Back-to-School Portraits with Style | Now Booking Picture Day Minis in Tallahassee

July 25, 2025

Elevated Tallahassee Back to School Photos

Sarah Gray Photography is now booking Tallahassee back-to-school photos—designed for families who appreciate clean, timeless portraits with a luxury feel.

The backpacks will be full, excitement on the horizon, a new year of growth charts to measure on the wall. After they’ve met their teacher at orientation, and before you send them off to school, let’s take the back-to-school picture that you REALLY want to share on that first day and to mark the start of a fresh year.

Let’s make this year different.

Why elevated back-to-school photos?

there’s no morning rush to grab that first day photo as everyone is rushing out the door. I have plenty of less-than-stellar facial expressions from my kiddos over the years.
beautiful, simple, backdrop that lets your kiddo’s personality shine
what better place than our favorite… the Old Bradfordville Schoolhouse
edited and ready for you before the weekend’s end
option to purchase prints

Checked off your list before the chaos hits.

📆 Book Your Child’s Session Today »

a collage of a girl sitting in a chair with her backpack

Why Choose Sarah Gray for Your Tallahassee Back to School Photos?

As a professional children’s photographer in Tallahassee, I specialize in creating portraits that blend warmth, simplicity, and sophistication. These sessions are perfect for:

Pre-K, elementary, and middle school students
Families who want professional portraits instead of standard school photos
Seniors who want a GREAT photo to mark the start of their final year
Parents looking for fine-art quality images in a relaxed, child-friendly setting

Each session includes:

5-minute guided portrait session
3 high-resolution, professionally edited digital images
A clean, classic backdrop and subtle school-themed details
Access to a private online gallery with upgrade options

a preschool girl standing in a navy dress against a cream colored wall

Tallahassee Back-to-School Photo Sessions | Details

It’s about making your child feel special and capturing their personality. The location is carefully selected to ensure the best backdrop, offering both natural beauty and versatility. With an emphasis on simple, clean aesthetics, the focus remains on your child.

Looking back on these images in years to come will evoke memories of joyful childhood moments, laughter, and milestones that shaped their early years. Each portrait is a piece of art that can be proudly displayed in your home, serving as a reminder of the love and joy that fills your family’s life.

📍 Location: Bradfordville Schoolhouse
⏱️ Session Length: 5 minutes per child
🖼️ Images Included: 3 digital images, with option to purchase more
📅 Booking Link and more details

What Sets These Apart?

It’s about making your child feel special and capturing their personality. The Bradfordville Schoolhouse location is just so perfect for these. The simplicity of the walls makes it easy for your kiddo’s personality to shine. With an emphasis on simple, clean aesthetics, the focus remains on your child.

These aren’t your typical school portraits.

You can expect:

A luxury portrait experience with minimal props and natural posing
Soft, clean editing for a timeless look
A focus on quality and connection—not just a quick snapshot
A private gallery delivered with care and attention to detail

Unlike mass-produced school photography, each image is a keepsake worthy of your walls.

a girl standing against a cream colored wall with her backpack

Spots are limited and often sell out quickly. Don’t miss your chance to capture your child’s school year with style, simplicity, and lasting beauty. Our Tallahassee Back to School Photos sessions are filling fast, so secure your spot today to ensure you are part of this unique experience that blends art with heartfelt storytelling.

Let’s celebrate a new year with portraits you’ll treasure!

Sarah Gray is an award winning Tallahassee photographer who was awarded a Master Photographer Certification in 2022 with the NAPCP. She has the privilege of creating maternity, baby, and family photography for families in Tallahassee, and across North Florida and South Georgia Sarah has been named among the best newborn photographers in Tallahassee with an A+ rating in 2021 and 2022 by Expertise.com, as well as among the best Tallahassee Family photographers by Peerspace.com

Her clients love that not only do they get digital files from their session but artwork to display in their home.

Sarah serves Tallahassee, Thomasville and the Gulf Coast communities including: Bainbridge, St. Theresa, Moultrie, Monticello, Appalachicola, St. Marks, Crawfordville, Wakulla, Aligator Point, and Gainesville.

by sarah@sarahgray.net

When Is the Best Time to Have Lifestyle Newborn Photos Taken?

