It may be heating up in the Bay Area, but I’m already dreaming of those crisp fall nights, cozy sweaters, and hot chocolate vibes. 🍁 I’m beyond excited to kick off this year’s mini sessions with some of my favorite families (and maybe yours too!).
I know it feels early to think about photos, but trust me—these sessions book up faster than you can say pumpkin spice latte. That’s why I’m giving you first dibs before they sell out. And this year? I’ve got some extra fun planned (hint: think gorgeous pops of color!).
The Scoop
This year, I’m offering several dates across September, October, and November with a mix of beautiful Bay Area locations like the beach, forest, ranch, and tree farm. I offer morning and afternoon spots, which means you can find a time that works perfectly for your busy schedule.
What’s Included
20-Minute Session
20 Edited Digital Images (you’ll choose your faves from the full gallery!)
Online Gallery for easy access, sharing, and high-quality printing
Prep + Wardrobe Guide so you’ll feel totally confident walking in front of the camera
Exclusive Discounts for holiday cards, wall art, and albums via the professional printer in the gallery, but you can print anywhere
Ready for the Full Experience?
While mini sessions are short + sweet, my custom portrait sessions are where the magic really unfolds. With more time to relax, multiple outfit changes, and the freedom to capture a mix of posed portraits and candid in-between moments, you’ll walk away with a gallery that feels like you. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, updating your family photos, or simply craving images that capture your story in a deeper way, these sessions are designed to give you space, ease, and beautiful results. 💕 Let’s create something unforgettable together!
These minis are for everyone! Families, couples, entrepreneurs needing fresh headshots—you name it.
Want to bring the grandparents? YES, please! Multi-generational photos are some of my favorites. If you have a larger crew, book two back-to-back sessions for double the time and double the images.
Investment
Only $300 for all of the above (my custom sessions are $650—so this is a total steal!).
To book your spot, a $200 deposit is due at booking. The remaining balance is due the week of your session.
⚡ These cozy, quick, once-a-year minis will sell out—don’t wait!
The first question I always get: “What should we wear?” Here’s the lowdown:
Family portrait sessions can be a bit stressful, especially if you’ve got little ones or a big group. Trust me, as someone with four adult children, three grandkids, and a career as a professional photographer, I’ve seen it all. But don’t worry—I’m here to share my knowledge and help you prepare for a smooth, enjoyable session that results in beautiful photos you’ll love.
What to Wear?
Coordinate, Don’t Match: Gone are the days of matching outfits. Instead, choose a color palette that works well together. If you’re planning to display these portraits at home, consider your home’s color scheme. If your living room is decorated in warm, earthy tones, you might want to avoid colors like teal and purple.
Start with Your Outfit: Pick something you feel amazing in. Your confidence will shine through in the photos. Once you’ve chosen your outfit, build everyone else’s looks around it, using complementary colors and styles. For example, if you’re wearing a floral dress with pinks, purples, and greens, you could have one child in a green shirt and another in pink, while your partner wears a combination of those colors.
Accessorize Thoughtfully: Accessories like belts, necklaces, bow ties, and hats can add that finishing touch. Avoid anything too trendy that might date the photos—think timeless and classic.
Preparing for the Shoot
Preparation is key to a successful session. Here’s how to get ready:
Hair and Makeup: Consider hiring a professional for hair and makeup. It can be a relaxing experience and ensures you’ll look your best. If you’re doing it yourself, go for a subtle, natural look. Don’t forget to use hairspray if you’re curling your hair, and bring along touch-up items like lipstick and a brush.
Get Plenty of Rest: A good night’s sleep is essential, especially for the little ones. Well-rested kids are happier and more cooperative.
Pack Essentials: If you’ve got young kids, bring along non-messy snacks, a favorite toy, or comfort item. It can make all the difference in keeping them happy and engaged.
Arrive Early: Aim to arrive a few minutes early so you can settle in and everyone can relax before we start shooting.
Grooming Tips
Men: A fresh haircut a couple of days before the shoot is ideal. If you shave, do it the morning of the shoot with a new razor to avoid irritation.
