A man lifts a woman in a white fuzzy jacket and glasses, touching foreheads with her against a city skyline background on a clear day.

Family Lifestyle Photography in NYC

Your life is already interesting. Let’s capture it that way.

Family photography sessions rooted in storytelling — natural, candid moments that give you and your children the space to relax and simply be yourselves.

Family sessions typically take place in your home or a meaningful location, where everyone feels comfortable and at ease. Familiar spaces allow real, natural moments to unfold.
If you’re drawn to an outdoor setting or need help choosing a location in NYC and beyond, I’m always happy to offer guidance and suggestions.

what to expect

My approach is relaxed and organic. I begin by observing and documenting what naturally unfolds as you and your family spend time together. As we warm up, I’ll gently step in with simple prompts and directions to help create connection, ease, and moments that feel true to you.

what is included

  1. Thoughtful Art Direction & Planning – Guidance from our first conversation through your final gallery so everything feels intentional and natural.

  2. Wardrobe Consultation – Styling and color guidance to help you feel confident and comfortable.

  3. A Relaxed, Unrushed Session – A 2-hour family photography session designed to allow real moments to unfold, with space to pause or reset as needed.

  4. Professional Editing – Each image carefully edited with attention to color, light, and emotion.

  5. Private Online Gallery – At least 60 high-resolution, professionally edited images ready to download and share.

  6. Storytelling Slideshow – A curated slideshow set to music, bringing your session together as a cohesive, emotional story.

Family Session

Family Photography Session NYC

A close-up of a woman's hand holding a child's foot, with the child reading a book in the background.

Pricing:

Family Lifestyle Sessions begin at $650. Price might vary depending on location, timing, and the level of customization.

Authentic Family Photography in NYC

Authentic Family Photography in NYC

Family Lifestyle Photography NYC

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From the Families I’ve Photographed

  • With no prep needed, Sonja’s expertise captured the beauty of my life. Following the birth of my child, I put off planning an in-home family photo shoot, waiting for the moment where the activity of life’s maintenance aligned into one point in time. Needless to say, years flew by. I finally decided to book a shoot with Sonja, messy life be damned. When I saw the way her artistry encapsulated the special bond between my child and me, I realized that waiting for the “right” moment would have made me miss the chance to capture the real moments along the way. Sonja showed us the beauty of our life that was there all along. 

    —Nina

  • "The photos Sonja captured are so incredibly beautiful. I cried watching the slideshow (more than once). I cannot thank her enough for capturing me and my daughter - it felt so natural."

    —Jenn

  • "We are over the moon! The photos and the slideshow are beautiful - all four grandparents loved it too!"

    —Catherine

  • "I cried looking through the photos. Sonja really captured who I am, and this super special moment in my home with my adorable kitties.There are a few really powerful badass ones too, thank you for giving me the confidence and me feel so at home being photographed."

    —Rachel

FAQ

about Family Lifestyle Sessions

  • Your outfits help tell your family’s story, so it’s worth giving them a little thought. Aim for coordinated, not matching looks. Choose 2–4 colors that work well together and mix in soft neutrals and muted tones.

    Avoid bold logos, graphics, neon colors, or very busy patterns, as they can distract from the connection between you. Texture and layers (like knits, linen, denim, or light jackets) photograph beautifully and add depth without overpowering the image.

  • Kids have their own rhythm, and that's exactly what I aim to capture with documentary-style photography. When we transition to more directed moments, I always adapt to their mood. Plus, we can take breaks whenever they need!

  • I can suggest some online print services that will ensure your images are perfectly adjusted for print. If you'd like, I'm also available to assist with printing and framing your images for a fee.

  • Many people feel a bit uneasy at first, which is completely normal. I usually suggest that my clients concentrate on their family members or get involved in activities they would typically do if I weren’t there. To make it easier, you might also want to plan some fun family activities in advance, like reading, playing music, cooking together etc.

  • I take many pictures during our time together, capturing different moments, angles, and expressions. After our session, I upload the images to my computer and carefully review each one, selecting those that resonate with my style. I then edit each chosen image individually, dedicating time and love to this process. I believe each photograph deserves careful analysis, where I decide the mood through color grading, exposure adjustments, and choosing between color or black and white.

  • You’re not required to, but please remember that for Family Home Sessions, incorporating your home into the images is ideal. I aim to capture families in a relaxed atmosphere, engaging with their surroundings and participating in everyday activities.

  • I usually share the final gallery within 15 business days after our session.

  • Absolutely! I love shooting in new locations. Share your destination and I'll get back to you with availability and any travel details. I also spend time in Europe each summer, so if you're based there or planning a trip, feel free to reach out. I'd love to make it work.