"How Long Does a Family Photoshoot Take? (And What to Expect)"

One of the most common questions I’m asked as a family photographer is: “How long will the photoshoot take?” The truth is, every family is a little different, and so is every session. But to help you plan your day and feel completely at ease, here’s a guide to what you can expect from start to finish.

Typical Session Lengths

For most family shoots, I allow around 60 minutes. This gives us plenty of time to get comfortable, explore a few different spots, and capture a lovely mix of portraits, candid moments, and smaller details.

That said, flexibility is key- some families find we’re done in 45 minutes, while others love to make the most of the full time. It all depends on the age of the children, the size of your family group, and the pace that feels natural to you.

A Relaxed, Natural Pace

The best photos happen when everyone feels comfortable, so I keep sessions relaxed and unhurried. We’ll take time to chat, laugh, and play, especially if little ones need a break or a snack! My approach is to capture genuine connection rather than forcing smiles, so it’s all about creating a calm, fun atmosphere that brings out your family’s personality.

What We’ll Capture

During your photoshoot, I’ll photograph a mix of:

• Group shots – your full family together

• Individual moments – little ones on their own or with each parent

• Candid interactions – giggles, cuddles, and those unposed in-between moments

• Detail shots – hands held, wind-blown hair, and other storytelling touches

  
  

This variety gives you a well-rounded gallery that truly reflects your family- not just how you look, but your family dynamic too.

Location and Light

If we’re shooting outdoors, we’ll often schedule the session for the early morning or late afternoon, when the light is soft and flattering. This timing also helps us avoid the midday rush in parks or public spaces, keeping the focus entirely on you. For at-home sessions, we’ll make use of natural window light and capture those cosy, authentic family moments in familiar surroundings.

After the Shoot

Once the session wraps up, I’ll carefully select and edit the best images to create a beautiful, cohesive gallery. You’ll receive your gallery within two to three weeks, ready to view, download, and share with your loved ones. Each photo is edited with care to keep things timeless, natural, and true to the day. I like to include a few standout photos in black and white, but there’s always the option to add more or make small adjustments, like cropping, if you’d like too!

A family photoshoot isn’t something to rush, it's a chance to slow down, connect, and enjoy time together. Whether we spend 30 minutes laughing in the park or a full hour capturing at-home moments, the goal is always the same: to create photographs that feel real and joyful every time you look at them.

Browse our family photoshoot portfolio here.