the portfolio
Hello there! I'm so excited you’ve come to my page and am so thrilled to learn more about you and your extended family members!
All extended family lifestyle photography sessions are done at a gorgeous outdoor location of your choice. I have plenty of recommendations for the most beautiful locations to choose from; mountains, scenic views, rolling hills, beaches are only a few of the locations I offer! You’ll have full access to my client closet which includes pieces for women, girls and babies.
San Jose Family Photographer
yuki + phillip
Lynna is incredible! From our first contact, she was friendly and super organized. All the prep materials she sent to me were beautifully branded and exquisite - a reflection of the care & attention she invests into her artistry & work from the start of the journey to the final photos. I felt so taken care of & every interaction just made me even more excited for our maternity shoot.
Our gallery was ready in less time than we expected (such a delightful surprise) & the photos took our breath away. They were also a lovely blend of candid shots plus other poses that Lynna had guided us with in the day of. I love that when she had guided us, she kept it fun and encouraged us to just be ourselves while making suggestions for what would make a good photo composition.
I wholeheartedly recommend Lynna and cannot wait to take more family pictures with her in the future!
mj + jeff
Lynna was a dream to work with from the initial inquiry to the day of the photoshoot. We cannot praise her enough! We brought our puppy with us and even he felt comfortable throughout the photoshoot! She genuinely loves to listen to your story and captures precious moments to reflect who you are. She felt like a childhood friend and we had a lot of fun with her - it has been so long since we laughed that much!
She is also very mindful of Covid and wore a mask the entire time, which we really appreciated. We admire not only her breathtaking photography style, but also her warm personality. She is truly a wonderful soul and it is hard to come across such people nowadays, so we are grateful that we met her. We look forward to many more photoshoots with her!
the andrakin family
Lynna went above and beyond, to say the least! From the moment I contacted her to the day she returned the photos, she remained extremely responsive, personable, and knowledgeable!
Lynna makes a great effort to ensure the day of the shoot is as perfect as possible, including offering wardrobe, props, and suggesting breathtaking locations!
On the day of our shoot, we arrived about 30 minutes early and to our surprise Lynna was already waiting for us. We were extremely thankful because, on this particular day, Karl the Fog decided to join us earlier than expected which did not deter her at all! She knew exactly how to position us to capture the dreamiest of shots. Her warm demeanor helped us get comfortable in front of the camera, and the pictures really show it! We are simply in awe of the beautiful photos she produced! I am so very glad we booked with Lynna and I would suggest her to any of my family and friends, hands down!
Katrina + aj
This was me and my fiancé's first time taking photographs with a photographer and Lynna was just the absolute best person to work with. We fell in love with her overall aesthetic when we discovered her website. Her kindness and professionalism when organizing the the photoshoot as well as answering our questions was amazing and she made things so clear and gets tasks done in a timely manner. She helped pick out our location and we are so glad we went with her recommendation.
She is so remarkably talented when it comes to photographing really special moments and choosing scenery and lighting that really emphasizes the feelings she captures in her pictures. The final pictures came out more amazing than I could have imagined and I'm happy with the quality of our engagement pictures. I'll definitely reach back out for any future photoshoots.
the ozawa family
Lynna recently spent an hour photographing my extended family. We had a BIG group and 3 rambunctious toddlers on the verge of melting down. She has patient, kind, and extremely accommodating. We really appreciate photographers who make us feel relaxed and comfortable. It really showed because the photos turned out incredible. We're so excited to share them out for our Christmas cards this year.
Few highlights of her service:
Client closet: this was the most valuable thing for busy moms. It saved me hours of shopping because all of her options were so gorgeous and fitting for the color palette we wanted to go for. Client handbook: this handbook is what helped my family achieve the perfect color palette. That was the most stressful part for everyone but once they saw the color swatches we were able to pull the outfits together. Very quick turn around for photographs. She was very prompt and timely and the delivery method allowed for all of us to view together. Thanks for a wonderful session, will definitely be scheduling future shoots with Lynna.
Samantha + Jay
If you are considering doing a photoshoot with Lynna Curtis Photography, this is your
sign to DO IT! I did a couples shoot with my boyfriend and we had the best experience ever. Lynna is detail oriented, patient, sweet and so professional! She made us feel so comfortable and at ease. I love how Lynna had so many pose ideas for us and captured our emotions perfectly! She also knows all the best locations for photo shoots & has a detailed guide to prepare you for your photoshoot. 10/10 experience, we are so in love with our photos, all thanks to Lynna!
