments like baking, walks, games, or quiet snuggles
Includes complimentary $100 print credit
Downloadable online gallery
Includes traditional family portraits if desired
The Fine Print
Your fully edited online gallery will be delivered approximately 3-4 weeks after your session. (During busy seasons, please allow up to 5 weeks.)
All digital files are included at no extra cost, with full print release.
Session fee is due at the time of your shoot.
Travel within Central Minnesota is included.
Studio backup is always an option for weather-dependent sessions.
Referral Program: For every 10 referred sessions that are booked and paid, you’ll receive one free session! (Excludes Weddings & Signature Senior Sessions)
What to Expect
Family sessions with VIVID are relaxed, fun, and centered around connection. I’ll guide you through a mix of gently posed portraits and natural, candid moments so you never feel stiff or unsure of what to do. Kids are encouraged to be themselves — playful, shy, wiggly, curious — it’s all welcome. I work at your family’s pace, taking breaks when needed and keeping the atmosphere light and easy.
Sessions typically last 20–60 minutes depending on the package you choose. I’ll help with posing, prompts, and direction throughout, while also giving you space to interact naturally. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, we’ll reschedule or move to the studio, whichever works best for your family.
What to Wear
Choose outfits that feel comfortable, coordinated, and true to your family’s style. Soft, neutral tones photograph beautifully and help keep the focus on your faces and connection. Think creams, tans, muted greens, soft blues, warm earth tones, or soft pastels. If your family prefers richer color, deep jewel tones like navy, emerald, burgundy, or mustard also look stunning outdoors.
You don’t need to match — aim for colors that complement each other. Layers, textures, and simple accessories add depth without feeling overdone. Flowy dresses, cozy sweaters, denim, linen, and subtle patterns (like small florals or thin stripes) all photograph well. If you love a more polished look, choose outfits within the same color family. If your style is relaxed, mix casual pieces with a few elevated touches.
For seasonal inspiration:
Spring: pastels, denim, light layers
Summer: soft neutrals, linen, flowy fabrics
Fall: warm earth tones, sweaters, boots
Winter: jewel tones, cozy textures, scarves
A few things to avoid: neon colors, large logos, busy patterns, and baseball caps (they shadow faces). And feel free to bring a backup outfit for little ones — spills and surprises happen.
If you’d like help choosing outfits, you’re always welcome to send me photos of your options. I’m happy to offer suggestions that fit your family’s style and your session location.