Lifestyle family Photography
-What to expect-

Kim Messina, a Long Island photographer, smiles cross-legged on a cobblestone street, wearing a denim jacket and black pants, with a blurred background for a relaxed urban vibe.

Hi there, I’m Kim.   Thank you for considering me for you newborn photos.   This is such an important time in life and it deserves care and authenticity.  

I’ve always loved photography but one of the main reasons that brought me be a family and newborn photographer was my own children.  I wanted to be able to capture all their quirkiness, their details and silly faces.  Things that pass by in a blink of an eye as they grow and change.  The newborn phase especially goes by in a flash so you want to be able capture and hold on to every moment.   

What to expect from your family photoshoot

My overall goal for every family session is a relaxed, stress-free, and fun experience for all! 

My sessions are pretty laid back and I try to make it as stress free and fun as possible.  Games galore for the kids and to keep everyone moving and having a great time.   I don’t go overboard with props or posing, but instead encourage families to be themselves in front of the camera so we can capture natural moments. I love  being able to show the LOVE and CONNECTION you have for your family.  

Sessions can be done outdoors at a beautiful park or town or even in your home.  I love both options but can you decide what’s right for you. 

I don’t want you to stress over what to wear so I’ll help you find a style that’s authentic to your family,  Happy to share some ideas and lead you in the right direction with a “what to wear” guide.



Joyful family of four outdoors: mom holds young boy, smiling at dad carrying smiling girl. Lush green trees behind.
Three smiling children sit closely on a blanket in a grassy field, capturing a joyful, warm, and playful sibling bond.

How long does a Family session last?

Full family sessions last around 60 minutes.   This gives everyone a chance to warm up in front of the camera, move through our location and capture all the fun moments.   Don’t worry about your kids lasting for the full 60 minutes.  I keep them busy and having a good time so it goes fast.  Some of the best photos happen at the end of the session when everyone has loosened up and allowed their personalities to shine. 

For outdoor sessions, utilizing the prettiest light of the day is essential to me to make the most beautiful images possible.  I shoot all outdoor family sessions during “golden hour,” i.e. the last hour of the day before sunset or early in the morning just after sunrise if that’s better for you.   

Joyful outdoor moment: smiling child in a patterned shirt playfully tickled by two adults in blue, lush greenery behind.

What will my gallery include?

Your galley will include at least 75 images for a full family session.  I carefully select the very best images form your session for you to download.  Most images will be in color with a select few in black and white. 


You’ll be able to download images to your computer and/or phone, as well as order prints directly from your gallery or you are welcome to print / order through wherever you like! 

A happy family of four on a bed, with the father holding a laughing toddler and the mother smiling at their baby.
A loving couple kisses their smiling baby in a striped romper, creating a warm family bond in a softly lit room.

Where will by session take place?

I have a few favorite locations around Long Island that I love to use for family sessions. If you’re booked for a full session, I will provide you with a location guide with my suggestions at local parks, beaches and urban towns.  I’m happy to help you choose what’s best for you depending on your family’s style and your overall vision for your images.  

Joyful forest moment: woman in a light dress and child in a leather jacket touch noses, smiling warmly.
Two young girls in a field, the older girl hugging and kissing the younger. Both have long hair and are smiling joyfully.

investment

My galleries are generally huge and include a least 75 images.  One of my favorite parts about my job is the ability to give clients lots and lots of photos.  If it were me I’d want every photo from the season.  All the silly faces, bloopers, precious moments and laughter so that’s what I strive to give.  All the keepers I give to you.  

A retainer/deposit is due at time of booking with the remainder of your balance due the day of your photoshoot. (Travel fees may apply depending on your location for east end Long Island or western Nassau County and beyond). Let me know where you live and I’ll see if there is any additional charge.

Total cost for a full family session is $875

Extended family sessions consist of group photo plus “micro” sessions of each grouping/ family unit plus the special combinations that work for your family.  Extended families take a bit more time.  Cost ranges from $1,100 – $1,300 depending on the size of your family.   

Take a look at a sample gallery here

Joyful outdoor scene: boy carries laughing girl on his back, another boy smiles walking beside them on a sandy path.

How do i book?

Any questions?  I’m happy to answer.  Feel free to reach out.  If you’re ready to move forward contact me below.  

I’m so excited to work with you and meet your family.  Contact me below to set up your session    

Joyful family of four on a dirt path: mom leans toward laughing son, dad holds smiling daughter. Autumn leaves in the background.
Joyful family running on a sunny grassy path; kids laugh holding hands as an adult leads. Lively and happy scene.

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