Ladies: Keep your skin moisturized in the days leading up to the shoot, and make sure your nails are tidy. Avoid high-salt foods to reduce bloating, and check your undergarments with your outfit to ensure no straps or lines are visible.
Confidence is Key
The most important thing you can bring to your session is confidence. Remember, it’s perfectly normal to feel a little awkward in front of the camera. My job is to help you feel comfortable and guide you through poses so that you look your best.
Should You Bring Props?
Props can add a fun and personal touch to your photos. Whether it’s something as simple as a favorite blanket or something more creative like brightly colored balloons or umbrellas, props can make your session unique to you. If you’re not sure what to bring, think about what makes your family special.
Final Touches
Teeth: If you want to whiten your smile, start treatments about 2-3 weeks before your session.
Sunburns and Tan Lines: Avoid them! If you tan, do so at least a week before the shoot.
Ironing: Iron your clothes the night before and hang them to avoid wrinkles.
After the Shoot
Once we’ve wrapped up the session, you can relax and look forward to seeing your beautifully edited photos. I’ll keep you updated on when they’ll be ready. In the meantime, treat yourself to something special—you’ve earned it!
I can’t wait to capture these moments for you! Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the experience. See you at the shoot!
I’m so excited to start with my 7 on 7 project. Each month I, along with several talented photographers, will be sharing 7 photos on the 7 of each month. This month, I am sharing photos from a visit to the woods with my daughter and her husband to celebrate her 3rd wedding anniversary.
We went to Henry Cowell State Park in Felton California. A tip for photographing in the woods: Because of the tall trees, you want to photograph more midday as later in the day, when it’s the best time to photograph (2 hours before sunset), it will be darker because of the tall trees.
They brought their chocolate labrador named Blue, and also my grand-puppy! He’s a tall field lab and has the sweetest disposition. While he looks imposing, he would actually lick a burglar and invite them to play with his “baby”, gently loved stuffed animal elephant.
The shoot reminded me of an engagement shoot because I wanted to capture the love they share for each other. You see, they were high school sweethearts. Falling in love at 15. When all of us said it was puppy love, my daughter and her husband knew they were meant for each other. They got married on their 10 year anniversary and amazinglyenough, they truly love each other more today than they did on their wedding day.
I’m such a proud parent at how mature their love is, filled with communication and vulnerability, while having so much fun together. It’s all a mom could wish for their child.
Hope you enjoy the images. Once you’re done, click on over to check out the always beautiful photos from my friend Kristina
Best of 2015 – Creative Photographer in Santa Clara
We are so proud to announce that Jen Vazquez Photography has received great reviews from Thumbtack customers for projects related to creative photographers in Santa Clara, CA and the whole Bay Area.
We are honored to have 30 reviews and they are all Five Star reviews. Here are a few:
5/5 starsActing Headshots Verified Review: Working with Jen was such a great experience! I’ve never taken headshots before and she made me feel comfortable and at ease in front of the camera. She gave me really good direction during our session and emailed me tips before I came to see her for our shoot. Such a wonderful lady and experience, thanks Jen! ~ Natascha B.
~~
5/5 starsPortrait Photography Verified Review: Jen was professional, flexible, and fun. She made the experience for my daughter and her friend a pleasant and relaxing one, while still getting the job done right. I would definitely use her again. Thanks, Jen! ~ Cheryl W.
~~
5/5 starsPortrait Photography Verified Review: I had a fabulous time working with Jen as she took my senior portraits. I’m someone who’s typically camera shy but Jens charming personality brought genuine smiles to my face and I couldn’t be happier with the results! ~Rose R.
~~
5/5 starsPortrait Photography Verified Review: Jen is an amazing photography and truly a delight to work with! My husband and I were so impressed with her skill and her ability to work with our children 5 and 7. They were no tears throughout the entire photo shoot and she had our photos uploaded the next day. Once we chose the photos we wanted she had them edited and back to us the next day again. She is awesome and I would highly recommend her. The best photography experience we’ve ever had. Thanks Jen ~ Tonya Z.
