FAQ
What actually happens during a family portrait session?
Your session lasts around an hour in our private Melbourne studio.
I’ll guide you with gentle direction and simple prompts, leaving room for movement, laughter and time together. You don’t need to arrive knowing how to pose.
What if my kids won't cooperate?
Children sometimes need a break, a little reassurance or time to settle in. That’s okay.
Your children don’t need to sit perfectly still. I’ll work with them and help keep the session relaxed.
What if I feel awkward in front of the camera?
Most people do at first. That’s why I’ll guide you throughout the session, so you can relax and enjoy being together. Some of the best portraits of parents happen when they’re looking at their kids, not at me. We’re looking for the expressions that feel like you, not perfect smiles at the camera.
Do you shoot in a studio or on location?
All family portrait sessions take place in our private Melbourne studio.
It’s a comfortable space where the lighting is consistent and the weather won’t affect your session. No weather to worry about and no strangers walking past. Anyone can take a break when they need one, including you.
What should we wear?
Once you’re booked, you’ll receive a styling guide with advice on colours, textures and choosing clothes that work together.
If you’re unsure about anything, I’m happy to help.
Are digital files included?
A matching digital file comes with every artwork you order, so you can share your favourites with family.
Digital files aren’t sold on their own.
How does pricing work?
A non-refundable $275 session retainer secures your booking. It includes your planning, studio session and private reveal and ordering appointment.
It does not include artwork or digital files and is not credited towards your artwork order.
Most families invest $1,500 or more in their finished artwork. There is no minimum artwork spend.
You’ll choose and order your artwork at your private reveal appointment. A matching digital file is included with each artwork purchased.
What happens at the viewing appointment?
You’ll see your portraits for the first time together, on the big screen. That’s where they look their best, and it’s much easier to choose there than on a phone at the end of a long day. For that reason, I don’t send online galleries or previews.
This is your selection and ordering appointment. I’ll guide you through choosing your favourites, comparing artwork options and placing your order.
Please come with the person you’d normally make big decisions with, usually your partner. The appointment is for up to two people, so it stays relaxed and you can decide together on the day. If one of you can’t make it, we’ll simply find another time.
If you’d like a second viewing, there’s a fee for the extra appointment, which I’ll explain before it’s booked.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes. If spreading the cost makes things easier, we’re happy to work that out with you.
How far in advance should we book?
As soon as the idea feels right for you. Sessions do fill, particularly around school holidays and the end of the year, so earlier gives you more flexibility on dates.
Can we include our pet?
Absolutely. Let me know when you book so I can plan the session around everyone coming.