raleigh-durham family photographer

Family photography sessions in Raleigh, NC that are easy, fun, and natural. Capture authentic smiles and candid moments you’ll cherish forever.

why get family photos?

Imagine walking into your home and seeing beautiful photos of your family, capturing love, connection, and joy frozen in time. Life moves quickly—don’t let these cherished moments slip away. And wouldn’t it be amazing to finally be in the photos, instead of always being the one taking them? Let me help you create memories that include you!

A family portrait in front of a rustic wooden mill at sunset.

Family Session at Historic Yates Mill County Park in Raleigh, NC

WHy Choose Russell Captures for family portraits?

As a Raleigh family photographer — and a husband and parent myself — I understand how important it is to capture real, genuine moments. I work with families across Raleigh, Durham, and the Triangle, using a kid-friendly approach that makes every child feel comfortable and at ease.


Drawing on insights from my wife, a special education teacher, I embrace each child’s unique personality through playful interactions, favorite toys, and a relaxed, easygoing style. Your family portraits will be stress-free, natural, and full of authentic memories you’ll cherish for years to come.


Three people posing together at sunset by a lake with golden sunlight reflecting on the water.
Testimonials

Renee P.

Russell was really fantastic. He was able to capture not only the typical family shots we asked for but also our personalities with clever pictures. He suggested we take the photos near sunset at a lake and I have never had such a lovely dramatic background. I highly recommend him and will use him again soon for a 3 generation photo shoot.

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Infographic showing portrait photography workflow from questionnaire through gallery in blue and coral colors.

The process: Family portraits


We’ll work together to create images that truly capture your personality and essence, whether you prefer a formal vibe or a casual feel. My goal is to make this experience relaxed, positive, and enjoyable from start to finish.


1) Questionnaire - Once you book, I’ll send you a simple questionnaire to understand you, your group, your style preferences, and the type of location you envision for your photos.


2) Planning Together - Next, we’ll discuss your preferences in detail, confirm the location and meeting point, and I’ll provide helpful tips on what to wear and how to prepare for the session.


3) Your Session - On the day of your shoot, I’ll guide you through a relaxed photoshoot, blending posed shots with natural, candid moments. I’ll adapt to the flow of the day to capture your group’s unique dynamic.


4) Editing - For basic editing, I’ll enhance colors, lighting, and details to create polished and professional images. If you choose a session with custom retouching , I’ll also remove skin blemishes and erase unwanted items from the background to ensure a flawless finish.


5) Your Gallery - Within 2 weeks, you’ll receive a link to your beautifully edited photo gallery. From there, you can download your photos, share them, and purchase prints or other products to showcase your favorite memories.


Let’s create something amazing together!

locations


I offer a variety of location options to suit your session’s length and desired style, including picturesque local parks, a professional studio setting, or the comfort of your own home.

[Go to Locations Guide]

Basic Portraits

Essential Portraits

Deluxe Portraits

Premium Package

family sessions & packages

Sessions start at $200 for 30 minutes of relaxed, natural family photography. See all the package options below!


Basic Portraits

Essential Portraits

Deluxe Portraits

Premium Package

BASIC PORTRAITS

30 minutes - $200 + tax

Life moves fast—but you deserve photos that capture your people right now. This 30-minute session is designed for families who want fresh, meaningful portraits without the fuss.


📍 Pick the place and date that works for you

📸 Every photo we capture is yours—delivered as high-res digital downloads


What’s Included:

▸ Up to 6 people

▸ Choice of standard locations

▸ Up to 8 images individually retouched

▸ Digital download of all images taken at the session

▸ Basic retouching for a polished look

▸ 1 Outfit

▸ Online gallery included for 1 month

▸ Printing rights

▸ Prints available for additional purchase


family sessions & packages

Basic Portraits

Essential Portraits

Deluxe Portraits

Premium Package

essential portraits (Most popular)

60 minutes - $350 + tax

Looking for natural, heartfelt photos that reflect your story—just the way you are? Gathering the family for memories that last, this 60-minute professional photography session offers the time, flexibility, and ease to truly enjoy the experience.


📸 Every image captured is yours—delivered as high-resolution digital downloads

🎁 Includes a $15 print credit to turn your favorite moments into timeless keepsakes


What’s Included:

▸ Up to 10 people

▸ Choice of standard locations, your home, or a custom location

▸ Blend of posed portraits and lifestyle candids for a full, authentic gallery

▸ 15 individually retouched images

▸ Digital download of all photos from the session

▸ Basic retouching for a polished, natural finish

▸ One outfit

▸ Private online gallery hosted for 6 months

▸ Your choice of session location: your home, a favorite outdoor spot, or custom setting

▸ Studio upgrade available for $75

▸ Full printing rights included



family sessions & packages

Basic Portraits

Essential Portraits

Deluxe Portraits

Premium Package

DELUXE Portraits (best value)

90 minutes - $500 + tax

When you want more than just a photo—when you want the space to relax, connect, and create something truly memorable—this session is for you. The Deluxe Portrait offers extra time, studio access, and premium image refinement to bring out your best.