The Balcazar Family
Our family had such a great time working with lynna. beforehand, she was super helpful with helping me pick out the different outfits and offering ideas for each of us. I love the fact that she has a client closet, such an awesome idea. She has SO many dresses to choose from, it was so hard for me to choose one. She brought ALL of my top picks, so I was able to try them on before the photoshoot.
I also adore how she provides a littles client closet too, so cute! During the photoshoot she was super friendly and made us all feel comfortable. she worked so well with our baby girl and our dog Axel - even when they both wouldn't keep still. SO IN LOVE with all the photos we’ve received from Lynna. As our first family photoshoot, I'm glad we have all these precious memories to always look back on.
love notes
testimonials
I know how difficult it can be to coordinate so many schedules together for a single session, so props to you for making it happen!
Extended family sessions are extremely fast paced and chaotic in the best way. Since I won’t know who everyone is at the start of the session, it’s always beneficial for me to have someone help me group family members accordingly!
San Jose Family Photographer
I encourage scheduling your extended family session between anywhere from 2-5 months out depending on the season. I typically book out 2 months in advance with winter and spring seasons, and 4-5 months in advance for the fall season. Fall is the most chaotic time for us photographers and I get booked up fairly quickly far before this season, so don’t hesitate on scheduling your session as soon as possible!
During your session, you can expect to spend one authentic and seamless hour with me. This provides enough time to take a quick snack break, do one mid-session outfit change, and move throughout the session at a comfortable pace.
Feel free to contact me for any questions, and I’d be more than happy to be of service!
xoxo, Lynna
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gallery
01
inquiry
02
contract
03
planning
04
session
what to expect
the booking timeline
family session
- Up to 1 hour of shooting time beginning at sunrise or sunset ONLY
- Up to 5 family members
- Private online gallery
- 50+ high resolution digital images
- Full access to client closet
heck yes, i'm in!!
extended family session
- Up to 1 hour of shooting time beginning at sunrise or sunset ONLY
- Over 10+ family members
- Private online gallery
- 50+ high resolution digital images
- Full access to client closet
LET'S DO IT!!
Prices are subject to change without notice if San Jose family photography session is not booked within 14 days of receiving price quote/inquiring about rates.
Please note that session dates are not held without a signed contract and retainer fee. Contract and 50% non-refundable retainer fee must be paid within 24 hours, or your time slot will be forfeited.
A travel fee will be applied if the session location exceeds the complimentary 30 miles of travel for the photographer based in San Jose, CA.
Recent Blog Posts
13 How do I ensure my slot is confirmed for my photo session?
12 How many family members are allowed for shoots?
11 Do you retouch photos?
10 How do we get our photos?
09 Can you help me figure out what to wear?
03 How far are you booked out?
02 Can we print from you?
01 So you’re based in San Jose, do you travel to other places?
08 Can I have the original photos in addition to my final gallery?
07 How do we book you?
06 Do you allow fur babies?
05 What is the average investment clients make?
04 When do you start your sessions?
San Jose Family Photographer
13 How do I ensure my slot is confirmed for my photo session?
12 How many family members are allowed for shoots?
11 Do you retouch photos?
10 How do we get our photos?
09 Can you help me figure out what to wear?
03 How far are you booked out?
02 Can we print from you?
01 So you’re based in San Jose, do you travel to other places?
08 Can I have the original photos in addition to my final gallery?
07 How do we book you?
06 Do you allow fur babies?
05 What is the average investment clients make?
04 When do you start your sessions?
Yes, I do! Any San Jose family photography session outside of my complimentary 30 mile radius will be considered a travel session. I always have a ton of recommendations for locations inside and outside of my area, just let me know what you want and I'll make it happen! I'm always down to travel wherever you want your vision to be! (:
13 How do I ensure my slot is confirmed for my photo session?
12 How many family members are allowed for shoots?
11 Do you retouch photos?
10 How do we get our photos?
09 Can you help me figure out what to wear?
03 How far are you booked out?
02 Can we print from you?
01 So you’re based in San Jose, do you travel to other places?
08 Can I have the original photos in addition to my final gallery?
07 How do we book you?
06 Do you allow fur babies?
05 What is the average investment clients make?
04 When do you start your sessions?
All photos in your gallery are high resolution digital photos that are immediately ready to print. I highly recommend that you purchase any prints, wall art and canvases directly through me. Once you place your order, your photos are sent to a professional print lab partner where it gets printed, packaged and shipped. t’s so important that your photos are printed using the highest standards to preserve the color, definition and overall quality!
