Grand Rapids Family Photographer
Portraits that look like your family — real expressions, real connection, and nothing like a catalog shoot.
The Years You'll Want to Remember Exactly as They Were
I'm a mom of four. I know exactly how fast it goes. The stage you're in right now — the ages your kids are, the way they pile into each other, the chaos you're somehow holding together — is worth photographing while it's still happening.
Family sessions work best when you stop trying to make everything perfect and just let your family be your family. The laughs, the wiggles, the moments between poses — that's where the best images come from.
I've been photographing Grand Rapids families since 2006. I know how to make it feel easy, even with kids who are convinced they don't want to be there.
Book a SessionWhat to Expect From Your Family Session
Pre-Session Consult
I'll walk you through location, outfits, and timing so session day feels relaxed and there are no surprises.
Pre-Session Support
Questions before your session? Reach out. Whether it's about what to wear, where to meet, or what to expect — I'm easy to reach and happy to help.
1-Hour Session
Time for the whole family together, individual kids, sibling combos, and any other groupings you want — plus a few candid moments in between.
20 Finished Images
You choose your favorites from the full session. 20 professionally edited images delivered to your gallery — with the option to add more or order an album.
See the Work
Family Session Pricing
Straightforward pricing — no surprise fees.
Mini Session
Offered once in the fall — limited spots available.
- 20-minute session
- 1 location
- 15 finished images — you select
- Great for smaller families or quick updates
Regular Session
For one household / immediate family.
- 1-hour session
- Your choice of location
- Pre-session consultation
- 20 finished images — you select
- Albums & prints available
Extended family or multiple households? Reach out — I'll put together a plan that works.
★★★★★"Your work exceeded all my expectations — which were really high to begin with. The images are absolutely stunning."
★★★★★"No matter what ages we have, Julie is always so patient and has plenty of tricks up her sleeve to get the perfect shot. We've updated our family portrait every year since our fourth child was born — no question we'll keep coming back."
Family Session Questions
When is the best time of year for family portraits in Michigan?
Summer and fall are both popular — summer for the lush greenery and long evenings, fall for the color and that warm golden light. I schedule sessions in the evening, which gives you the softest, most flattering light of the day. Morning sessions are occasionally possible by request.
What if my kids are uncooperative on session day?
That's just kids — and honestly it usually makes for better photos. I've been doing this since 2006, and I've photographed every temperament imaginable. Kids don't need to be perfectly still or posed — they just need to be themselves for a little while.
How long is a family session?
Most family sessions run about an hour — enough time for a variety of poses and groupings without wearing out the little ones.
Where will the session take place?
Wherever feels meaningful to your family. A park you love, a beach, your backyard, downtown Grand Rapids — I'm flexible. If you're not sure, I'll help you find something that fits your family's personality during our pre-session email exchange.
What should everyone wear?
The goal is coordinated, not matching. Pick a color palette — usually 2–3 complementary colors — and let everyone choose within that range. If you want to run your picks by me before the session, just send me a message — I'm happy to take a look.
How many people can be in a family session?
Standard sessions are priced for one household — your immediate family. Extended family or multiple households? Reach out — I'll put together a plan that works.
Let's Make Your Family Portraits This Year
Weekend dates go fast — especially for summer and fall sessions. If you've been thinking about it, sooner is better.