July 25, 2025

What is the ideal time for capturing lifestyle newborn photos in the comfort of your home?

family on the floor for newborn photos with twins

Ah, newborn photos! Welcoming a newborn into your family is one of the most precious and fleeting moments in life. Those first few weeks are filled with snuggles, soft coos, and the sweet scent of a brand-new baby. As a photographer, one of the most common questions I get from new parents is: “When is the best time to have lifestyle newborn photos taken in our home?” This question is important as it helps you capture the most meaningful moments.

The answer? It depends on what kind of moments you want to capture! I’ll walk you through the best timing so you can choose what feels right for your family.

Back it up a bit… What is lifestyle newborn photography?

Blog Outline:

The First Two Weeks: Sleepy, Curled-Up Newborn Poses
Weeks 3-6: Awake Moments and Emerging Personality
Beyond Six Weeks: Connection and Interaction
What’s the Best Choice for You?

The First Two Weeks: Sleepy, Curled-Up Newborn Photos

When Is the Best Time to Have Lifestyle Newborn Photos Taken? 1

If you’re thinking about when is the best time to have newborn photos taken at home, the first two weeks are typically recommended.

If you adore those curled-up, dreamy newborn photos where your little one is extra sleepy and snuggly, scheduling your lifestyle newborn session within the first two weeks is ideal. Babies at this stage are still adjusting to the world and tend to sleep deeply, making it easier to capture those serene, peaceful moments. Plus, they’re still tiny, and those delicate, newborn wrinkles and features are at their freshest! Between 2-3 weeks, that pesky baby acne can show up which isn’t ideal for photos as it can’t be completely edited out. I typically suggest newborn photos before the two-week marker if you’re wanting the freshest of fresh newborn pictures.

Your home environment also plays a significant role in creating a cozy and intimate backdrop for these newborn photos. This period allows you to document the earliest interactions and emotions as you navigate this beautiful journey of parenthood.

Weeks 3-6: Awake Moments and Emerging Personality

Weeks 3-6 are a great time to capture your newborn’s awake moments and emerging personality. During this period, you’ll notice your baby becoming more alert and responsive to the world around them. It’s a wonderful time to document their early interactions with you and other family members (hey there new big brother or sister). The photos taken during these weeks can showcase your baby’s unique traits and expressions as they begin to develop their own personality. By this time, babies begin to focus on faces, stretch out more, and show those sweet expressions. You might catch a little yawn, a curious gaze, or even a hint of a smile! Capturing these moments at home can provide a genuine representation of your family’s journey during this new period.

Remember, when is the best time to have lifestyle newborn photos taken at home can also depend on your family’s specific needs. Sometimes, those first two weeks aren’t an option, or many reasons (a rough recovery, extended stay in the hospital, illness, exhaustion). If that’s the case, that’s okay! We can still create beautiful newborn photos you’ll love up to weeks of age.

Beyond Six Weeks: Connection and Interaction

If you’re not in a rush, you can wait until after six weeks for a more interactive newborn photos session. Your baby will be more engaged with you and their surroundings, which can lead to some heartwarming family moments. Older newborns are still tiny but tend to have longer wakeful periods, allowing for more eye contact and sweet interactions with parents and siblings.

Beyond the six-week milestone, babies become increasingly alert and responsive. These are outside the range of newborn photos, but they offer a valuable opportunity to capture genuine family connections. Engaging with your baby during this stage can result in heartwarming family portraits. By customizing the photoshoot to suit your family’s unique dynamics, you can create lasting memories that reflect this special time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my baby arrives early or needs to spend time in the NICU?

Every journey is unique, and so is every session. If your baby arrives early or requires extra care, I’ll work with you to reschedule once your family is settled and ready. Safety, comfort, and your baby’s wellbeing always come first.

Should I book my newborn session before my baby is born?

Yes—it’s best to book during your second or early third trimester to ensure availability. Photographers typically reserve a spot around your due date and adjust once your baby arrives. It gives you peace of mind knowing everything is in place ahead of time.

What time of day is best for newborn photos?

Most lifestyle sessions are scheduled in the mid-morning, when homes are filled with natural light and babies tend to be more settled.

Baby number three welcomed home by two toddler siblings

What’s the Best Choice for You?

