Family Photo Shoots

Family photos should look like your family, not like a stiff portrait studio session where everyone is holding their breath waiting for the flash. Paula Mason Photography creates family sessions that are relaxed and natural, designed to capture the real moments between the posed ones – the way your kids actually laugh, the way you hold hands without thinking about it, the look your family shares when something funny happens. Paula’s goal is to give you images that feel like your family, not someone else’s.

How Much Do Family Photos Cost in Allen, TX?

Paula Mason Photography offers several session packages for families. Mini sessions start at $400 and work well for families who want a quick update, seasonal photos, or holiday card shots. Standard sessions start at $650 and include approximately 60 minutes at one location with time for outfit changes and a variety of groupings. Deluxe sessions at $850 include extended time and a second location. The Platinum package at $1,500 is the full experience for families who want a relaxed, unhurried session. Visit the pricing page for complete details on what each package includes.

Where Do You Take Family Photos Near Allen, Texas?

Paula shoots family sessions at parks and outdoor locations throughout Allen, Frisco, McKinney, and Plano. Bethany Lakes Park in Allen is a favorite for its shaded walking trails and creek-side spots. Connemara Meadow Nature Preserve offers wide open fields that look beautiful in the late afternoon golden hour light. Oak Point Park in Plano has a mix of wooded areas and open spaces. For families who want an urban feel, downtown McKinney has brick buildings, murals, and tree-lined streets that create a great backdrop. Paula is also happy to shoot at your home, in your backyard, or at a location with personal meaning to your family.

When Is the Best Time to Schedule Family Photos?

The most popular time for family sessions in Texas is September through November, when the weather cools down and the light is warm and golden. This is also the window most families use for holiday card photos. Spring is another great season, with bluebonnets in March and April and wildflowers throughout Collin County. Summer sessions work too, but Paula schedules them in the early morning or late evening to avoid the Texas heat. Paula recommends booking four to six weeks ahead during peak fall season, but she often has availability year-round for families who prefer a less busy time.

What Should Our Family Wear?

The best approach is to coordinate rather than match. Pick a color palette of two to three complementary colors and have each family member choose something within that range. Neutral tones, earth tones, and soft colors work beautifully in natural outdoor light. Layers add visual interest, especially for fall sessions. Avoid matching t-shirts, large logos, neon colors, and busy patterns. If you are not sure what works, Paula sends a style guide before every session with recommendations based on your location, the time of year, and the look you are going for.

What If My Kids Will Not Cooperate?

This is the most common concern parents have, and it is completely normal. Paula has years of experience working with children of all ages, from newborns to teenagers. She builds in extra time for little ones to warm up and does not expect anyone to sit perfectly still and smile on command. Some of the best family photos happen in the unscripted moments – a toddler running through the grass, siblings laughing at each other, a baby reaching for a parent’s face. For younger children, bringing a favorite snack, bubbles, or a small toy can help. Paula’s approach is to capture your family as you actually are, which means real expressions and real moments.

Can We Bring Our Dog?

Yes. Pets are family, and Paula loves including them in sessions. Dogs are the most common guests, but she is open to whatever furry or feathered family member you want to include. For the smoothest experience, have your pet join for the first part of the session while they have the most energy, and then have a friend or family member take them so you can finish with just the humans. Bring treats and a favorite toy. Do not worry about perfect behavior – Paula is patient and knows how to work with animals.

Serving Families in Allen, Frisco, McKinney, and Plano

Paula Mason Photography is based in Allen, Texas and photographs families throughout the north Dallas-Fort Worth area. Whether you live in Allen, Frisco, McKinney, Plano, or surrounding communities, Paula will help you find a convenient and beautiful location for your session. Travel within the core service area is included in all packages. Paula has been photographing North Texas families since 2017 and knows the best spots, the best light, and the best times of year to schedule your session.

Getting Great Photos Doesn’t Have To Be Hard  

I believe that getting amazing pictures of the people that you love should be easy.      
I love taking pictures, and I’d be honored to take yours.

Let’s make some amazing memories