FAMILY PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY

At The Trolley Studio in Salt Lake City, we blend timeless family portraiture with authentic, candid moments that bring you back to the heart of your family’s story. Whether it’s the sparkle of your baby’s giggle as you lift her high or the sweet way your little one snuggles close, we capture the real emotions that make your family unique. Long after the kids are grown, you’ll have stunning artwork that reflects your family’s true spirit and the small, meaningful moments you’ll cherish forever.

Featured Family
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LOREM IPSUM

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LOREM IPSUM

LOREM IPSUM

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THE FAMILY EXPERIENCE

BREATHTAKING • MOMENTS • CAPTURED

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At The Trolley Studio, I love getting to know each family I work with.

At The Trolley Studio, I love getting to know each family I work with. My goal is to create a fun, welcoming experience where you feel completely at ease — so every family walks away not just with beautiful portraits, but with a memory of a joyful, relaxed session.

When you book, I’ll send over a quick questionnaire to help me get to know you better. I want to learn your family’s names, your favorite things about your kids, and the hobbies you enjoy together. With this insight, I can recommend locations that fit your vibe and keep the session flowing naturally — so I can capture the connection, personality, and story that make your family truly special.

I believe getting your photos taken should feel fun and effortless. I know figuring out what to wear can be stressful, but I help take that pressure off with personalized style suggestions, access to Style & Select, and my client closet.

Once that’s handled, it’s all about you and your family creating magic together — surrounded by a beautiful Utah backdrop and gorgeous natural light. When dads tell me afterward, “Wow, that was actually fun!” I know we’ve had a successful session.

It’s okay if the kids aren’t interested in the camera; what matters is keeping your family close and engaged. Maybe that’s tickling your little one, piling on Daddy for a big hug, letting them play in the grass, or simply holding your daughter close. I’m here to capture those authentic moments just as they are — moments you’ll treasure for years to come.

How to Prep Kids for a Successful Family Photo Session

1. Talk It Up (With Excitement, Not Pressure)

Let your kids know a few days in advance that you’re doing something fun together as a family. Avoid phrases like “You have to behave” or “Smile nicely,” which can create anxiety. Instead, say something like:

> “We’re going to play, cuddle, and take some pictures together!”

> You can even describe the photographer as a friend who’s coming to hang out and take some cool pictures.

  • 2. Time It Right

    Schedule the session when your kids are typically at their best—not during nap time, mealtime, or the dreaded afternoon meltdown window.

    Morning or early evening (golden hour) tends to work well. A rested, fed child is more likely to engage and enjoy the process.

  • 3. Dress for Comfort and Confidence

    Avoid scratchy tags, tight collars, or anything they hate wearing. If they feel physically uncomfortable, it’ll show in their body language and mood. Let them try on outfits ahead of time and even “test drive” them for a few minutes at home. Bonus: if they feel like they helped choose their outfit, they’re more likely to cooperate.

  • 4. Bring the Essentials

    Pack a small “photo survival kit”:

    * Favorite snack (non-messy, like crackers or gummies)

    * Water bottle

    * Wet wipes

    * Backup outfit (for surprise spills or accidents)

    * A beloved toy or comfort item (this can even be part of the shoot!)

    * A small bribe or reward for afterward (ice cream, park visit, etc.)


THE INVESTMENT DETAILS

Every session at The Trolley Studio includes beautifully edited digital images, plus exclusive discounted access to our professional print lab. Whether you display your portraits in albums, frames, or keepsakes, your family’s story will be preserved for generations.

Outdoor session investment starts at $850 for petite sessions and $1,600 for full sessions.

How to Prep Kids for a Successful Family Photo Session

5. Let Go of “Perfect”

Kids are unpredictable—and that’s okay. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s connection. If they’re shy, wild, or full of giggles, those are the moments that often make the best memories. Don’t stress if someone isn’t looking at the camera. A good photographer knows how to capture magic in motion.

  • 6. Trust the Photographer

    A seasoned family photographer will have tricks up their sleeve—from silly noises to games and prompts that engage kids naturally. Give them space to build trust with your child. Sometimes, stepping back a little can help kids shine on their own.

  • 7. Set Expectations Low, and Energy High

    Kids feed off your energy. If you’re stressed, they’ll feel it. Focus on making the experience lighthearted and enjoyable. Laugh together, play together, and trust that even the imperfect moments will make beautiful memories.

  • Bonus Tip:

    Consider bringing music, bubbles, or even a little dance break if your child thrives on movement or rhythm. Sessions don’t have to be quiet and posed—they should feel like an adventure.

FAMILY SESSION

Sarah T.,
Salt Lake City
Mom of Two

"I was honestly a little nervous going into our family photo session—my toddler never sits still, and I wasn’t sure we’d get a single usable shot. But Nicole made the entire experience feel like playtime. She was so patient, warm, and engaging with the kids that we all forgot we were being photographed. The photos? Absolutely magical. She captured our personalities, our laughter, even the quiet, tender moments in between. I cried when I saw them. These are the kind of images I’ll treasure forever."

“In the blink of an eye, everything changes. Capture it while you can.”

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Let's Create Magical Memories

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