Today’s post is dedicated to helping you better understand what it’s like to book a family session with Nicole at Saguaro and Spruce Photography. As an Arizona family photographer, I have learned that many of my clients are not super familiar with how the process works, so I hope you find this helpful!

1. Send me an inquiry

The easiest and best way to get in touch with me to book your family session is by clicking here and sending me an inquiry through my website. I often get overwhelmed with messages on Instagram and other social media sites. Submitting an inquiry via my website allows me to stay on top of all of my inquiries.

In your inquiry you will note what kind of session you’d like, what date/time(s) work for you, if there’s a location you’d prefer, and an empty box for any questions. I’ll make sure to address any questions and requests you have within 72 working hours.

2. We will set up a time, location, and you’ll receive an email from me

As I mentioned above, you will hear back from me within 72 working hours. At that point, we will finalize the details: date, time, and location.

Don’t have a preference for your location? That’s totally ok! Unless a client is already 100% set on a certain location I always email my location guide which is packed full of locations across the greater Phoenix area.

3. Submit your deposit to hold your date

Included in the email with the finalized date, time, and location I will include a contract that I require all clients to sign. You will also be required to leave a 30% deposit to hold your date and time. With limited availability, I am unable to hold your spot without a deposit.

4. Your session guide will be emailed to you

I know getting ready for family pictures can be so stressful! That’s why I’ve put together a multi-page document to help my clients know what exactly to expect before, during, and after our session. The guide also includes lots of tips on what to wear. If you ever have any questions about color palettes or coordinating outfits, I’m your girl!

5. The day of your session

The day of your session may be a little stressful, but do your best to minimize any stress! I made sure to include so many tips in my session guide to help with this, so implement those! I encourage my clients to plan on arriving 10-15 minutes early as well as to not dress young children (8 and younger) in their picture clothes until you’re out of the car and ready…just in case there are any spills!

6. During your session

Your session will last about 60 minutes long. Each session is a little different, but I typically will have a few different backdrops chosen before our session. This may require some walking. At each spot we will start with the classic looking-and-smiling-at-the-camera poses and move into more playful, candid moments. I make sure to start with group shots first as those are usually what families are most wanting. From there I will move to sibling groupings, individual shots, and mom+kids, dad+kids.

While I have my go-to flow for our sessions I am always up for any suggestions! I like to allow some time for play and exploration, especially for littles. My goal for our session is to be able to deliver a variety of images in your gallery.

If you feel awkward in front of the camera, do not worry! You are not the only one! I’ve worked hard to educate myself on how to help people relax during sessions and have posing look natural and flattering. If you are nervous, just let me know! I promise to get you laughing and to have a great time!

7. After your session

You can expect a sneak peek of your session within 72 hours! It’s so fun to send off a few images for you to see! Your full gallery will be ready within 2-3 weeks, depending on the season. I prioritize editing and often get galleries sent out much faster than that!

You will have access to an online gallery where you’ll be able to print, share, and download your images as you’d like. A typical family session will include 70+ beautifully edited images!

I hope that you found this information helpful! If you are ready to set a date for your upcoming family session, I’d love to work with you! Click here to send me an inquiry!

-Nicole