Booking a family photography session is such a special investment. You’re capturing moments that will become cherished memories, displayed in your home for years to come. But before you book your Knoxville family photos, it’s important to find the right photographer—someone who not only aligns with your vision but makes the entire process fun and stress-free.
Here are 10 essential questions to ask before booking your family photos to ensure you get the best experience possible:
1. What is your photography style?
Each photographer brings their own unique style to a session. Do you love candid, lifestyle photos that capture your family interacting naturally? Or do you prefer more traditional, posed shots? Knowing the photographer’s style upfront will help you decide if they’re a good fit for your vision.
At Susannah Raye Photography, my focus is on creating warm, natural moments that feel authentic—especially for young families. I use playful prompts and games to keep everyone engaged and relaxed!
2. What kind of locations do you recommend?
The setting of your photos can make a huge difference in the overall feel of your session. A good photographer will have plenty of location suggestions, whether you want a lush, nature-filled backdrop or a more urban vibe.
As a Knoxville photographer, I love recommending beautiful local spots like Cades Cove in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park or the scenic views at the UT Gardens.
3. What time of day do you prefer to shoot?
Lighting is everything in photography. For outdoor sessions, ask the photographer about their preferred time of day. Golden hour, which is right before sunset, provides that soft, glowing light that creates magical photos. The main thing is that they are confident and capable to handle different types of light.
While I can adjust to whatever lighting necessary, I always aim for golden hour sessions to ensure we capture that dreamy, warm light. It creates such a beautiful aesthetic that fits with my editing, posing, and outfit recommendation style. Sunrise has a very similar feel in being beautiful soft light, though it is less warm (orange-toned) Sometimes it is easier for little ones to have a morning session than an evening session.
4. How do you handle young children during sessions?
If you have little ones, it’s important to ask how the photographer works with kids. Sessions can sometimes be overwhelming for children, and you’ll want to know that your photographer has experience keeping them engaged and happy.
With 15 years of experience working with children and two little ones of my own, I’ve perfected a relaxed, playful approach that keeps kids smiling without the pressure of posing for the camera. As a mom, I know how stressful it is if I can tell that my photographer is irritated with my kids, I won't ever be that way. I love kids and their playful silly antics. It is so fun seeing how they interpret my prompts and games!
5. Do you offer any guidance on what to wear?
Coordinating outfits can feel stressful, but many photographers provide tips or even access to a client closet. Ask if your photographer offers any styling advice to help your family look cohesive and comfortable.
I provide personalized wardrobe guidance and even offer access to my client closet, filled with flattering, timeless pieces for mamas and little ones.
6. What’s included in your packages?
Knowing exactly what’s included in your session fee is essential. Will you receive digital images, print credits, or tangible products like albums or canvases? Make sure the photographer’s package aligns with what you’re looking for.
My family session package includes flexible session length (typically 45-60 minutes long), access for mom to my client closet, personalized styling assistance, location recommendations from pre-scouted locations, an engaged and intentional session experience, all the best photos, a $100 print credit, and access to my professional print lab for high-quality prints and canvases with a guide to help you make your selections.
7. Do you offer any products, like albums or prints, in addition to digital images?
While digital images are great for sharing, many families want tangible products like albums or framed prints to display in their homes. Ask if the photographer offers professionally printed products to help bring your photos to life.
I partner with a professional print lab offer a variety of print options, including albums, canvases, and metal prints, so you can display your favorite moments beautifully in your home. After you've received your gallery, I will send you a guide that breaks down the nuances of each of the different products so that you can confidently select the best products and prints for your home.
8. How do you handle bad weather or rescheduling?
Life happens, and sometimes you’ll need to reschedule due to weather or unforeseen circumstances. Make sure you understand your photographer’s rescheduling policy, so you know what to expect.
In Knoxville, the weather can be unpredictable, but I’m always flexible with rescheduling and will keep you updated if any changes are necessary.
9. How long does it take to get the final images?
Ask how long it will take to receive your final gallery. This can vary by photographer, but it’s good to know when you can expect to see your photos, especially if you’re planning to use them for a specific occasion.
For my family sessions, you’ll receive your full gallery within 2-3 weeks, but I always provide a few sneak peeks within a few days!
10. What’s your approach to creating a relaxed, fun experience?
The best family photos happen when everyone feels comfortable and at ease. Ask the photographer how they make sessions enjoyable for everyone involved.
I take a laid-back, playful approach to every session. My goal is to capture your family as they are, without forced poses, so your photos feel genuine and full of life. As a mom, I know how much it means to me to have photos in which I feel beautiful and see the natural interactions that I have with my children captured in a way that feels like artwork. I bring this passion to your session to capture this special time for you to have as precious memories as your children continue to grow.
Asking the right questions can help you have confidence in your choice when you find a photographer who not only matches your style but creates an experience you’ll love.
If you’re looking for a Knoxville photographer who prioritizes authentic moments and a relaxed atmosphere, I’d love to chat more about capturing this time in your family's life!
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lifestyle photographer
Hi, my name is
Susannah!
There are too many beautiful little moments to family life and motherhood to let them pass by undocumented.
Welcome, my name is Susannah! I'm a follower of Christ, wife, fellow mama, and your Knoxville family photographer
Being a mother is my greatest joy, I love helping moms create beautiful family pictures with their husband and children. I help you relax and feel comfortable in front of my camera so that your true personalities can really shine through, creating timeless treasured pieces of art that you'll cherish.
Photos are about telling the story of your child's boisterous laughter, your newborn's curled fingers around your own, your daughter's special snuggle against her daddy's chest, the sun catching the curls bouncing as your toddler tumbles into your arms, & the tender warmth of being wrapped in your husband's embrace. These are the moments you'll want to remember!
I love to get to know you, the things that are special to you, the things that you want to remember, and tailoring sessions to each family to tell your story in an intentional and meaningful way.
work with me
A meaningful and fun photo experience with your spouse and kiddos in one of the beautiful outdoor locations in the Knoxville area, West Knox, Maryville, and beyond: Field, mountain views, pleasant park, or historical architecture, I am always on the search for more beautiful places to recommend for my clients.
work with me
Intentional photos of the expectant mother in a beautiful outdoor location. Her significant other and other children are included in the session as well. Flowy dresses to highlight your beautiful bump and make you feel as stunning as you are highly recommended!
work with me
Intentional and stress-free photos of your beautiful newborn (and his or her immediate family) in the comfort of your own home where baby's memories begin, or in a beautiful outdoor location near Knoxville, Tennessee.
