San Mateo County photography services and investment

Absolutely. I love capturing moments with your full family, including your pets. Just make sure someone can help manage them during the session, especially around young children or newborns.

Start with what makes you feel confident and comfortable. I recommend choosing your outfit first Mama then coordinating the rest of your family’s look around you. If you love bold tones, like mustard yellow or denim blue, pair them with soft neutrals. Earthy colors and textures photograph beautifully.

For outdoor sessions, the most flattering light is usually 1 to 2 hours before sunset, when everything feels soft and warm.

Morning sessions can also work beautifully, especially 1 to 2 hours after sunrise. This is often a great option for families with young children and earlier bedtimes.

For indoor sessions, mid to late morning is typically ideal, when natural light fills your home most evenly.

We will work together to find a location that fits your family’s vibe. It could be your home or one of the many gorgeous natural spots around the San Francisco Peninsula. I love recommending hidden gems with beautiful light and space to play.
For newborn sessions we will shoot at home using the best natural light in your space.

Your child is perfect just as they are.

I never expect kids to pose perfectly. In fact, the magic often happens when they’re simply being themselves. Whether they’re striking a pose, being silly, or off exploring, we’ll follow their lead and let their personality shine.

Throughout the session, I’ll guide you with poses and prompts, but more than anything, I’ll create space for your family’s connection to unfold naturally.

To help things go smoothly, make sure your little one is well-rested and has had a snack and some water. Letting them know ahead of time that a kind, friendly photographer will be joining can also help them feel more comfortable from the very beginning.

You will receive your private online gallery within 1 week. If you need them sooner you can add expedited 2-day turnaround for an additional $100.

I always monitor the weather and will reach out if we need to reschedule due to rain or extreme conditions. If someone in your family is sick we can easily find a new date that works. Your comfort and health always come first.

Absolutely! I am happy to add professional headshots for $100 per person. You will receive 3 or more fully edited images per person with expert posing lighting and a polished finish. These are perfect for work or social profiles.

I typically recommend scheduling maternity sessions between 30–35 weeks, when your belly is beautifully round and you still feel comfortable moving with ease. However every pregnancy is different and I am happy to photograph you any time during your second or third trimester.

I recommend scheduling newborn sessions within the first 3 months. This allows you to choose what you want to remember most, whether that is a sleepier newborn in the first 2 weeks or a more alert baby in the first few months. I am always flexible and happy to photograph your baby at any age during this season. When booking, we will choose a tentative date and adjust as needed once your baby arrives.

A 50% non-refundable deposit is due when you book your session. The remaining balance is due one week before your session date.

If you have more questions, please contact me directly at hello@ellobellephotography.com.