San Diego Wedding and Family Photographer

portrait sessions

couples, seniors, and branding

Capturing your once in a lifetime moments

My portrait sessions include everything from couples on a date night to seniors celebrating graduation to entrepreneurs building their brand. Whether you’re documenting love, marking a milestone, or refreshing your professional image, I focus on creating a relaxed, authentic experience where you can feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera. With gentle direction and a candid approach, your portraits will reflect your personality and this season of life in a genuine way.

Pricing: Starting at $250

Capturing Milestones portraits, Weddings, + Families Timeless and authentic Photography  

how we can work together

abby christensen

Step Four

Session Day!

We will meet at the session location and have the best time! Typical sessions can last anywhere from 60-90 minutes depending on kiddos participation. 

Step Five

Get the Gallery

Family sessions are typically completed and delivered within 3 weeks. You will receive an email with a link to download both the web-size and high-res photos. You will also be able to order archive-quality prints directly from your online gallery. 

Step one

Say Hello!

Fill out my short inquiry form to let me know a little more about the session you are looking to book.

Step two

Book Session

I will send you my availability calendar where you can easily pick your desired date. All sessions are automatically set for golden hour, but I am happy to provide other times. 

Step Three

Let's Prep

I will send you my location and outfit guide to help the decision making process easy-peasy.

engaged couple dances on the beach in a wide photo during their playful cinematic engagement session at sunset
ANSEL + BROOKE

Common Questions

I love to travel! I work within 70 miles of Chula Vista, CA without charging my traveling fee. 

Most family sessions will take place at a beautiful outdoor location in San Diego (think beaches, parks, or scenic spots!) unless you request otherwise. I’m always happy to recommend my favorite locations or explore a place that’s meaningful to your family. Newborn sessions typically take place in-home where we can capture your new baby in their cozy space. Studio sessions are available for an additional studio fee.

This depends on the type of session! I always suggest neutrals and earth tones. Avoid busy stripes, neon, or large logos/graphics. When you book with me, I provide you a full styling guide with inspo photos to help plan your outfits. 

Yes! Family sessions are typically broken into two payments unless otherwise requested. Payment must be made in full by the day of the session.

My typical turn-around time is 3 weeks

Yes! I work with a few local studios that I absolutely love. Please note there is an additional studio rental fee on top of your session fee. Rates vary depending on weekday or weekend bookings and typically range from $125–$250 per hour.

Absolutely! I just ask that you tag me @alainayardphoto so that I can see the photos in the wild and that you refrain from making your own edits. I love seeing my clients post their photos!

Every session is unique! Most galleries average anywhere between 30-75 photos. I don’t cap the amount I deliver.  You’ll receive a fully edited online gallery with a variety of images—plenty of both posed and candid shots for you to download, print, and share. 

Simply fill out my inquiry form, choose your session type, and we’ll pick a date! A retainer and signed agreement officially secure your spot on my calendar.

From the Files

I've had multiple sessions with Alaina and every time i am in awe of her work & talent

Alaina is so incredibly talented at what she does!!! She makes sure every detail is perfect!! I’ve had multiple sessions with Alaina and every time i am in awe of her work & talent!! She makes my vision come to life!!! to make it even better she always sends some sneak peeks early!!! I can’t recommend Alaina enough!!!

-Brooke Watson

From the moment we started, she made me feel completely comfortable and confident in front of the camera.

I had the absolute best experience working with Alaina! From the moment we started, she made me feel completely comfortable and confident in front of the camera. She has such a great eye for detail and knew exactly how to guide me through each pose to get the perfect shot. If you’re looking for someone who’s professional, creative, and just a joy to be around, I can’t recommend Alaina enough!

-Abigael Martinez

Alaina is an incredibly gifted photographer!

Alaina is an incredibly gifted photographer! The use of light and dreamy colors in her photographs and capturing the most beautiful parts of life and people are a few things that make her stand out. Plus, she is just the sweetest and makes you feel so comfortable while taking your photos. We have had family portraits done by Alaina and also professional ones for my business. Everything is done so beautifully and professionally!

-Alissa Kalczuk