Family portraits
because these are the days
Los Angeles Family Photographer
These are the days – the good ol’ ones, the ones that everyone says will go by fast, the ones you’ll laugh over, and cry over, the ones you’ll think of when you think back.
I promise, you’ll never regret taking the time to capture your family – those crazy people you do it all for – as they are right now.
Now booking summer beach sessions
June-August beach sessions are now booking.
There’s something about being at the beach that relaxes everyone.
Add Malibu golden hour light and every frame has a little magic built in. I’ll guide your family through the whole thing — wardrobe help, direction during the session, the works.
Availability is limited to low-tide evenings, and weekend dates tend to book in advance.
Now booking spring wildflower sessions
April & May garden sessions are now booking.
This short spring window is one many of my families wait for each year. The garden fills with vibrant wildflowers, and the weather is mild and comfortable — one of the most beautiful times for outdoor family portraits.
Availability is limited during this seasonal window, and weekend dates tend to book in advance.
LA Family Portraits
So how do we make it painless?
Parenting is hard; let’s make this part easy.
From the day you reach out to the day you receive your finished portraits, I’m there to lead the way.
Before your session, I’ll help you style the entire family, whether that means helping you choose from the studio wardrobe collection or shopping with you online.
During the session, I keep things fun and fast-paced for the kids and give you plenty of direction so that you’re never left wondering where to look or what to do.
We’ll capture family portraits where everyone is looking at the camera and looking their best as well as plenty of natural interaction and candid family shots.
As the kids say… easy peasy lemon squeezy.
“Booking our session with Ariel was easily one of the best family decisions we've ever made!
Ariel captured ‘us’ in the most beautiful collection of photos. She is an amazing professional who understands children and family dynamics, which is probably a factor that separates her portfolio from the crowd and gives clients such beautiful and authentic results.
She’s our new family super hero and we have been bragging about her to everyone!
OLIVIER ROURE
Family photos that you'll love more each year
How it works:
Reach out
Making the time to find a photographer was the hard part. All you have to do now is head to the contact page to fill out my form or schedule a call and we can get started.
Get ready
After you book your session, I’ll send you a prep guide so you know just what to expect. I’ll also give you hands-on help putting together your family’s wardrobe.
Session day
During your session, I’ll give you lots of direction and keep things light and playful for the kids. I have lots of tricks up my sleeve and unlimited patience.
Relive it
Just a week after your session, you’ll receive a slideshow of your images and choose your collection. Fair warning… your kids will want to watch the slideshow on repeat.
Immediate family is included in all my sessions! Interested in something else?
Family Photoshoot Locations
I serve LA and the surrounding areas.
Choose from these favorite locations:
The Beach
The best family photos happen when everyone forgets they’re being photographed — and nothing loosens people up like a day at the beach. My job is to keep things fun from there: give the kids something to do, let the silly moments happen, and capture the real stuff in between. Add Malibu golden hour light and a location with open sand, rocky bluffs, and grassy outcrops, and every frame has a little magic built in.
The Garden
Tucked away in Pasadena, this hidden gem spans just 3 easy-to-navigate acres and is full of variety — wild grasses, manicured courtyards, and seasonal blooms. It’s a great fit for families who want something that feels relaxed and natural rather than stiff or posed. There’s plenty of room for little ones to explore, and the mix of landscapes means you get a varied gallery in a shorter period of time (while your kids are still having fun). Sessions are photographed at golden hour, when the light is warm and flattering for the whole family.
Studio Family Sessions
Some families prefer something a little more classic. The studio setting keeps the focus entirely on you — clean, timeless images that aren’t tied to a season or a location.
Custom Family Sessions
Looking to photograph your family session in your own backyard or another location special to you? Get in touch to discuss your vision for a custom session.
Studio Wardrobe
No need to stress over what your family will wear.
When you book your session, you’ll receive a guide with detailed wardrobe guidance to get you started.
Your session includes use of the studio wardrobe collection, which is full of great options for women and girls.
And best of all? I’ll personally help you style your family and source any missing pieces.
Fine Art Prints
You’ll want to see these photos IRL, not just on a screen. With me, you get digitals, no matter what. You can do whatever you want with them.
But, together, we can print heirloom quality artwork. Every image collection includes both digital files and a credit to spend in your gallery store. I’ve spent years testing products through professional labs so you don’t have to waste time researching the best of the best.
Custom design is also included. Whether you want an album or framed photos, I will help you choose what’s best for you and what will look best in your home.
“More than a photographer, Ariel is a true artist and puts all her heart and talent into her work.
We had so much fun taking family photos with Ariel — they brought out the personalities of my kids and we got some beautiful photos. I would highly recommend her– she made the process fun and easy and my kids loved her!
Valerie ARBOLEDA
Family Photography Investment
Family sessions begin at $850 and include:
- A fun and relaxed session (usually 1-2 hours)
- Access to the studio wardrobe
- Styling help for the rest of your family
- A collection of retouched digital images
- A credit to purchase prints
F.A.Q.s
All the extra details …
Where does my family session take place?
You can choose from a few favorite locations:
Arlington Garden in Pasadena — gorgeous greenery, winding paths, and plenty of space for kids to explore.
Malibu Beach at golden hour — rocky outcrops, grassy bluffs, open sand, and soft evening light.
Custom locations — in-home sessions or a spot that’s meaningful to your family.
Studio sessions are also available, though most families prefer the outdoors.
How long will my family session take?
Most family sessions last 1–2 hours. That’s enough time for portraits, candid interactions, and breaks when needed — without pushing kids past their limit.
What time of day will our session start?
Outdoor sessions start 1.5-2 hours before sunset to take advantage of the golden hour. Studio and in-home sessions generally start between 10am and 1pm.
Do you photograph birthday parties or other events?
No, I don’t photograph birthday parties or events. If you’d like birthday portraits of your child, a milestone or family session is perfect.
When should I book my family session?
As early as possible — especially if you’re hoping for a weekend spot or fall session (my busiest season).
Do you offer weekend sessions?
Yes, but they book quickly! If you need a weekend, I recommend reserving your date well in advance.
What should we wear?
I’ll guide you through styling your whole family, and you’ll also have access to my studio wardrobe collection (with especially great options for women and girls). Together we’ll make sure everyone looks cohesive, comfortable, and photo-ready.
What is your style of family photography?
My style is a mix of guided portraits and candid, playful moments. You’ll get those classic, frame-worthy shots with everyone looking at the camera, but also the in-between moments that capture your kids’ personalities and your family’s real connection. The goal is timeless, natural images that feel true to you.
What if my kids don’t sit still?
That’s normal — and expected! I keep sessions fun and fast-paced, with plenty of room for kids to run and play. Some of the best photos come from those unscripted, in-between moments.
Do I get digital files?
Yes. Every collection includes a selection of retouched digital images delivered in your private online gallery. You’ll be able to download and share them easily.
Do you include prints?
Yes — each collection also comes with a print credit to use in your gallery store. You’ll find a curated selection of fine art prints and products to choose from. I’ll can even help you design pieces that will look beautiful in your home.
I want family photos as part of my maternity, newborn, or baby session. Do I need to book a family session too?
Nope — immediate family portraits are always included in my maternity, newborn, and baby milestone sessions.