Documentary-Style Family Photography

Asheville Family Photographer for Real, Candid Moments

Serving all of NC and beyond

You deserve to have

FAMILY PHOTOS THAT LOOK LIKE YOUR FAMILY

Being present with your family doesn’t have to stop when the camera comes out. I bring the same documentary-style approach from weddings to every family session—no stiff poses, no forced smiles. Just real life, documented in a way that feels natural, fun, and relaxed

Why Documentary Family Sessions Beat the Posed & Polished Look

Posed portraits have their place, but they often miss what makes your family your family. The quiet glances, the inside jokes, the beautiful chaos of everyday life—those are the moments you’ll actually want to remember years from now. My sessions are about capturing connection, not perfection. Whether your toddler melts down mid-shoot or your dog runs through the frame, it’s all part of the story—and that’s exactly what makes it worth capturing.

What to Expect From Your Session

Session Flow
Expect to move, laugh, and just be. We’ll work together to pick a location that feels like you—whether that’s hiking a trail, walking downtown, or hanging at home. I’ll guide gently, but mostly I’ll hang back and document your real moments as they unfold.

Wardrobe Tips
No need for matching outfits. I’ll send over some loose guidance before your session so you feel confident, not costumed. Comfort always wins.

Time & Location
Sessions typically last about 60–90 minutes. Golden hour is ideal, but I work with all lighting conditions. Asheville has endless backdrops—from mountain overlooks to city streets. I’m happy to suggest my go-to spots or come to a place that’s special to your family.

A child in a white and blue outfit holds a teddy bear, while an adult's hands gently rest on their shoulders, capturing a tender moment that perfectly highlights the essence of family photography.

“Michael cares. Simple as that.”

“Sure his photography is incredible (it really really is). But you know what? There are undoubtedly other talented photographers out there. What’s going to make your pictures wonderful is if you have a top-tier photographer who CARED ABOUT YOU on top of it all. That’s the key ingredient and what makes Michael different.”

— Ryan M.

Seasonal Minis & Full Session Options

If you’re just looking for a few updated frames (hello holiday cards), seasonal mini sessions are a great option. These are quick, 20-minute shoots offered on select dates throughout the year.

Want more time, more variety, or an in-home documentary-style approach? A full session gives us space to slow down, explore, and capture a fuller story of your family dynamic.

Recent Family Sessions

A family of four and a dog stand outdoors amidst vibrant autumn foliage, their smiles captured for cherished photography portfolios. The parents and two daughters beam at the camera, while the father gently holds a small dog.
A man is lying on the grass with two young children, capturing a perfect moment of family joy. One child is sitting on his back while the other stands beside him, framed by autumn leaves—an ideal scene for any photography portfolio.
Three people and a dog stand on a stone path in a forest with autumn leaves, capturing the perfect moment for their photography portfolios.
Child in a blue outfit stands on a grassy area, marveling at a birdhouse in a forest with autumn foliage—a perfect scene for photography portfolios.
A family of four stands outdoors, captured in a stunning photography portfolio. The father holds a young girl, while the mother kisses a young boy on the cheek, all surrounded by lush trees and greenery.
Two children smiling outdoors, one holding candy, capture a perfect moment for photography portfolios. Autumn leaves cover the ground, while two adults are partially visible behind them.

FAMILY PHOTO SESSIONS

Family photos aren’t one-size-fits-all because every family is different, but what I have found is that all require a starting foundation.  These sessions will give you everything you need to bring your vision to life—and nothing you don’t. 

You’ll always get: 

  • A streamlined and stress-free experience
  • 1 exceptional photographer 
  • Priority communication and support
  • High-resolution digital images in a private online gallery
  • An easy-to-use print shop
  • Full rights to your photos
  • Peace of mind with secure photo backup
family at asheville botanical gardens family photo session
family sitting in field with dog during autumn
A smiling family of four poses outdoors near a small waterfall, with the father carrying one child on his shoulders, perfectly capturing a moment worthy of any photography portfolio.

FAMILIES ARE DESERVING OF REAL MOMENTS

Think of this as more than a photoshoot. It’s a chance to freeze time, to bottle up the magic of one ordinary-yet-extraordinary day and relive it forever. (Did you know you get just 940 Saturdays with your kids before they’re grown? Let’s make one unforgettable.)

I know a full day sounds ambitious, but I promise it’s worth it—and yes, coffee is a non-negotiable! These aren’t just photos; they’re treasures that will bring happy tears for years to come. Are you ready to tell your family’s one-of-a-kind story? Let’s make it happen.

child being baptized in a catholic church
A family in Asheville is running down a path in the woods for a photoshoot with a photographer.

Legacy Session

90 minutes

Full gallery

Price: $975

Ideal for extended families, at-home lifestyle storytelling, or sessions where the goal is to document more than just portraits — we focus on connection, relationships, and everyday beauty.

Full Session

60 minutes

35+ edited images

$675

This session gives us time to explore a location, let everyone warm up, and capture a range of candid, real-life moments.

Asheville family photographer captures a girl and boy with a stuffed teddy bear.
Two adults and a child, smiling brightly, gaze over a stone wall in a serene wooded area—a perfect moment captured in photography for cherished portfolios.

MINI SESSIONS

Length: 20 minutes

Deliverables: 10 edited images

$295

Perfect for quick seasonal portraits, holiday cards, or if you just want a few updated photos without a full shoot.

Book Your Asheville Family Session Today
Whether it’s time for new photos or you’re just starting to think about it, I’d love to hear more about what you’re looking for.

FAQ

What should we wear for a family photo session?
Wear something comfortable and true to your style. Avoid matching too much—coordinating colors with natural textures works better. I’ll send a simple style guide before our session to help you feel prepared.

Do you travel outside of Asheville for family sessions?
Yes! While I’m based in Asheville, I often photograph families in nearby towns like Weaverville, Hendersonville, Brevard, and even Boone or Greenville, SC. Just let me know where you’re thinking.

Can we bring pets to our session?
Absolutely—pets are family too. Just let me know ahead of time so we can choose a location that works for everyone.

Do you offer both mini sessions and full-length sessions?
I do. Mini sessions are great for quick seasonal photos, while full sessions allow us more time to relax and capture your family’s full personality and connection.

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