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Portraits

The Ultimate Guide to Portraits

Lily Rose Photography is a Napa and Sonoma-based studio offering portrait photography services, including family photos, senior images, lifestyle: Day in the Life sessions and themed photo sessions to clients in California.

"We’re 💀. They’re so good! " - Jennifer Losier, July 2025

At Lily Rose Photography, we believe that portrait photography is more than just capturing an image, it's about telling your story and immortalizing moments that reflect personality, style, and your journey. Whether you're celebrating a life milestone, planning your holiday cards, updating your professional headshot, or simply capturing the beauty of your family, we're here to make it happen.

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Why Portraits Matter

Portraits are more than just a likeness. They hold emotion, personality, and presence. When we photograph you, we’re not just aiming for a flattering image, we’re paying attention to how you move, how you laugh, the way you carry yourself.

A good portrait should feel like you. Not a version of you trying to look a certain way, but an honest reflection of how you show up in the world. That’s what we’re after.

We work with individuals, couples, families, and teams to create portraits that feel relaxed, connected, and personal. Whether we’re shooting in the studio or outside in natural light, we give clear direction when needed and create space for natural moments to happen.

You don’t need to know how to pose. You just need to show up. We’ll take care of the rest.

Traditional Portraits

Traditional portraits are all about capturing the real you in a classic, timeless way. Whether it’s just you, your family, or you and your partner, these portraits focus on bringing out your true personality and connection.

We help with posing, finding (or creating) the light, and choose a setting that fits your style. You don't need to know what to do in front of the camera; that's our job, and we keep it simple and relaxed.

These portraits are made to last. They look just as good framed on the wall today as they will years from now. They're the kind of images you come back to, the ones that mark a moment in time and hold it in place. If you think about it, we change every year, the seasons change every year, so shouldn't your portraits?

Day in the Life Lifestyle Photo Sessions

A Day in the Life session is about slowing down and paying attention to the beauty in your everyday routine. No posing, no matching outfits, no need to clean the house. Just real moments as they happen.

We come along for a slice of your day. It might be a quiet morning at home, a picnic at your favorite park, a trip to the farmer's market, or a lazy Sunday doing what you always do. We document what unfolds without directing the action, focusing on connection, mood, and rhythm.

These sessions are honest and personal. The little things become the big things; how your kids climb into your lap, how you move through your space, the way your family sounds when everyone is talking at once. It's all part of your story.

If you've ever wished you could freeze time, this is for you; it's all about embracing the moments that often go unnoticed, but are honest, heartwarming and fleeting.

I love it!! You are a magician! ...there are so many good ones!!! Will be hard to pick favorite for Christmas card! You guys are the best!! -Mari Cosentino, Dec 2024

Themed Portrait Sessions

If you're looking for something a little different, our themed portrait sessions might be the right fit. These sessions are built around creativity, fun, and self-expression. Whether you're leaning into a vintage vibe, planning a seasonal shoot, or dreaming up something completely out there, we'll help bring it to life with styling support, location ideas, and creative direction from start to finish.

Ideas for Themed Session

You don't need to have it all figured out. Just bring your idea—or even just the spark of one—and we'll shape it together.

Here are some of our favorite themed session ideas:

Seasonal Sessions: Spring blossoms, golden summer evenings, cozy fall light—each season brings a different look and feel. We build sessions around natural colors and textures so your portraits feel grounded in the time of year and the mood you're after.
Vintage Glamour & Prohibition Style: Step into the Roaring Twenties with a 1920s-themed session. Think old-fashioned glamour, vintage details, styled hair, and a little mystery. We can shoot this in the studio or on location, depending on the look you're going for.
Boho-Inspired: Natural textures, earthy tones, and an easygoing feel. These sessions work well outdoors—think fields, vineyards, or even your backyard. Perfect for individuals, couples, or families seeking a relaxed and expressive experience.
Holiday Sessions: We offer complete holiday portrait sessions and mini sessions with festive setups and styling help. You'll walk away with photos that feel warm, personal, and perfect for cards or gifts. Pajamas and cookies or something more dressed-up—we've done both.
Awkward 80s-Inspired Portraits: Yes, we fully embrace the awkward. Bright backdrops, fake smiles, big hair, bad sweaters—it's all welcome. These sessions are fun, intentionally cheesy, and make for hilarious gifts. Great for birthdays, Mother's Day, or just because.
Fantasy & Fairytale: Love Dungeons and Dragons? Have a favorite character or story you want to step into? We can create something imaginative with custom styling, props, and a setting that supports the magic. These sessions are all about play and story, and they work well for individuals or groups.

If you're looking for something unique, our themed portrait sessions are the perfect choice. Whether you're channeling vintage glamour, celebrating the seasons, or even creating a fantasy-inspired shoot, we'll bring your vision to life with creative direction, styling, and carefully chosen locations.

Family Portraits

Family portraits are about more than just getting everyone to look at the camera. They're about capturing the connection between you—how you laugh together, how you show up for each other, and what this season of life feels like.

Whether it's a multi-generational session, an anniversary gift, a birthday, or just a chance to document your family as it is right now, we're here to make it feel easy and relaxed. We'll guide you through the session, helping everyone feel comfortable so you can focus on just being together.

We keep things light, give a little direction when needed, and make space for real moments to happen. These are the kinds of images that live on your walls, sit in albums, and bring back memories for years to come.

Senior Portrait Sessions

Senior portraits should feel like you—not a version of you posed in ways that don't make sense. This is about capturing where you are right now and what this moment means as you finish one chapter and head into the next.

Whether you're into sports, music, art, fashion, or something totally your own, we'll work with you to build a session that reflects your personality and interests. We shoot in natural light, in studio, or on location, depending on the vibe you're after. If you're not sure what that is yet, we'll help you figure it out.

