Exploring 10 Popular Types of Family Photography

Family photography remains one of the most enduring and rewarding niches for professional photographers. With more than 60% of families in the U.S. hiring professional photographers at least once a year for major life events like weddings, births, and holidays( from Professional Photographers of America), it’s clear that this market is thriving. But how do you stand out and offer something truly special? Let’s explore ten types of family photography that will appeal to your clients and boost your portfolio.

1. Traditional Family Portraits

Did you know that about 70% of families choose traditional posed family portraits for holiday cards? These classic sessions are all about controlled lighting, formal posing, and timeless appeal. Perfect for clients who want something classic to hang above their mantel.

2. Candid Lifestyle Photography

Candid shots, often referred to as lifestyle photography, have seen a 25% increase in demand over the past few years, especially among young families. This style captures unscripted, real-life moments, whether it’s cooking breakfast or playing in the park. Parents love how this type of photography tells their family’s authentic story.

3. Newborn Photography

Newborn photography has exploded in popularity, with a nearly 40% annual growth rate. Parents cherish those first few weeks, and offering Zno’s Folio Boxes or custom photo albums allows them to keep those precious memories close. Newborn sessions often incorporate delicate props and careful posing to create soft, dreamy images.

4. Maternity Photography

Maternity sessions have surged in popularity, especially with social media’s influence on documenting life milestones. In fact, Instagram has over 2 million maternity photography posts! Pregnant clients love this chance to celebrate the beauty of pregnancy, and many opt for personalized prints or photo books as keepsakes.

5. Extended Family Sessions

With 77% of families living near at least one extended family member, multi-generational portraits have grown in demand. These larger group sessions are ideal for milestone celebrations and are often perfect for offering Zno’s large-format wall art to capture the grandeur of these special moments.

6. Outdoor Family Photography

Nature lovers rejoice! Outdoor family photography offers endless possibilities for dynamic lighting, seasonal colors, and spontaneous moments. Nearly 50% of family photos are now taken outdoors, making it a preferred choice for families who want their photos to reflect their love for the outdoors.

7. Holiday Themed Photography

Who can resist festive family photos? Holiday sessions, especially around Christmas and Halloween, see a surge every year, with photographers reporting a 20-30% increase in bookings during these seasons. Offering clients products like holiday-themed print boxes is a great way to boost sales during these busy times.

8. Documentary Family Photography

Documentary-style photography, where the family’s daily routines are captured, is a niche that’s gaining traction. About 15% of families now opt for this style, preferring the realness of unscripted, everyday moments over posed shots. This approach is perfect for creating story-driven photo albums or folio boxes that preserve those raw, emotional moments.

9. Milestone Photography

Celebrating key moments like a baby’s first steps or a teenager’s graduation can create lifelong memories. Milestone sessions keep families coming back, and offering personalized albums or print collections for each stage of life can provide a recurring revenue stream.

10. Pet and Family Photography

Pets are family too! With over 67% of U.S. households owning a pet, it’s no surprise that pet-inclusive family sessions have skyrocketed. Offering customized products like Zno’s pet-friendly photo books or wall art helps families celebrate their furry friends alongside their loved ones.

Printed Products for Family Photography

Offering premium printed products is a must for professional family photographers looking to provide lasting value to their clients. From high-quality albums to stunning wall art, these physical products transform digital images into cherished keepsakes. Zno offers a range of beautifully crafted options, including:

• Photo Albums: A top choice for families, offering customizable designs that perfectly capture a family’s journey.
• Folio Boxes: These elegant boxes give families a tactile, luxurious way to display their favorite images, with options for framed or board-mounted prints.
• Wall Art: Clients love displaying large-format prints on their walls. Options like acrylic, canvas, or metal prints allow families to show off their portraits in style​.

These products not only add value to your services but also ensure that families have tangible, high-quality keepsakes that will last for generations. Consider offering bundled packages of digital and printed products to increase client satisfaction and elevate your brand.

Family photography offers endless creative opportunities, and with the right variety of styles, you can appeal to a wide range of clients. Whether you’re capturing candid moments, formal portraits, or multi-generational gatherings, offering high-quality products like Zno’s albums, folio boxes, and wall art ensures your clients walk away with memories they’ll cherish for a lifetime.

By diversifying your portfolio with these ten styles, you can not only attract new clients but also ensure repeat business from families looking to document their lives at every stage.

About Zno

Zno is your One-Stop-Shop Print Lab and All-In-One software platform for professional photographers. With premium quality print products and innovative selections, impress your clients with professional printing on high-quality materials. Maximize your profits with maximum customization options and streamline your workflow with our cloud-based editing and easy ordering system. Say goodbye to complexity and hello to simplicity with Zno. Join us today and take your photography business to new heights！