What to Expect During a Portrait Session / Lehigh Valley Family Photographer

Hi, I’m Becky, owner and photographer of Rebecca Groller Photography in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. As a Lehigh Valley family photographer, I have worked with hundreds of families across the region capturing portraits of babies, children, and families during some of life’s most meaningful seasons.

For many families, portrait sessions only happen every few years. Because of that, it is completely normal to feel a mix of excitement and uncertainty about what the experience will be like.

One of the most common questions I hear before a session is, “What should we expect?” My goal is always to make the experience relaxed, organized, and enjoyable for everyone involved, especially the kids.

Whether your session takes place in my Bethlehem studio or at one of the many beautiful outdoor locations throughout the Lehigh Valley, I guide you through the entire process so you can focus on enjoying time with your family.

Here is a step by step look at what you can expect during your portrait session with Rebecca Groller Photography.

Arriving at Your Portrait Session with a Lehigh Valley Family Photographer

When you arrive for your session, we begin by taking a few minutes to settle in and get comfortable.

I greet your family and spend a few moments chatting with the kids so they have a chance to warm up to me before we begin. This small window of time makes a big difference and helps everyone feel more relaxed.

We also do a quick last minute checklist together. I check outfits to make sure buttons are closed and clothing is sitting properly. I may ask parents to wipe little faces if needed and remove items from pockets or wrists so they do not appear in the photos. We also do a quick hair check and talk through any specific photo requests you may have.

If we are meeting in my Bethlehem studio, I will show you where the bathroom is located and where you can find drinks and snacks.

For outdoor sessions, I give a quick overview of the location and the areas we will be using during the session so you know what to expect.

These first few minutes help everyone ease into the experience.

How I Guide You During the Session

Many families worry about posing or not knowing what to do in front of the camera. The good news is that you do not need to worry about that at all. I guide you through the entire process.

At each location or setup, I begin with a few classic poses to create beautiful portraits. After that, we move into more natural interactions so you end up with a variety of images.

Everything we do during the session is based on the children and how they are interacting.

If a child is shy at first, we start with more interaction between parents and children. As they warm up, we gradually move toward more camera aware portraits.

If kids have lots of energy, we lean into that. We run, jump, sing, tickle, hug, and play. Moving with kids instead of trying to control them helps keep the experience fun and natural while still capturing beautiful images.

How Long Portrait Sessions Last

Most portrait sessions last about 45 to 60 minutes.

I'm not watching a clock. If children need a quick break, we take one. I also build extra time into my schedule whenever possible so sessions never feel rushed.

Creating a calm and relaxed environment is one of the most important parts of my job. When families feel comfortable, it allows me to capture genuine moments and authentic expressions.

Common Worries Families Have

Over the years, I have noticed a few concerns come up often before portrait sessions. The good news is that most of these are easy to manage.

"What if my child does not cooperate?"

The best way to help your child have a successful session is choosing a time of day that works well for them. I recommend avoiding nap time whenever possible.

Bringing a few small snacks can also help keep kids happy and avoid hunger related meltdowns.

"What should we wear?"

Choosing outfits can sometimes feel overwhelming, but I make sure my clients have plenty of guidance.

Every family receives a session guide with helpful clothing tips. I also provide access to an online style guide that includes outfit ideas and links to clothing options from various stores.

Clients are always welcome to text or email photos of potential outfits, and I am happy to help you decide what will photograph best.

"What if the weather does not cooperate?"

For outdoor sessions, we keep an eye on the weather leading up to your session. If there is a chance of inclement weather, I will reach out to give you a heads up.

If necessary, we may reschedule the day before or the morning of your session. I will reschedule outdoor sessions due to precipitation as well as extreme temperatures.

Studio sessions may be rescheduled in the case of unsafe travel conditions or power outages.

"What if someone gets sick?"

If anyone in your family is sick, please reach out to reschedule. I am always happy to accommodate this.

In my experience, even a slight cold can make children uncomfortable and not at their best for photos. I want everyone to feel good and enjoy the experience.

After Your Portrait Session

Once your session is complete, the excitement of seeing your photos begins.

Your proof gallery will be delivered within two weeks of your session. At that time you can review your images and select the number of digital files included in your package as your favorites.

You will also have the option to purchase additional digitals or place any print orders.

Customer service is my number one priority. I am here to support you every step of the way. I love assisting clients with planning and my goal is always a stress free and enjoyable experience.

Planning Your Family Portrait Session in the Lehigh Valley

If you are thinking about scheduling family portraits, working with an experienced Lehigh Valley family photographer can make the entire process feel relaxed and enjoyable. From planning outfits to guiding you during your session and helping you select your favorite images afterward, my goal is always to create a stress free experience for every family I photograph.

Portrait sessions are about more than just taking pictures. They are about preserving this season of your family's story.

If you are ready to plan your next portrait session in Bethlehem or anywhere in the Lehigh Valley, I would love to help you capture these memories.

Ready to Schedule Your Portrait Session?

If you are planning a family portrait session in the Lehigh Valley, I would be honored to work with you. Whether you are looking for updated family photos, milestone portraits for your children, or a relaxed outdoor session, I am here to guide you through every step of the process.

Whether your session takes place in my Bethlehem studio or outdoors at one of the beautiful locations throughout the Lehigh Valley, I guide families through every step of the process. You can learn more about my family photography sessions in the Lehigh Valley here.