Services
Family, Children, Maternity, Newborn
Pricing
Family, Children, Maternity
Family sessions, child milestones, and maternity photoshoots are about 60 minutes and include up to 5 family members. *For larger groups, friends and family can be added for $15 per person.
Based on your preferences, sessions can take place in my studio in Crystal Lake or outdoors in natural light. We can travel up to 20 miles included in your session fee, but please contact me for rates and availability for additional distances. I serve areas of Northern Illinois including Barrington, Crystal Lake, St. Charles, and beyond.
All portrait sessions come with an online gallery of 20 professionally retouched images to download and print as you please. Additional photos may be purchased upon request individually, or I also offer a package of ALL photos.
Starting at: $400.00
Deposit due at booking: $50.00
Package with ALL photos: $550.00
*Please contact me for additional add-ons, like if you want a child milestone/1st birthday session with a personalized theme! :)
Newborn Session
Newborn sessions are for babies under 3 weeks of age. Newborn sessions are usually about 2 hours long and can include a mix of photos with parents and siblings as well as artistically posed individual portraits of baby. I have lots of wraps, headbands, and props at my studio for you to choose from. Groups can include up to five family members, with additional members added for $15/ per person.
Based on your preferences, sessions can take place in my studio in Crystal Lake or in your home. Travel up to 20 miles is included, but please contact me for rates and availability for additional distance.
All newborn portrait sessions come with an online gallery of 20 professionally retouched images to download and print as you please. Additional photos may be purchased upon request individually, or I also offer a package of ALL photos.
I am extensively trained in newborn posing and safety, ensuring extra special care and handling of your little one.
Starting at: $450.00
Deposit due at booking: $50.00
Package with ALL photos: $600.00
*Please contact me for additional add-ons, like if you want a special theme or digital backdrop for your newborn photos
FAQs
How far in advance should I book?
The sooner, the better! I typically book 2-5 months in advance, but sometimes there is room with shorter notice. Contact me today to check availability!
Where do newborn sessions take place?
You can meet me at my studio in Downtown Crystal Lake, or I can come to you and take photos at your home. Wherever you’re most comfortable.
What can I expect at a newborn session? Do you have any tips for me?
You will receive this helpful Newborn Session Guide before your appointment to explain what to expect from your newborn session, but if you have additional questions that are not covered in the guide, please reach out and I will happily answer them for you.
Is there a best time of day to shoot?
Without a doubt, outdoor photos are best during Golden Hour! The first and last hours of daylight give your portraits a warm, flattering, dreamy glow. For studio portraits, the best time of day is whenever your children are happiest and well rested. McCarrel Photography is happy to coordinate around your child’s nap and meal schedule.
What should we wear to a family session?
Whatever you like! Some families prefer to dress up and some like to keep it casual. I’ve prepared this handy What To Wear Guide for your inspiration. Whatever your style preference, I advise families to choose outfits that allow for a comfortable range of movement. My portraits contain a lot of authentic parent-child interactions and we often play games outdoors so please leave the stilettos at home!
What if [insert last minute delays here]?
Life happens! As a child and baby photographer, I know there are days when the kids take forever to get out the door. That’s why I build in extra time during regular sessions to accommodate for any unexpected delays. If you are running late for any reason, please notify me. Mini sessions or outdoor shoots with specific daylight times are a bit more time-sensitive. Lateness can result in your session being cut short. Please try to be on time so you don’t miss out on any poses or pictures. If you need to reschedule, please give at least 24 hours notice so I can help you set a new date.
Do you offer mini sessions? I sure do! Usually around holidays, usually themed. Join my Preferred Clients List to get first dibs on mini sessions when they’re announced! I also post about upcoming minis on my McCarrel Photography Facebook page so follow me there to stay connected!
I’m in need of X type of photography. Would you do that for me?
Currently I only offer newborn photography, child milestone photography, maternity, and family photography. That said, I do know a lot of other amazing photographers in northern Illinois that can help you with anything else you might need! Send me a message and I’ll help you find what you’re looking for!
Great! How do I get started?
I’d love to chat with you about your family! Ask me any questions you have, or reserve a session here.