• Home
    • All Sessions
    • Headshot Sessions
    • Specialty Sessions
    • Documentary Family Sessions
  • Families
    • About Branding
    • Collections
    • Branding Process
    • Video Storytelling
  • Gallery
    • Testimonials
    • Locations
    • Prints
    • Albums
    • Family Blog
    • Branding Blog
  • FAQs
    • Contact - Families/Newborns
    • Contact Branding
Menu

Ginny Filer Photography

Street Address
Silver Spring, MD
Phone Number

Your Custom Text Here

Ginny Filer Photography

  • Home
  • Sessions
    • All Sessions
    • Headshot Sessions
    • Specialty Sessions
    • Documentary Family Sessions
  • Families
  • Branding
    • About Branding
    • Collections
    • Branding Process
    • Video Storytelling
  • Gallery
  • Info
    • Testimonials
    • Locations
    • Prints
    • Albums
  • Blog
    • Family Blog
    • Branding Blog
  • FAQs
  • Contact
    • Contact - Families/Newborns
    • Contact Branding

"I Just Want 1 Family Photo" | Do I need a whole private session?

December 13, 2024 Ginny Thomas

I completely understand wanting 'just one perfect photo' of your family—that’s often the image that gets framed, shared, and treasured for years to come. However, capturing that magical shot requires the space and time of a full session to GET to that one amazing photo. Here’s why:

1. Kids Need Time to Warm Up

Little ones (and even adults!) take time to feel comfortable in front of the camera. A full session gives everyone the chance to relax, play, and let their true personalities shine through. It can be a lot to have someone in your face with a camera (no matter how fun, friendly or goofy I can be!). If kids aren’t into it, there is no faking it.

2. Candid Moments Make the Best Memories

Some of the most beloved family photos happen in the unscripted moments—the giggles, the shared looks, or even the chaotic, silly times. These moments can’t be rushed, and they often turn out to be the most authentic and cherished.

3. Variety Helps You Choose

While you may be envisioning one 'perfect photo,' every family is unique. A full session lets us try different angles, groupings, and settings, giving you plenty of options to find that image (and maybe a few others) that perfectly reflect your family.

4. It’s About the Experience

A full session isn’t just about the photos; it’s about creating a fun, relaxed experience for your family. Kids have time to explore, parents can relax, and we can capture the genuine love and connection that makes your family special. I guarantee they won’t be asked to “sit and smile” for an hour. It’s time to breath, get into the moment, have fun and be themselves.

4. Location, LOCATION, LOCATION

Private sessions are where you get to find the date and time just for your family, and you get to pick the location that is best- whether that’s based on convenience, proximity to water, bathrooms, treats, etc or a place that has special meaning. I’ve got a ton of suggestions, but always open to what is the best fit for your private session.


That one photo you’re dreaming of? It often comes when we’re least expecting it—after the warm-up, during a candid laugh, or when everyone is completely at ease. Let’s work together to create memories that feel as good as they look!

In Family Tags digital photography, Washington DC Family Photography, Washington DC Family Photographer, Maryland Family Photography, Maryland Family Photographer, Northern Virginia Family Photography, Northern Virginia Family Photographer, DMV family photographer, family sessions, family session, family portraits, families, family photographer, kids, children, children photos, children photography, Northern Virginia Children Photography, Northern Virginia Family photography
← Winter Sessions | 2025 Winter Photo Session ideasBaby W | In Studio Lifestyle Newborn Session →

Ginny is a branding, family, newborn photographer in the Maryland/DC area.
Read more...

GFP_Socialicons-01.png
GFP_Socialicons-02.png
GFP_Socialicons-03.png

instagram

Trying to decide between a full session or a mini session?

Here’s the quick guide:

• Want time to warm up, play, and soak in the moment? Full session.
• Need 2-3 updated shots or working with a tight schedule? Mini session.
• S
🍁 They're HERE! 🍁
Fall Mini Sessions + Private Sessions are officially LIVE and ready for booking! 🎉✨

These are some of my most-loved sessions of the year—full of golden light, crunchy leaves, cozy moments, and just enough chaos to make mag
It had been nearly five years since I last saw the Watson family—and let me tell you, this reunion in the studio was so fun!

Vanessa kicked things off with a little glow-up from the ever-talented @mizchynuhdoll , and from there, the session wa
🍁 FALL IS COMING... and so are the dates! 

I know, I know… it’s still 90 degrees out, but trust me, those golden leaves and cozy sweaters are just around the corner 🍂✨

📸 Fall Mini Session AND Private Session dates drop in ONE WEEK a
Just the sweetest studio session with Naomi and her 5-year-old daughter, Clara 💕

We packed so much love, laughter, and cuteness into such a short time.

Mommy and Me sessions like this remind me how important it is to freeze these everyday moments
📸 Want to take your own family beach photos while you're on vacation?

You totally can — and you don’t need a fancy camera or perfectly coordinated outfits to get photos you’ll actually love. Some of the best photos come from the i
Summer storms can be unpleasant, but man, these rainbows are so impressive!! I love that we get so many good ones from our back deck!! 🌈🌦️
Welcome to the world, baby E! 💛

This sweet boy was a total rockstar during his lifestyle newborn session, so calm, so snuggly, and already so very loved. 

These quiet little moments? They're everything. And I’m so grateful to help families f
 

gallery      sessions      info      about      blog      contact   
© Ginny Filer Photography | Site design by Casi Long Design