When I brought each of my four babies home, I was too overwhelmed to think about having a photographer come in to our mess and photograph us. However, it’s also one of my biggest regrets. I now know that you don’t need a perfectly decorated and cleaned space to create photos you’ll love forever and I wish I could turn back to clock and have photos taken of all of us during that sweet season of those newborn days.

The beauty of a lifestyle newborn session is that there’s no “wrong” time—it’s all about what feels right for your family. These sessions focus on natural, unposed moments in the comfort of your own home, capturing the love and connection you share. Whether your baby is just a few days old and still sleepy or a bit older and more alert, your photos will tell the unique story of your growing family.

So, if you’re wondering when to schedule your lifestyle newborn photo, think about the moments you want to remember most. And if you’re still unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out—I’d love to help you find the perfect time to capture these once-in-a-lifetime memories!

For more newborn photography tips, check out my blog!

Parents with newborn baby in nursery, Sarah Gray Photography, Tallahassee Newborn Photographer

I appreciate your visit! I’m Sarah, the owner of Sarah Gray Photography, a Tallahassee Photographer who focuses on young and expanding families in North Florida and South Georgia. At the core of my business are these timeless lifestyle newborn sessions, which are the heart of my business. If you want to discuss your own lifestyle newborn session, let’s chat! If you’re not ready yet but want to stay connected, follow me on Instagram!

Sarah is a member of the Professional Photographers of America, The Motherhood Anthology, and a contributor for industry publications such as The National Association of Professional Child Photographers, and The Fount Collective.

I’m passionate about creating beautiful, emotive images that are reflections of natural moments filled with love. As a mom of 4, I know how quickly the years go by. If you’re looking for a Tallahassee photographer who takes natural, gently guided photos that aren’t overly posed and doesn’t use props, then we’ll be a great match.

by sarah@sarahgray.net

First Birthday Family Photos at Maclay Gardens State Park

July 2, 2025

by sarah@sarahgray.net

What to Expect from Your Corporate Headshot Photography Session (and 6 Tips on How to Prepare)

July 1, 2025

What to Expect from Your Corporate Headshot Photography Session (and How to Prepare)

Your headshot speaks before you do. Whether it’s featured on your company website, LinkedIn profile, speaking engagement promo, or press kit—your image represents not only your role, but your reputation.

In the world of corporate headshot photography, your headshot speaks before you do. Whether it’s featured on your company website, LinkedIn profile, speaking engagement promo, or press kit—your image represents not only your role, but your reputation.

During my corporate headshot photography sessions, we focus on creating images that truly represent you. My corporate headshot sessions are crafted with intention: simple setups, polished results, and a relaxed experience that makes even the most camera-shy professional feel at ease.

My corporate headshot sessions are crafted with intention: simple setups, polished results, and a relaxed experience that makes even the most camera-shy professional feel at ease. If you’ve booked a session (or are thinking about it), here’s how to prepare and what to expect so you walk away with timeless, confident portraits that reflect who you are.

1. Purpose Drives Preparation

The first step to a successful corporate headshot photography session? Knowing how you plan to use the images.

For company bios or directories: clean, professional, approachable.
For LinkedIn or social media: polished but warm and a touch more relaxed.
For speaking engagements or authorship: poised, confident, and a little more expressive.

We’ll tailor your session based on your professional goals—helping you choose everything from backdrop to pose with that purpose in mind. Incorporating your purpose into the corporate headshot photography session will ensure you walk away with timeless, confident portraits that reflect who you are.

➡️ To fine-tune your professional expression, check out WASIO Faces’ Ultimate Guide on Preparing for a Business Headshot Session—it walks you through defining goals and choosing a photographer that aligns with your vision.

2. Wardrobe Choices That Work

Choosing the right wardrobe for your corporate headshot photography is essential. We recommend bringing at least two outfit options to adapt depending on your skin tone, hair color, or background lighting.

I recommend bringing at least two outfit options so we can adapt depending on your skin tone, hair color, or background lighting. When in doubt, keep it simple.

Do:

Wear well-fitted clothing that makes you feel confident.
Choose classic colors like navy, charcoal, black, ivory, or jewel tones.
Bring a blazer or jacket for layering—adds structure and polish.
Keep jewelry subtle and classic. Simple earrings or a watch are often enough.

Avoid:

Busy prints or bold stripes that distract from your face.
Anything with logos or visible branding.
Overly trendy pieces that may date your headshots over time.

