How Long Should a Photo Session Last?

If you're searching for a Colorado Springs family photographer, you've probably noticed that many photographers advertise 20-minute, 30-minute, or 60-minute sessions.

I used to do the same.

But after photographing over a hundred families, couples, and expecting parents, I realized something important:

The best photographs don't happen because a certain number of minutes have passed. They happen because people finally feel comfortable enough to be themselves.

That's why I no longer offer photography sessions with a strict time limit.

Instead, I focus on creating an experience that unfolds naturally.

Here's what I started noticing.

Some families arrive ready to go.

The kids jump right in.

Everyone relaxes quickly.

Within twenty minutes, we've already created photographs they'll treasure for years.

Other families need a little more time.

Maybe your toddler wants to inspect every rock before they'll look my direction.

Maybe your baby needs a snack break.

Maybe you're feeling a little awkward because you haven't had professional photos taken in years.

That's normal. Honestly, I'd be more surprised if everyone felt completely comfortable the moment I pulled out my camera.

The best moments don't happen because enough minutes have passed.

They happen because something shifts.

Your kids stop wondering who I am.

You stop thinking about where to put your hands.

Your family starts paying more attention to each other than the camera.

That's usually when my favorite photographs happen.

Not because I asked for them.

Because nobody was trying so hard anymore.

I don't want anyone watching the clock.

I've seen it happen.

Parents apologizing because their kids are being kids.

Couples asking, "Are we taking too long?"

Everyone quietly wondering how much time is left.

That's not how I want your photo session to feel.

You're already living in a world that schedules every hour of your day.

I don't want your family photos to feel like another appointment you're trying to finish on time.

So... when does the session end?

Usually, when it feels complete.

When we've wandered a little.

When the beautiful light slides behind the mountains.

When we’ve captured the portraits your grandparents will frame.

When I’ve caught the little in-between moments you didn't even know I saw.

Most of the time, that naturally happens within about 45 minutes to an hour.

Sometimes sooner.

Sometimes later.

The goal isn't to stretch the session.

The goal is to never cut it short just because the clock says we should.

What this means for you

Whether we're taking family photos, maternity photos, or documenting this season with the people you love most, my hope is that you'll leave feeling like you actually enjoyed yourself.

Not like you survived a photo shoot.

Because years from now, you probably won't remember whether we spent 47 minutes together or 58.

You'll remember your daughter collecting tiny flowers.

Your son asking if he could ride on Dad's shoulders one more time.

The way the mountains looked that evening.

The way your family felt.

That's what I'm really photographing.

If this approach feels like a breath of fresh air, I'd love to create something meaningful with you.

Let's start planning your session. Inquire Here