Raleigh Family Photographer
They're only this little
Intentional family photography in Raleigh, NC. Real moments, real connection, and portraits you'll actually hang on the wall.
for a little while.
The session worth
making time for.
Kids grow faster than you expect. The chaos, the closeness, the way your littles look right now, those details are worth holding onto. Relaxed, connection-focused, and led entirely by me. You just show up and be yourselves.
No stiff poses, no forced smiles. Just your family, in this season, remembered the way it actually felt.
family photography
Two ways to experience it
both timeless.
Studio or Outdoor.
Every family is different. Choose the setting that feels right for yours.
Golden hour light, open fields, floral gardens, or a location that means something to you. Perfect for families who want something organic, playful, and full of personality.
Outdoor Session
Studio Session
My natural-light studio near downtown Raleigh offers a clean, calm backdrop that keeps the focus entirely on your family. Simple, timeless, and beautifully lit no matter the season or weather.
What to Expect
on session day
the experience
01
You'll receive a prep guide with outfit inspiration, location tips, and everything you need to feel prepared and excited. I'll also send a short questionnaire to get a feel for your family's personality and what matters most to you.
Before your session
02
I guide the whole session with gentle prompts and connection-based activities that bring out real smiles, real laughter, and real moments. Kids are always welcome to be kids, and I work at your family's pace.
During your session
03
Your curated gallery is ready within 2-3 weeks. From there, you'll purchase your collection and have access to an online store to order artwork. Every image is edited with a timeless, natural finish.
After your session
If you are looking for a local photographer that can bring the love your family has to LIFE, look no further - it's right here with Valerie.
— Jordan S
Valerie's photos speak for themselves - they are beautiful and timeless - but what happens behind the lens is pure magic.
— Marisa D
Valerie is absolutely amazing! She captured beautiful family photos for us with such skill and care.
— Valerie H
Investment
Family Session Pricing
Every family session begins with a $400 session fee, paid at booking to reserve your spot. This covers your session itself and is separate from your collection purchase. After your gallery is delivered, you'll choose the collection that fits your family best.
Paid at booking to secure your date.
This is a separate fee and is not applied toward your collection.
Session Fee:
$400
collections
When to book your
There's never a wrong time for a family session, but spring and fall book the fastest. If you have a specific season, location, or milestone in mind, reaching out early gives you the best chance of landing your ideal date.
Sessions are available Spring through Fall, and I love helping families find the right time of year for the look and feel they're going for. Golden hour in autumn, soft spring light, bright summer mornings, every season has something beautiful to offer.
Once you're ready, use the booking calendar below to find a date and time that works for your family.
Common questions
always ask
Things parents
How long does a family session take?
Most family sessions run about an hour long. That's enough time to work through a variety of setups without kids hitting their limit. There's no rushing, and we take breaks as needed.
What if my kids don't cooperate?
Good news: I come prepared with games, silly prompts, and enough ridiculous faces to win over even the most reluctant little ones. If parents are being playful and having fun, the kids won't be able to resist!
Can we bring our dog?
For an outdoor session, absolutely. Pets are part of the family too and I can recommend a dog friendly location for you. For studio sessions, just let me know ahead of time if that's something you'd like to do and we should be able to make it happen.
What should we wear?
I'll send a session prep guide after you book. In general, neutrals and soft pastels or jewel tones photograph beautifully. Avoid bold patterns and loud colors, and coordinate tones rather than matching perfectly.
Ready to get your session
on the calendar?
The calendar below is for outdoor session bookings. Browse available dates and times, then click an opening that works for your family to complete your booking. It only takes a few minutes.
Sessions fill up quickly, especially in spring and fall, so if you see a date you love, go ahead and grab it.
Family Galleries
Fall Family Session
A stunning October afternoon at golden hour with the sweetest little one year old and her parents who can't get enough of those sweet cheeks.
Maternity Family
The last family session before baby number three. A quiet morning, a growing belly, two big siblings who couldn't contain their excitement, and exactly the kind of in-between we wanted to remember.
A playful morning at the NC Museum of Art Park celebrating their baby girl's first birthday. The landscape was lush, the light was beautiful, and the little girl was the star.