3. Grooming Tips for a Clean Look

Even subtle adjustments make a difference in high-resolution corporate headshot photography.

Get a haircut or trim about a week prior—just enough time for a natural look.
Men: consider shaving or neatly grooming facial hair the morning of.
Women: a light application of matte powder helps reduce shine. Consider professional hair and makeup services if you want an extra boost of confidence.
Hands may show—especially if we do any relaxed sitting poses—so a neat manicure helps.

I also suggest packing a lint roller, lip balm, blotting papers, and a small mirror for quick touch-ups before the shoot.

➡️ Headshots‑Inc’s guide also emphasizes getting adequate sleep—so your makeup and grooming reflect your real self.

4. How the Session Flows

Corporate headshot photography sessions are designed to be efficient, professional, and personalized.

When you arrive:

We’ll walk through your wardrobe choices and discuss the mood you want to portray.
We’ll guide you through subtle posing adjustments (no stiff shoulders here!), helping you look open, confident, and at ease.
We use natural and/or studio lighting, depending on your setting, to flatter every skin tone and create a clean, editorial finish.

Corporate headshot photography sessions are typically 20–30 minutes, and you’ll have the opportunity to review and select your favorite images either during or shortly after the session.

5. Mindset Matters

You don’t have to be “photogenic” to look amazing in your headshots. You just have to be real.

We often hear clients say: “I’m awkward in front of the camera,” or “I hate having my picture taken.”

That’s okay.

My job is to create a calm and welcoming space so you can focus on how you feel, not just how you look. A natural laugh, a thoughtful glance, or a steady gaze—all tell the story of someone worth knowing and working with.

Understanding the flow of the session will help you feel comfortable during your corporate headshot photography shoot.

Take a breath. Stand tall. I’ve got you.

6. Delivery & Use of Images

After your session:

You’ll receive a curated proof gallery to review (typically within 7–10 business days).
Choose your final images based on how you’ll use them. (Need help deciding? We’re happy to guide you.)
Final images are delivered in high-resolution digital format, professionally retouched and ready for web or print.

If your company is booking multiple employees, I offer on-site team sessions and custom group rates for larger groups. These make updating your full staff directory efficient, consistent, and beautiful.

Final Thoughts

Your corporate headshot photograph should look like you on your best day. Not overly airbrushed, not stiff, and never generic. My goal is to create a photo that makes you pause and think, Yes—that’s exactly how I want to show up in the world.

Whether you’re a CEO, realtor, therapist, attorney, or artist—your face tells your story. Let’s make sure it tells the right one.

Ready to schedule your session? Reach out here to learn more about individual or corporate team headshots with Sarah Gray Photography.

Curious about the importance of updated headshots? HeadShots Inc. did a study and the results speak for themselves.

Have an upcoming corporate event and want a photographer? Do you want to offer a headshot booth or photobooth for fun? Contact me for pricing and information.

by sarah@sarahgray.net

Creating Holiday Magic: Tallahassee Santa Photography Sessions

October 16, 2024

Guess what, Tallahassee families? It’s almost that time of year again—the time when the man in red rolls into town for a quick visit to some of my littlest clients, and we invite you to join in the fun with our Tallahassee Santa Photography Sessions! These sessions have become a favorite tradition for so many, and we’re so excited to be bringing the magic back for a 7th year!

We’re keeping the tradition of the clean white walls—so many families love using this for their holiday cards and as a yearly keepsake. Santa will be in town the first weekend of November.

This year I’m so excited that we’ll get him a SECOND weekend, this time in December just as he kicks off his busy season. We are very fortunate that he’s carved out some prime time to see my little friends on Saturday, December 7. Though, if you’ll be wanting to use these photos for Christmas cards, you’ll need to book one of the November Tallahassee Santa photography sessions.

Last year we introduced the option to add on a quick family photo during your Tallahassee Santa photography session. This was well received and we’re offering it again this year. This photo can be with or without Santa.

Laid-back, fun, a little bit luxury… just how we like it.

Book Here

All about Santa:

Santa is a 30+ year registered nurse, excellent with children, and will prepare for your child ahead of time. To do this, he asks that you fill out a brief questionnaire about your child (you’ll be prompted to do so when you book).