📸 All photos are yours to keep—delivered as high-resolution digital downloads

🎁 Includes a $25 print credit to preserve your favorite shots as timeless prints


What’s Included:

▸ Up to 10 people

▸ A thoughtful mix of posed portraits and natural, candid moments

▸ Up to 25 images with enhanced, custom retouching

▸ Digital download of all photos taken during your session

▸ One outfit

▸ Private online gallery hosted for a full year

▸ Flexible location options: your home, a favorite outdoor setting, or a custom spot

▸ Studio session included (a $75 value)

▸ Full printing rights

▸ $25 gift card to order prints through your personal gallery


family sessions & packages

Basic Portraits

Essential Portraits

Deluxe Portraits

Premium Package

premium package

120 minutes - $750 + tax

Looking for a portrait experience that goes all in? The Premium Portrait Package is your all-access, all-out photo session—perfect for families who want time, variety, and a stunning gallery of professionally retouched images and prints. With extra time for outfit changes, multiple looks, and a complete print package included, this is your one-and-done session for lasting memories.


📸 Every image from your session is yours—high-resolution digital downloads included

🖼️ Comes with a full print package valued at $179.50—so your favorites come to life on paper, not just screen


What’s Included:

▸ Up to 10 people

▸ Up to 35 images individually retouched

▸ Digital download of all images taken during the session

▸ A mix of traditional group arrangements and lifestyle candid moments

▸ More time for additional outfit changes and a variety of group combinations

▸ Custom retouching to bring out your best features

▸ Up to 2 Outfits

▸ Online gallery included for 2 years

▸ Choice of standard locations, your home, a custom location, or in studio ($75 value)

▸ Printing rights

▸ A complete print package ($179.50 value)

• 2 - 11 x 14” prints

• 4 - 8 x 10” prints

• 4 - 5 x 7” prints

• 1 - 16 x 20” large-format print

• 8 wallet-size prints

Preserve Your Memories with Stunning Prints and Keepsakes


Your photos deserve to be more than just digital files—they should be displayed and enjoyed every day! After your session, your online gallery will give you access to my store, where you can transform your favorite moments into stunning prints and premium products. Choose from classic prints starting at just $3, elegant fine art prints, or mounted options for a polished finish. Want to make a statement? Explore our wall art collection, including canvas prints, metal prints, and framed pieces. Turn your memories into timeless treasures—shop directly from your gallery!

Living room interior with large framed photograph above gray sectional sofa.

FAQ

What should we wear for our family photos?


Coordinating colors work well without being too matchy-matchy. Neutral tones or soft pops of color often photograph beautifully. Avoid busy patterns or logos, and consider the season and location when choosing outfits. I’m happy to offer guidance!

Where will the session take place?


I offer a variety of locations, including scenic parks, urban backdrops, or even the comfort of your own home. We can discuss what works best for your family’s style and preferences.

How long will the session take?


Session lengths depend on the package you choose. Full, Deluxe, and Premium family sessions typically last 60–90 minutes, while Express sessions are around 20–30 minutes.

FAQ

What if my kids don’t cooperate during the session?


Don’t worry—it happens! I take a relaxed, playful approach to keep kids engaged and capture their personalities naturally. We’ll go with the flow and make the experience fun for everyone.

Can we include extended family members?


Absolutely! I offer sessions designed for large groups that can include grandparents, cousins, and other extended family members. Let’s make sure everyone is part of the memories!

Can we bring our pets?


Yes! Pets are part of the family too. Let me know ahead of time if you’d like to include them, and I’ll provide tips to ensure a smooth session.

FAQ

How far in advance should we book?


I recommend booking at least a few weeks in advance to secure your preferred date, especially during busy seasons like spring and fall.

How long will it take to receive our photos?


You’ll receive your edited images within 2–3 weeks. I’ll also provide a preview within a few days to give you a sneak peek.

What if the weather is bad?


If your outdoor session is affected by rain or poor weather, we’ll reschedule to the next available date that works for you.

FAQ

What if we need to cancel or reschedule?


Life happens, and I completely understand! If you need to cancel or reschedule, please let me know before I travel to the session location to avoid any rescheduling fees. I’m happy to work with you to find a new date that fits your schedule.

What if we’re camera-shy?


That’s okay! My sessions are relaxed and easygoing, so you’ll feel comfortable in no time. I’ll guide you through poses and also capture candid moments that reflect your family’s natural connection.

Can we purchase prints or photo products?


Yes! Your session includes access to an online gallery where you can order high-quality prints, canvases, and other keepsakes to showcase your photos.

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Say hello.

Let's work together


If you’re unsure which family photography session is the best fit for your needs, I’m here to help! Whether you’re considering a traditional session, something more candid, or a session tailored for a large group, feel free to reach out. I’ll guide you through the options and help you choose the perfect session to capture your family’s unique story.