13 How do I ensure my slot is confirmed for my photo session?
12 How many family members are allowed for shoots?
11 Do you retouch photos?
10 How do we get our photos?
09 Can you help me figure out what to wear?
03 How far are you booked out?
02 Can we print from you?
01 So you’re based in San Jose, do you travel to other places?
08 Can I have the original photos in addition to my final gallery?
07 How do we book you?
06 Do you allow fur babies?
05 What is the average investment clients make?
04 When do you start your sessions?
I typically book 2-3 months out - depending on the time of year. In the fall, I am usually booked out 4-6 months (people love booking early for Christmas cards!), so my availability is limited. I can only book a number of sessions each month to ensure I don't overbook and burn out.
13 How do I ensure my slot is confirmed for my photo session?
12 How many family members are allowed for shoots?
11 Do you retouch photos?
10 How do we get our photos?
09 Can you help me figure out what to wear?
03 How far are you booked out?
02 Can we print from you?
01 So you’re based in San Jose, do you travel to other places?
08 Can I have the original photos in addition to my final gallery?
07 How do we book you?
06 Do you allow fur babies?
05 What is the average investment clients make?
04 When do you start your sessions?
I begin all my sessions one hour prior to sunset or at the start of sunrise. This is known as "golden hour" and will provide the best diffused, golden lighting. Shooting at time before golden hour, would not be ideal because of the harsh lighting and shadows.
13 How do I ensure my slot is confirmed for my photo session?
12 How many family members are allowed for shoots?
11 Do you retouch photos?
10 How do we get our photos?
09 Can you help me figure out what to wear?
03 How far are you booked out?
02 Can we print from you?
01 So you’re based in San Jose, do you travel to other places?
08 Can I have the original photos in addition to my final gallery?
07 How do we book you?
06 Do you allow fur babies?
05 What is the average investment clients make?
04 When do you start your sessions?
It all depends on what my clients are looking for specifically. My clients average investment for their San Jose family photos is anywhere from $1000 - $2500. I do offer payment plans after the nonrefundable 50% retainer fee is paid, so clients are able to make small payments up until their session!
13 How do I ensure my slot is confirmed for my photo session?
12 How many family members are allowed for shoots?
11 Do you retouch photos?
10 How do we get our photos?
09 Can you help me figure out what to wear?
03 How far are you booked out?
02 Can we print from you?
01 So you’re based in San Jose, do you travel to other places?
08 Can I have the original photos in addition to my final gallery?
07 How do we book you?
06 Do you allow fur babies?
05 What is the average investment clients make?
04 When do you start your sessions?
Yes, absolutely! I'm a huge animal lover, so please bring your fur babies along for the adventure! There are locations that do not allow pets... however, I can scout a location that allows them! (:
13 How do I ensure my slot is confirmed for my photo session?
12 How many family members are allowed for shoots?
11 Do you retouch photos?
10 How do we get our photos?
09 Can you help me figure out what to wear?
03 How far are you booked out?
02 Can we print from you?
01 So you’re based in San Jose, do you travel to other places?
08 Can I have the original photos in addition to my final gallery?
07 How do we book you?
06 Do you allow fur babies?
05 What is the average investment clients make?
04 When do you start your sessions?
Fill out that contact form! After you reach out, we'll discuss dates and locations that are still open for booking. Once all details are discussed, I'll send over a contract to get you on my calendar!
13 How do I ensure my slot is confirmed for my photo session?
12 How many family members are allowed for shoots?
11 Do you retouch photos?
10 How do we get our photos?
09 Can you help me figure out what to wear?
03 How far are you booked out?
02 Can we print from you?
01 So you’re based in San Jose, do you travel to other places?
08 Can I have the original photos in addition to my final gallery?
07 How do we book you?
06 Do you allow fur babies?
05 What is the average investment clients make?
04 When do you start your sessions?
No, I do not deliver RAW or unedited files as they are not an accurate representation of my final work.