Book Here

Here are the details:

Each session includes 5 minutes with Santa and 3 digital files to download and use as you like. These are perfect for up to four siblings, keeping things simple and fun! I know from experience this is enough time to have magical interactions and create great photos. This is the sweet spot. Children are happy with this amount of time and our Santa is able to be at his best for them.

Photos will be ready within 2 weeks of the event date with your images delivered in an online preview gallery for sharing, downloading your included 3 images, and ordering prints if desired. I’ll be a fly on the wall photographing their interaction and then we’ll do some directed pictures with Santa.

When and Where:

November 2: Goodwood Museum and Gardens Rough House

November 3: Old Bradfordville Schoolhouse

December 7: Old Bradfordville Schoolhouse

What’s the Cost:

$195

These Tallahassee Santa photography sessions are all about making memories without the stress of mall lines or navigating Bass Pro. We’re keeping it laid-back, fun, and a little bit of luxury—just how we like it. These spots always go fast, so don’t wait too long to grab your Tallahassee Santa Photography Session!

Book Here

Want to Add a Little Extra? We’ve Got You:

Family Portrait: Jump in for a family picture for an extra $150. Because let’s be honest, you look great, too, and everyone could use that one, perfect picture for your holiday card.
Pre-purchase the full gallery upgrade for $100 off. Can’t narrow it down to 3 Santa photos you love? You can pre-purchase the full gallery download so you’ll be able to download all of your Santa images. If you also opted to take advantage of the Family Photo ad on, those images are included in this full gallery download.
MY BIGGEST SUGGESTIONS/MOM HACK: As a mom of 4, we are a busy family but I don’t want to skimp on experiences. If you know you’ll want to do Santa and family photos this year but don’t think you can manage to do a full family session. I HIGHLY suggest taking advantage of both the add-on options (family photo and the full gallery upgrade. This just checks so many boxes in such an easy experience.

Looking forward to sharing some holiday cheer with you all!

Book Here

Follow these links to see previous year’s Tallahassee Santa Photography Events:

2022

2021

2020

Tallahassee Santa Photography Sessions

When and Where:

November 2: Goodwood Museum and Gardens Rough House
November 3: Old Bradfordville Schoolhouse
December 7: Old Bradfordville Schoolhouse

What’s the Cost: $195

These Tallahassee Santa photography sessions offer a classy and stress-free alternative to traditional mall experiences. Capture precious moments and create lasting memories in a laid-back and luxurious setting. Limited spots available, so secure your Tallahassee Santa Photography Session today!

by sarah@sarahgray.net

Back-to-School Portraits with Style | Now Booking Picture Day Minis in Tallahassee

Elevated Tallahassee Back to School Photos

Why elevated back-to-school photos?

Why Choose Sarah Gray for Your Tallahassee Back to School Photos?

Tallahassee Back-to-School Photo Sessions | Details

What Sets These Apart?

Table of Contents

When Is the Best Time to Have Lifestyle Newborn Photos Taken?

What is the ideal time for capturing lifestyle newborn photos in the comfort of your home?

Blog Outline:

The First Two Weeks: Sleepy, Curled-Up Newborn Photos

Weeks 3-6: Awake Moments and Emerging Personality

Beyond Six Weeks: Connection and Interaction

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my baby arrives early or needs to spend time in the NICU?

Should I book my newborn session before my baby is born?

What time of day is best for newborn photos?

What’s the Best Choice for You?

First Birthday Family Photos at Maclay Gardens State Park

What to Expect from Your Corporate Headshot Photography Session (and 6 Tips on How to Prepare)

What to Expect from Your Corporate Headshot Photography Session (and How to Prepare)

Table of Contents

1. Purpose Drives Preparation

2. Wardrobe Choices That Work

3. Grooming Tips for a Clean Look

4. How the Session Flows

5. Mindset Matters

6. Delivery & Use of Images

Final Thoughts

Creating Holiday Magic: Tallahassee Santa Photography Sessions

All about Santa:

Here are the details:

When and Where:

What’s the Cost:

Want to Add a Little Extra? We’ve Got You:

sarahgrayphoto

Sarah Gray creates timeless and joyful images that are designed for living room walls and photo albums. A tallahassee photographer, Sarah Gray also serves Thomasville, Crawfordville, St. Marks, Gainesville and throughout the panhandle of north Florida and south Georgia.