Before they Pack Their Bags - Here's Why the Next Family Photo Might Look Very Different

Life moves fast. One minute, your kid is starting high school, and the next, they’re standing in a cap and gown, ready to take on the world. Graduation isn’t just about celebrating their hard work—it’s also a huge milestone for your family. This is a moment of transition, and trust me, the family dynamic is about to change in ways you can’t even predict. That’s why there’s no better time to book a family portrait than when your child graduates. Think about it—your next big family portrait might not happen until a wedding. And let’s be honest, those photos? They’re beautiful, but they’re not exactly your family as it is right now. Someone’s in a wedding dress, someone else dug out their “good” shirt last minute, and suddenly, your once-intact family portrait has plus-ones, in-laws, and a mix of outfits that scream semi-coordinated chaos. A graduation family portrait captures this stage of your life—just your people, together, before the next chapter begins. When we include family portraits in a grad session, we make sure it’s a true family moment. No stiff, overly posed shots where your graduate is the only focus—this is about celebrating the entire family unit. We keep things relaxed, casual, and natural, ensuring you get timeless images that reflect thisseason of life, not just the formal celebration. And while I don’t charge a session fee for grad portraits, grads receive special pricing for their family portraits, making it an even better time to capture this moment. I’ve seen it too many times—parents tell themselves they’ll book a session “next year,” and then suddenly, next year looks completely different. Kids move away for school, work, or adventures, and before you know it, gathering everyone in the same place at the same time feels impossible. This is your chance to freeze this moment before life takes its next big turn. So let’s make the most of it—because your family, just as it is right now, deserves to be celebrated.