Family Photographer in West Bend, WI
Family photos shouldn't feel stressful or awkward. My goal is to create an experience where your family can relax, have fun, and really enjoy being together. You don't have to worry about knowing how to pose or whether your children will sit still. I guide you everey step of the way and use a mix of movement, prompts, and playful ineraction to create natural and genuine photos of you and your family.
Whether you are exploring a park, playing in a creek, walking through downtown West Bend, or simply cuddling in a field together, the focus is always on capturing your family's personality and season of life you are in right now.
The result is a gallery full of photos with real smiles, fun moments, and beautiful portraits you will be able to hang onto and love for years to come.
fun & relaxed family photography sessions
What makes my family sessions different
Many parents worry that their children won't sit still or cooperate during a family photo session. The good news is they don't have to! My family sessions are designed around movement, connection, and play rather than expecting kids to smile perfectly at the camera. I'll guide you every step of the way, showing you exactly where to stand and what to do so you never have to wonder if you're doing it right.
One of my biggest goals during every family photography session is to connect with your children and get on their level so they feel comfortable being themselves. When kids feel relaxed and are having fun, their true personalities shine through. That's when the magic happens and I'm able to capture those genuine smiles, belly laughs, and sweet moments that make your family unique.
Instead of focusing on perfect poses, I focus on creating an experience your family can enjoy together. We’ll play, explore, run around, and have a great time while I capture the connection, joy, and little in-between moments you'll want to remember for years to come.
"Mel is FANTASTIC! She is our go to family photographer❤️ We met her back in 2023 when we took our first family pictures. Every picture captures our family so perfectly! It’s not easy to photograph children, especially babies and toddlers, but Mel somehow works her magic and gets that perfect family photo."
our go-to family photographer
"Missy was outstanding! She was fun to work with, great with our kids and dogs, and she delivered beautiful photos of our family (with all 9 of us looking good!). Would highly recommend!"
"I've used MelMarie Photography twice now and twice I've been blown away by the photos she was able to capture of my Family. I think for each photo I see, I say that it is my "Favorite Picture!"
She works great with kids and really has a great eye for what will look great in the pictures. She's also really helpful with outfit guidance and making it a really stress free experience."
What to expect for your family photo session
We'll take some time to connect so I can learn more about your family, your personalities, and the moments you want to remember most.
let's connect
one
Once your session is officially booked, I'll help you choose the perfect location, coordinate outfits, and prepare your family so your session feels easy, relaxed, and fun.
Planning Made Simple
TWO
It's time to relax and enjoy the moment. Laugh, play, cuddle, and connect with your family while I capture all the beautiful moments you share.
Time to Have Fun
THREE
Your images will be delivered in a beautiful online gallery within 2-3 weeks where you can view, download, and share your favorite moments.
GALLERY DELIVERY
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THE INVESTMENT
Return clients receive a $50 discount off any full length session
THE snapshot
$500
15 digital images of your choice
Color and black & White edits
print release
THE Storybook
$600
25 digital images of your choice
Color and black & White edits
print release
5x5 Signature photo album
one 5x7 print + two 8x10 prints
THE keepsake
$800
50 digital images of your choice
Color and black & White edits
print release
10x10 Signature photo album
one 5x7 print + two 8x10 prints
As a parent myself, I know how quickly time passes and how important it is to have printed images—so your kids can actually hold them, see them on the wall, and revisit those moments anytime. I also know how busy life gets, and that printing and preserving your family’s story can fall to the wayside. That’s why at MelMarie Photography, I handle it all for you—from capturing your session to guiding you through the process of creating beautiful, ready-to-display prints. So you can relax, knowing your memories are in good hands, from start to finish.
bringing your photos to life
I recommend bringing a few quick, easy snacks for your little ones (think dry snacks that aren't messy), water, burp cloths if you have a baby, and comfortable shoes for walking and movement between locations.
Don't worry about bringing anything else. I'll provide any props we may use, including blankets, benches, and chairs for sitting. My goal is to make the experience as easy and stress-free as possible so you can focus on enjoying time with your family.
What should we bring along for our family photo session?
I have a Family Outfit Guide blog packed with tips on how to dress your family for your session. I also provide one-on-one styling guidance to help take the guesswork out of choosing outfits.
My goal is to help you choose clothing that feels comfortable, photographs beautifully, and still feels like you. I want your family to look put together without feeling overly dressed up, uncomfortable, or stiff.
What should we wear for our family photo session?
I've photographed families all across West Bend and southeastern Wisconsin, so whatever type of location your family is looking for, we can find the perfect spot. Whether you love open fields, parks, heading downtown, or capturing moments along Lake Michigan’s lakefront, we’ll choose a location that’s meaningful to you and fits your vision. After you book, we’ll chat one-on-one, and I’ll handle all the details—so you can just show up and enjoy.
Where do family sessions take place?
I never expect kids to sit still or be perfectly posed—I know kids just want to run, play, and be themselves. That’s exactly what I want too. I focus on connecting with your child, letting them have fun, and when your child feels safe and comfortable, the best photos happen naturally.
what if my kids dont cooperate?
Life happens—especially with little ones! If you or your child is sick, something unexpected comes up, or the weather doesn't cooperate, we'll simply reschedule. I want everyone to feel their best and have the best experience possible, so just let me know as soon as you can. We'll work together to find a new date that works for both of us, often within a couple of weeks of your original session and sometimes even the very next day if schedules allow.
What happens if it rains or we need to reschedule?
Absolutely! I love including grandparents and pets in family photo sessions. Grandparents play such an important role in your family's story, and having photos with multiple generations together is something you'll treasure for years to come. Pets are family too, and they're always welcome to join in on the fun. If you're planning to bring grandparents, pets, or other extended family members, just let me know when booking so we can choose the best location and package for your group.
Can grandparents and pets join?
Most family sessions last about an hour, which gives us plenty of time for both fun, candid moments and a few classic posed photos. While an hour may sound like a long time, it's actually perfect for little ones because it gives them time to warm up, get comfortable, and simply be themselves. That's often when the genuine smiles, sweet interactions, and beautiful moments happen naturally.
how long does the session last?
Ready to plan your family session?
Family photos don't have to be stressful. I'll help with the planning, guide you throughout the session, and make sure everyone has a great time along the way.
All you need to do is show up, love on your people, and enjoy the experience. I'll take care of the rest while capturing the moments you'll want to remember for years to come.
When you're ready, click below and let's start planning your session!