13 How do I ensure my slot is confirmed for my photo session?
12 How many family members are allowed for shoots?
11 Do you retouch photos?
10 How do we get our photos?
09 Can you help me figure out what to wear?
03 How far are you booked out?
02 Can we print from you?
01 So you’re based in San Jose, do you travel to other places?
08 Can I have the original photos in addition to my final gallery?
07 How do we book you?
06 Do you allow fur babies?
05 What is the average investment clients make?
04 When do you start your sessions?
Yes, of course! Feel free to ask me for any help. I provide access to my client closet which offers pieces for moms and children! All my clients receive a prep guide (family, newborn, couples) depending on their session type. You'll be able to find information on what to what to wear/how to style for your session. I want you to feel comfortable during your session!
13 How do I ensure my slot is confirmed for my photo session?
12 How many family members are allowed for shoots?
11 Do you retouch photos?
10 How do we get our photos?
09 Can you help me figure out what to wear?
03 How far are you booked out?
02 Can we print from you?
01 So you’re based in San Jose, do you travel to other places?
08 Can I have the original photos in addition to my final gallery?
07 How do we book you?
06 Do you allow fur babies?
05 What is the average investment clients make?
04 When do you start your sessions?
You will receive an email containing a link to your private online gallery. Your online gallery will have a password that only you will know, so no one else may access it. All images in your gallery will be high resolution, which will be perfect for printing right away!
13 How do I ensure my slot is confirmed for my photo session?
12 How many family members are allowed for shoots?
11 Do you retouch photos?
10 How do we get our photos?
09 Can you help me figure out what to wear?
03 How far are you booked out?
02 Can we print from you?
01 So you’re based in San Jose, do you travel to other places?
08 Can I have the original photos in addition to my final gallery?
07 How do we book you?
06 Do you allow fur babies?
05 What is the average investment clients make?
04 When do you start your sessions?
During my editing process, I make sure to focus and enhance on what is already there. I will remove any background objects that may not complement the photo well. I do NOT change body shapes, do head swaps or anything unnatural.
13 How do I ensure my slot is confirmed for my photo session?
12 How many family members are allowed for shoots?
11 Do you retouch photos?
10 How do we get our photos?
09 Can you help me figure out what to wear?
03 How far are you booked out?
02 Can we print from you?
01 So you’re based in San Jose, do you travel to other places?
08 Can I have the original photos in addition to my final gallery?
07 How do we book you?
06 Do you allow fur babies?
05 What is the average investment clients make?
04 When do you start your sessions?
There are up to five family members allowed for standard San Jose family photography sessions! Any session that includes over five family members will be considered an extended family session!
13 How do I ensure my slot is confirmed for my photo session?
12 How many family members are allowed for shoots?
11 Do you retouch photos?
10 How do we get our photos?
09 Can you help me figure out what to wear?
03 How far are you booked out?
02 Can we print from you?
01 So you’re based in San Jose, do you travel to other places?
08 Can I have the original photos in addition to my final gallery?
07 How do we book you?
06 Do you allow fur babies?
05 What is the average investment clients make?
04 When do you start your sessions?
Once you receive your contract, please sign and pay the retainer fee within 24 hours. Once I have received payment and a signed contract, I will send a session confirmation email and a prep guide!
frequently asked questions
03 How can I prepare for my session?
02 What should I wear?
01 What happens if my child isn’t cooperating?
05 What is the average investment clients make?
04 How many photos will we receive?
It all depends on what my clients are looking for specifically. My clients average investment is anywhere from $1100 - $4500. I do offer payment plans after the nonrefundable 50% retainer fee is paid, so clients are able to make small payments up until their session!
You’ll receive a minimum of 50 of the best photos from your session. Every session and flow is different, but this is a solid number I can provide!
All clients will receive a prep guide made specifically for their session type after booking. You can find more information on what to expect after booking, how to prepare for your session, what color palettes to wear, how to coordinate pieces for your session, what to expect after your session, recommendations on printing your photos, etc.
I encourage you to wear whatever makes you feel the most comfortable, and beautiful. Clients will almost always use a client closet piece, or rent a gorgeous gown from one of my recommendations in my prep guide. I’m always here to help coordinate pieces that would photograph best with my style and your location of choice!
I’ve had so many family sessions with my own two children so I totally understand this concern. I always say that children run the sessions because we’ll go by their mood and willingness to take photos.
If your child wants to go explore and discover the area, we’ll go do that. If your child wants to sit in the sand and play, we’ll absolutely do that. I wouldn’t recommend forcing your child to sit and stay still for me to take photos; I want to capture their personality and how they function during this chapter of their life! Let children be children and the rest can go from there.
San Jose Family Photographer
frequently asked questions
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