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Family Photography in the Places You Already Love

Family sessions are shot indoors, on purpose. Kids don't sit still for long, and some of the best photos happen in the fifteen minutes after everyone stops posing. Sessions are held at favorite Bay Area spots; Golden Gate Park, the Marin headlands, Berkeley's tree-lined streets, or a quiet corner of Oakland — timed around early morning or golden hour, when both the light and the kids are at their best. The goal isn't a stiff lineup of matching outfits. It's a set of photos that actually feels like your family, five or ten years from now.

Let's Tell Your Story
 

The Bolingers

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View The Bollinger's' Family Journal
 

The Tollners

“Emily is so kind and feel comfortable during the session. We enjoyed with her. All the photos were great! Highly recommend! Thank you, Emily!”
— Hiroko L. Walnut Creek, CA

The Howels

“We recently had a Fall family photos session. Our photos turned out great! These photos will live on in our family for generations! Thank you Emily! ”
— Maliza C. San Ramon, CA

The Lundbergs

“Emily has such a creative eye and makes you feel 100% comfortable, she listens and understands what I want, and I would highly recommend her!”
— Alex N. Dublin, CA

Marie Davis Newborn

 

The Shahs

“Emily is able to capture something only a picture can say without words, which encompasses those very special moments in our lives that we always want to remember. ”
— Kristi H. Livermore, CA

Sidney Hernandez Maternity

 

The Hamiltons

 
 

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do family photos cost in the Bay Area?

Most Bay Area family sessions run $350–$600 for a 60–90 minute shoot with 30–40 edited images. Shorter 20–30 minute mini sessions cost $100–$250 and include about 15–20 photos, while full-service or premium photographers can charge $800–$2,500 or more depending on length, location, and family size.

How long does a family photo session take, and is longer better?

Most sessions run 30 to 90 minutes, and longer isn't always better. Young kids have a short window before energy and patience run out, so a good photographer can capture a full, natural gallery in 30–45 minutes before the meltdowns start.

What should we wear for family photos?

Coordinate outfits instead of matching them exactly. Solid colors and soft, layered textures photograph best, while busy patterns and logos tend to pull focus from faces and expressions. A simple, cohesive palette across the family keeps the images looking timeless instead of trendy.

What's the best time of day for outdoor family photos in San Francisco?

Early morning and golden hour are the most requested times. The light is softer and more flattering, kids usually have more patience outside of midday, and spots like Golden Gate Park, Baker Beach, and Marin are far less crowded.

 

LET’S MAKE MEMORIES!

Thanks for considering us to document and create beautiful memories for your family. Please fill out the form to get started. If you have questions about pricing, please Click Here. For any special request, feel free to email me at hello@merakivisionstudio.com.

Mental Notes for family with young children:

Let's have a relaxed session with “letting go” of the "Perfect" family portrait with everyone looking straight at the camera. Although, let's be honest, it is great to have young children looking right at the camera, but ultimately, children would look happier and have a good time together when they are enjoying doing whatever they are doing.