Here’s What Happens from Booking to Final Delivery: Portrait Session Timeline

You’ve wrangled the kids into semi-clean clothes, promised them donuts afterwards, and you’ve finally messaged the photographer whose work has been sitting in your tabs for two months. Now what?

If you’re like most of the busy, thoughtful moms I work with, you’re probably wondering: How does this whole thing actually work? How will I know what to wear? What if the kids have a meltdown? Will the photos just end up sitting on a hard drive?

I get it. That limbo between booking and receiving your final images can feel uncertain. But here’s the thing – when you choose a photographer who truly sees you and guides you through the process with care, the experience feels calm, intentional, and dare I say… joyful.

Let’s walk through what actually happens when you book a portrait session with me, and what to expect from start to finish.

It Shouldn’t Feel Rushed or Like Another Thing on the Calendar

Life moves fast. And when you’re raising little ones, juggling work, and just trying to make it through the week, carving out time for a photo session might feel like a luxury you don’t have space for.

But professional photography isn’t something you want to cram in at the last minute. Not just because of planning logistics, but because these images are your family’s story. And your story deserves more than a rushed, posed hour squeezed between daycare pick-up and soccer practice.

The best sessions happen when there’s thoughtful space – to reflect on what really matters to you in this season of life, to choose wardrobe that feels like you, to prepare your kids (and yourself) with confidence. I always check in a couple days before, just to make sure everyone’s feeling good. Because your mindset walking into our session changes everything.

One of my favorite clients came to me wanting candid, connection-filled photos of her family just as they are – with three small, energetic kiddos. The session was wild, as you can imagine, but she and her partner stayed fully present, smiling through the noise, just engaging with their kids. Those images? They hold magic. Because they let go of control and focused on connection.

Here’s how we make moments like that feel possible from the time you book, all the way to the final printed artwork.

From First Email to Prints in Hand: How It All Flows

Step 1: Initial Inquiry & Booking

You’ve sent me a message on my website or connected through Instagram. First things first – thank you. I’ll always respond personally, usually within 24 hours, and we’ll start with a conversation.

We’ll talk about what’s drawing you to a session right now – whether it’s your baby’s changing face, a tiny gap-toothed grin, or just the sense that time is moving too fast. This isn’t just about “getting photos” – this is about honoring this season of life, as it really is.

From there:

• We’ll choose a tentative date and session type (family, lifestyle newborn, etc.)
• You’ll receive a booking proposal with session details and a contract
• Once signed and your retainer is paid, your session is officially on the calendar!

Step 2: Session Planning & Welcome Guide

After booking, you’ll get a lovingly crafted welcome guide with helpful tips – from prepping your little ones, to choosing clothing that feels timeless but still personal. Think of it as your calm and creative roadmap to a laid-back session.

You can always message me along the way with wardrobe questions, ideas you’re loving, or anything you’re nervous about. I truly mean it when I say – I’m here for all of it.

If you’re not sure where to take your portraits, I’ll help with that too. Whether it’s an in-home newborn session in OKC or golden-hour family photos in Edmond, we’ll choose a spot that feels right for your family’s rhythm.

Step 3: Session Day

This is where everything comes together – and where I ask you to do something kind of counterintuitive.

Just be.

Be with your people. Let the kids be who they are. Don’t worry about the “perfect” smile or pose. I’ll be there, quietly following the light and watching for those unscripted moments – the way your toddler squeezes your hand or your baby’s lashes rest against your shoulder.

You don’t have to perform. You just need to be present.

Step 4: Editing & Curation

After the session, I review and hand-edit each of your images with intention and care, using my hybrid film and digital process that creates that soft, nostalgic quality you see in my portfolio.

This step isn’t rushed. Nothing here is batch-processed or overly filtered. I want every image to hold the quiet beauty and emotion of that moment – the kind of photo you want to keep out, not tuck away.

Turnaround is typically around 3 weeks, and I stay in touch throughout the process.

Step 5: Gallery Delivery & Heirlooms

You’ll receive a beautiful online gallery you can view, download, and (most importantly) select for prints. Because digital files are fleeting – and your family’s story deserves to live on your walls, in albums, in your hands.

I offer heirloom-quality prints and fine art albums that are made to last for generations. Whether you want a gallery wall in your dining room or a linen album to pass down to your children, I’ll guide you in creating something tangible and timeless.

Why This All Matters

This isn’t just about great photos – though of course, that’s part of it.

It’s about crafting an experience that opens up space for connection. It’s about helping you slow down, breathe, and really see your people.

From the first message to the package on your doorstep, my goal is that you feel supported, seen, and never rushed. Because beautiful images happen when we give them time – and when we let go of perfection and embrace what’s real.

Ready to Create Something Beautiful Together?

If you’re curious about booking or just looking for guidance, reach out here.

In the meantime, here’s a little mindset tip to hold onto: Your kids don’t need to behave “perfectly.” What you need is to be with them.

That’s the magic.

Let’s preserve it – together.