It's best to reach out at least 6-8 weeks before the date you're hoping to book.
For seasons like fall and winter, it's best to schedule for a full session at least 3 months in advance as these are snatched up quickly. 
Sign up at the bottom of the page to be on the email list for when minis are available to book.

The sitting fee, which covers the time of the session, is $200, with $50 being due at booking to save a date on the calendar. The remainder is due on or before the day of the session.
Email me at katie@katielouisephotography.com or use the contact form through the website to let me know. 
 I always respond within 24-48 hours. Remember to check your spam if you don't receive a response by then.

Most clients choose an outdoor location for their Pittsburgh family photo session.
Some of my favorite spots are Peters Lake Park, Mingo Creek County Park, Fairview Park, South Park, Mellon Park and Hartwood Acres Mansion (travel fees applu).
All outdoor session take place 1.5-2 hours before sunset. This is important to keep in mind if you have children who are still napping.
Summer sunsets are later in the day, so it usually helps if the little have a nap later on photo day.
If you're booking a studio session, we have more flexibility with time.
*Extended family sessions usually only take place outdoors, and you must already be a current client. Separate pricing applies.

*Extended family sessions usually only take place outdoors, and you must already be a current client. Separate pricing applies.

A full session typically last 45 minutes to 1 hour. If the kids are older or you have teenagers, usually I can get everything we need in less time.

I'm a huge fan of neutral and earth-toned colors, but I encourage clients to dress in what makes them happy and feel good.
For outdoor sessions, the main rule is to not wear bright greens, but hunter green works well. And avoid large logos or graphic prints.
Also patterns/prints that are tiny and busy don't necessarily photograph well outside. It's best to stick with larger patterns or solids.
My other advice is to find options for the family that have different textures, as this will add depth to the photos.
Colors/outfits don't need to be matching. That's a difficult task sometimes, but it looks beautiful when using coordinating colors. You usually have these options already in your closet!

Since we live in Pittsburgh, this is always something we deal with! The forecast can literally show four seasons in one day, so I usually wait until the night before or morning of to make a decision.
The sun is hard to come by in the fall and winter months, so if it's going to be cloudy or overcast I do not reschedule, especially for minis.
Usually the only reason for rescheduling will be heavy rain, hail, snow or high winds.
If we do need to reschedule we'll decide on a date at the time since I cannot reserve two dates per clients.

If you have children who are 15 months to 2.5 years old, this is the hardest age because they are movers and finding their independence. They want to explore, so candid photos turn out amazing if you're at this stage. I have years of experience and some tricks up my sleeve for distracting and getting them to giggle. Bribes beforehand or promising ice cream after never hurt either ;).
While rare, if your child is just having a bad day, I usually try for about 20 minutes to warm them up. If they have more of a serious disposition or are shy around strangers, then the session will continue and we'll focus on connection and interactions and movement. If they are flat out crying and super unhappy we'll want to reschedule. I don't charge an extra sitting fee if the session takes place at the studio, and if it's outside it will be an extra $50 just to cover the time and travel.

If you have littles, bring an extra outfit just in case.
Snacks are almost a must for sunset sessions, but it's never a bad idea to carry these for any session. Kids can get hangry pretty easily!
Have some videos queued up on your phone or a playlist of just music that they like. I won't start with this, but it can sometimes help to play in the background if they need help warming up.
I usually have a lint roller, but having one yourself couldn't hurt, and a hairbrush (and maybe hairspray) helps too!

1-2 days after the session, I will send the proofing gallery. These will be watermarked and cannot be downloaded yet. You will have one week to choose and pay for a collection (separate from the sitting fee). Once you've chosen and paid for your favorites, I'll do final edits which will include blemish removal, fixing distracting fly-aways, and filling in the backdrop if needed. This usually takes 7-10 business days, excluding Mondays and holidays. Then you'll be able to download the high-resolution images, as well as have access to the online store for ordering high-quality prints.

When should I book my family photography session?

How long does the session last?

Location + time

Do you offer extended family sessions?

What should we wear?

What if the weather doesn't cooperate?

What if my kids don't cooperate at all? What if they don't smile?

What should I bring?

When will i receive my gallery?