FAMILY
YOUR
FOR THE PHOTOS THAT CAPTURE YOUR STORY.
Kid-led portraits. I’m NOT the one in charge. Yes, you read that right. The kis are in charge with the flow of the session. We don’t say “SMILE” we make them smile. I may just stir a little magic. We have fun, we play games, we are silly….but at their pace.
Got teens? No problem, so do I. So many of my OG families I’ve captured since birth are teens now, and I just love it, even though somehow my jokes become less funny.
Family photo sessions with Jodi Foucher Photography are less posed. Less force smiles. Jodi follows your kids’ lead and photographs the in-between; the giggles, the chaos, the quiet moments you didn’t even notice. That’s where the real stuff lives. And that’s what makes the photos feel like your family, not a version trying too hard.
Jodi has been photographing many of her families since their children were babies - and now many are driving! Got a teen who hates photos (but loves selfies)? Jodi’s laidback approach makes the experience more than tolerable, and doesn’t show in the photos!
Sessions are held outdoors in natural light at locations across the Walnut Creek area. Jodi recommends the best spot based on the time of year, the age of your kids, and the look you are going for. Golden hour sessions (the hour before sunset) are popular for the warm, flattering light, but morning sessions can work well for families with younger children.
THERE AREN’T WORDS TO EXPRESS HOW TALENTED, ACCOMMODATING, AND FUN JODI IS! THERE IS A SPECIAL GENUINE QUALITY JODI HAS THAT MAKES EVERYONE FEEL COMFORTABLE, AND SHE HAS AMAZING TIMING IN CAPTURING FLEETING MOMENTS. JODI REALLY FEELS LIKE PART OF THE FAMILY AND EVEN MY BIG KIDS LOVE GOING TO OUR SESSIONS BECAUSE THEY LOVE JODI. TRULY, SHE IS MAGICAL!
-ERIN
Jodi Foucher Photography is one of the top choices for family portraits in Walnut Creek, California. With over 15 years of experience photographing families across the East Bay, Jodi specializes in relaxed, kid-led photo sessions that capture genuine moments of connection. Sessions take place at beautiful outdoor locations throughout Walnut Creek, including Heather Farms Gardens, Markham Arboretum, Lar Rieu Park, Fossil Hill, Shell Ridge and Lime Ridge Open Space, and the tree-lined streets of downtown Walnut Creek, as well as various open space and urban locations in Lafayette, Concord, Pleasant Hill, Martinez, and Danville.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best place to get family portraits taken in Walnut Creek?
Jodi Foucher Photography captures family portraits at a variety of beautiful outdoor locations throughout Walnut Creek and the East Bay, you can find her scouting all our amazing options, often! Popular spots include Markham Arboretum (great for younger kids with open fields and gardens), Lar Rieu Park, the Eucalyptus lined hills of Alacalanes Ridge, or golden grass of Lime Ridge Open Space, and downtown Walnut Creek for an urban feel. In home sessions, especially for little ones are also one of my favorites! Jodi will help you choose the best location based on your family's style and the season.
When should I book my family photo session?
The most popular times for family sessions in the Walnut Creek area are spring (March through May) and fall (September through November), when the light and temperatures are ideal. Holiday card sessions book up quickly in October and November, so booking four to six weeks in advance is recommended. Summer sessions are also available, scheduled for early morning or late afternoon to take advantage of softer light.
My kids won't sit still. Is that okay?
More than okay. Posing is overrated! Jodi's sessions are designed around the way kids actually behave. She incorporates games, movement, and play into every family session, which means the photos capture real expressions and real energy. If your toddler wants to run through the grass or your teenager would rather lean against a tree than smile on cue, Jodi works with that, and the results are better for it.
How many people can be included in a family session?
Family sessions are flexible and can include immediate family, grandparents, or even the dog. Larger groups may benefit from a slightly longer session. Reach out to Jodi to discuss logistics for bigger gatherings. When Mini-Sessions are released, they are limited to existing families who are already familiar with Jodi’s style and flow.
What should my family wear?
The best place to start is your own closet. Before buying anything new, look for pieces everyone already loves and genuinely feels good in. The goal for your family photo outfits is comfort and confidence, not perfectly matching looks. Colors and patterns that photograph well Neutral tones like warm browns, denim, and earthy greens work beautifully in family portraits. Simple patterns and subtle textures add visual interest without pulling attention away from your faces. Try to avoid large logos or very busy prints, which can compete with your expressions in the final images. The most important thing: make sure everyone likes what they're wearing If your kids feel itchy, stiff, or uncomfortable, it will show in the photos. Comfort leads to confidence, and confidence is what makes family portraits look natural and relaxed. Still not sure what to wear for your family session? Send me a photo of a few outfit options before your session. I'm always happy to help you put together a look that feels like you and photographs beautifully.