The Portrait Session Experience

A Thoughtfully Guided Journey From Start to Finish

At Jillian Faulkner Photography, every portrait session is a carefully curated experience designed around you. From your very first consultation to the moment your finished artwork arrives, every detail is thoughtfully considered. This ensures a seamless, enjoyable, and truly memorable experience from start to finish.

Step One — The Pre-Session Consultation

Every exceptional portrait begins long before the camera takes the shot.

Your portrait session begins with a complimentary pre-session styling and concept consultation, where I will take the time to understand your vision, your style, and your goals for your final images.

During your consultation we will discuss:

✦ Session style and concept direction

✦ Location options — studio or outdoors

✦ Wardrobe guidance and styling suggestions

✦ Your vision for finished artwork from gift prints, to wall art and heirloom albums

This conversation allows us to design a session that is uniquely and intentionally yours - ensuring that every image feels authentic, polished, and exactly what you envisioned.

Step Two — Your Portrait Session Day

With over 15 years of experience photographing families, professionals, and everything in between, your session day is in exceptionally capable hands. Every session is thoughtfully paced, expertly guided, and designed to feel as enjoyable as it is beautiful. Whether you have chosen a studio session in the heart of downtown Calgary or an outdoor location that hold special meaning to you, you will be guided through every moment with confidence and care. This results in imagery that feels effortless, authentic, and truly extraordinary. From expertly directed posing to a warm and welcoming atmosphere, your session day is designed to be something you look forward to, not something you simply get through.

Step Three — Your Viewing & Ordering Appointment

Approximately two weeks after your session, you will be invited to the studio for your personal Viewing & Ordering Appointment - one of the most exciting moments of the entire experience! Your images will be presented on a stunning 70" 4K screen, allowing you to see every detail of your portraits in their full, breathtaking glory.

You will have the opportunity to:

✦ View and select which images you wish to purchase

✦ Preview and handle the exquisite product collection my studio offers

✦ Design your wall art, albums, and digital collections

✦ Make your final artwork selections with expert guidance

We kindly ask that all family members who participated in the session attend this appointment, as the decisions made here will shape the artwork that graces your home for generations to come. For clients located outside of Calgary, virtual viewing appointments are available upon request.

Step Four — Delivery & Artwork

All ordered products are carefully prepared and ready for studio pickup within four weeks of your order being placed. Every product leaves the studio to the highest standard of quality because your memories deserve nothing less. Digital files purchased are delivered via secure direct download, ensuring your images are accessible and beautifully preserved for years to come.

Portrait Session Planning & Inspiration

Planning a portrait session with a Calgary family photographer should feel exciting, not overwhelming. Whether you are searching for the best family photographer in Calgary, preparing for your first professional portrait session, or looking for guidance on what to wear and how to prepare, our studio resources are here to help.

As one of Calgary's most trusted family photography studios, Jillian Faulkner Photography is committed to ensuring that every family feels fully prepared, completely at ease, and genuinely excited long before they ever step foot in the studio. Browse our latest tips and inspiration below to help you plan the perfect Calgary family portrait session!