FAQ
Booking & Availability
WHEN ARE YOU AVAILABLE?
We are available on Saturdays, Sundays, and some holidays.
I read that your baby might be at my session. How does that work?
We’re a true family business—which means our daughter tags along for most sessions, nestled in a baby carrier with mom. For lifestyle and engagement shoots (excluding newborn sessions), you’ll often see us working as a team: Brenton behind the lens and Heidi assisting with direction, angles, and second shooting—when baby is content. If she needs a break, Heidi may step aside briefly so the session can continue without pause. We know this setup is a little different, but it reflects who we are: present, flexible, and grounded in family. Most clients find it adds warmth to the experience (and gets a few bonus smiles from their kids, too).
How far in advance should I book a session with Kin & Light?
We have many dates remaining for 2025 and 2026. For maternity shoots, we recommend you book for when you are 30-33 weeks gestation.
WHAT TIME OF DAY IS BEST FOR THE PHOTOSHOOT?
That depends on the type of session! For in-home sessions, we prefer to work with when there is the most natural light in your home. For our mini-sessions at popular SF locations, evening golden hour is stunning.
Can I book you for a wedding?
Unfortunately, we do not photograph weddings. We have a baby under one that we bring along to many of our shoots, so most wedding timing does not work for us. If you are planning an intimate ceremony in the bay area, reach out! Heidi and baby will stay home while Brenton snaps your big day.
Session Style & Process
Does kin & light come do in-home photoshoots?
Absolutely! In-home photoshoots are our specialty and favorite sessions. We will work with you in advance to understand the layout and lighting of your home as well as the types of moments you want to capture (ex. baking together, reading stories, playing outside, etc)
Do you help with poses or let us do our thing?
A little of both! We gently guide you into flattering light and natural movement, then step back so the magic can unfold. Think of us as quiet directors — giving prompts and moving items out of the shot.
What should we wear?
Wear something that makes you feel comfortable, confident, and yourself. Neutrals and earth tones photograph beautifully, while color can be bold and beautiful. Avoid big logos or distracting patterns. We’re happy to help you plan outfits or provide a styling guide upon booking!
What will our communication with you look like?
After you inquire, you’ll hear from us within 48 hours. We'll set up a time to chat, if required. Once booked, we’ll send a survey to help us craft your session. We will check in as your session approaches. You can always reach out with questions — we’re just an email away.
Pricing & Policies
What's Included in your session fee?
Each session includes a pre-session consultation, our time designing your shoot and photographing you on location, post-production editing, and an online gallery of high-resolution images for download.
Is a deposit required to book a session?
Yes. A non-refundable $200 deposit is required to reserve your date. The remaining balance is due three weeks before your session.
Do you offer payment plans?
We’re happy to split payments into two or three installments if that helps. Just let us know during booking.
When is the final payment due?
Final payment is due three weeks (21 days) prior to your scheduled session. Failure to make your final payment will result in the cancelation of your session.
What are your cancellation and rescheduling policies?
You may reschedule once with at least 7 days notice at no additional charge. Rescheduling is subject to availability. Cancellations or no-shows forfeit the deposit. For weather-related reschedules, we’ll work together to find a new date that suits you.
For newborn sessions, we are happy to move up your booking if your little one arrives early!
Can we include pets in our session?
Absolutely! Pets are family. Just let us know in advance so we can plan a location that’s safe and pet-friendly.
Pets must be comfortable and behaved around strangers, including babies.
Do you have a travel fee?
Our pricing structure includes travel up to 20 miles from the MacArthur BART stop in Oakland. A $2/mile fee will be asked for photo session destinations beyond the 20 miles. For example, a distance of 25 miles from the MacArthur BART would be an additional 5 miles, or $10.
After the Shoot
How many images will we receive?
You’ll receive a minimum of 50 fully edited, high-resolution images for a standard lifestyle session. We don’t cap the gallery size — if it’s a beautiful photo, we include it.
Mini sessions will receive a minimum of 10 fully edited high-resolution images.
When will we get our photos?
Within 3 weeks of your session, we’ll send you a private online gallery where you can view, download, and share your photos.
Newborn sessions will be returned within 2 weeks of your session.
Editing may be expedited to 1 week for an additional fee of $200.
Will I be able to download and print the images?
Yes! All sessions come with unlimited downloads and a full print release. We also offer gorgeous professional prints through your gallery.
Can I receive the Raw image files?
Nope — and here’s why: RAW files are unfinished and not representative of our work. Our photography setting are taken in a way to maximize the lighting opportunity in postproduction editing. This means the RAW files look dull and dark. We carefully edit each image to reflect our standard of quality.
Can I share my photos on social media?
Of course! We love seeing our clients share their memories. Tag us @kinandlight so we can celebrate with you.
Do you offer prints or physical photo albums?
Yes! Your gallery includes access to professional print labs for high-quality prints, frames, and heirloom albums. We’re happy to help you design something beautiful.
Can my images be kept private?
Of course! Since we photograph children, we believe you have the right to control what about your children gets posted online. We will never post photos that include you or your children's faces without your permission.
We the photographers retain all image rights. If you would like to purchase full copyright, please request in our in-take consultation.