These sessions are meant to be fun, creative, and low-pressure. We'll guide you through everything and keep it easy the whole way through. Senior year goes by fast (that goes for college, as well as high school). These photos give you something tangible to hold onto from this time in your life.

Choosing Lily Rose Photography for Your Portraits

Portraits don’t need to feel formal or forced. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or want to be in a photo that feels like you, we create space for genuine connection and honest expression. You show up as you are. We’ll take care of the rest.

We know most people don’t love being in front of the camera. That’s why portrait sessions with us are designed to feel easy, personal, and low-pressure. You don’t need to know how to pose. You don’t need to come in with a vision. You just need to show up, and we’ll take it from there.

People often come in expecting something formal, but leave saying it felt more like a conversation. We give clear direction when it’s helpful, offer plenty of guidance, and create space for natural moments to happen. It’s not about being “on” for the camera; it’s about feeling like yourself and letting that come through.

“ The pics are incredible! I wasn’t sure what to expect, but within minutes it felt comfortable. I actually forgot I was being photographed.” -Maggie Silver, May 2025

Portrait sessions are personal. Whether it’s just you, your partner, your kids, or the whole extended family, we take the time to read the energy in the room and shape the session around you. Some sessions are quiet and reflective. Others are playful and full of movement. We don’t follow a script. We follow the people in front of us.

We also offer both film and digital options. Film brings a slower pace and a different texture. We often use it for portraits where the light is just right or the moment calls for something quieter. Polaroids are another fun add-on; great for families, seniors, or anyone who wants something tangible to take home that same day.

We photograph portraits in our Vacaville studio and on location throughout Northern California. Some people come to mark a milestone. Others book a session just because they haven’t had a photo taken in years. Whatever the reason, the goal is the same: create images that feel natural, relaxed, and true to who you are right now.

“It wasn’t about looking perfect. It was about feeling present. And that came through in every image.” -Kristine, 2023

This isn’t about getting it “right.” It’s about making space for something honest. And that’s where the good photos live.

Good portraits aren’t about perfect poses. They’re about presence. We keep things simple, clear, and grounded so you can relax and be seen. If that sounds like what you’ve been looking for, we’d love to work with you.

What to Expect During Your Session

Before your shoot, we’ll talk through your goals, what to wear, and where we’ll photograph. If you have a specific theme or style in mind, we’ll help you plan it out.

During the session, we’ll guide you through relaxed poses that feel natural and help you look your best. You don’t need to worry about what to do with your hands or how to stand—we’ll handle it.

Afterward, you’ll get an online gallery of professionally edited images, ready for ordering and printing or sharing to other family members.

A Personalized Experience

No two sessions are the same, and that’s how we like it. We take the time to understand what you’re looking for and build the session around your vision. Whether it’s a formal family portrait, something relaxed outdoors, or a fully themed concept, we work with you to make it feel personal and true to who you are.

Creative Direction

If you’re planning something a little more stylish, or have a unique themed idea, we’re here to help shape it. We can suggest locations, help with wardrobe ideas, and talk through any themes or props you’d like to include. We’ve photographed everything from holiday mini sessions to professional branding, and we’re always open to ideas. The goal is to create something that feels thoughtful and expressive, not staged or overdone.

Lighting and Posing Support

We use both natural and studio lighting, depending on the look you’re after. We’ll walk you through simple, natural poses and help adjust anything that feels off. Most people feel a little unsure at the start, but by the end, they’re surprised at how relaxed it felt. You don’t need to know what to do. That’s what we’re here for.

Editing That Stays True

We edit every gallery with care, aiming to keep the images honest while refining color, light, and tone. The final photos feel polished without looking overly processed. It’s about preserving the mood of the session, not changing how things looked or felt.

"Stop Your Search, You've Found Them!" - Colette Gomes, September, 2022

Common Portrait Questions

What should I wear for my portrait session?

We recommend sticking with soft, neutral colors that complement your features and don’t distract from your face. Darker colors and longer sleeves are slimming. The goal is always to make sure you feel like yourself.

For themed sessions, we’ll help you pick wardrobe pieces that fit the look, whether you’re going for something vintage, cozy, or seasonal.

How long does a portrait session take?

Most sessions run about an hour. If we’re doing something more involved—like a large family session, a creative theme, or multiple locations—we may plan for up to two hours. We’ll go over all the details ahead of time so nothing feels rushed.

Can we include our pets?

Yes, absolutely. Pets are part of the family, and we love when they join in. Just give us a heads-up so we can plan accordingly.

What to Wear: Portrait Session Style Guide

Choosing what to wear can feel challenging. Don’t worry—we’ll help. Here are some simple tips to get you started:

Keep it simple: Solid colors usually work best. They keep the focus on you and photograph well in almost any setting. Think earth tones, muted shades, or soft pastels. These tend to look good on everyone and hold up over time. Darker colors and longer sleeves are slimming, but you do not want to get lost.
- Go for: white, cream, gray, navy, soft green, beige
- Avoid: neon, busy patterns, or logos
Add some texture: Layering or textured fabrics (like knits, linen, or denim) can give your outfit depth without taking over the frame. A well-chosen sweater, scarf, or jacket goes a long way.
- Try: soft plaids, lace details, leather, or a simple pattern
- Skip: bold stripes, loud prints, or anything that distracts
Prioritize comfort and fit: Choose outfits that fit you well and let you move easily. If something feels awkward or restrictive, it’ll show. Confidence always photographs better than stiffness.
Match the vibe of the location: Outdoor sessions look great with relaxed, natural clothing. If we’re shooting in town or at the studio, we might look more polished. We’ll talk about location ahead of time and help you plan what works best.
Bring multiple outfits: If you’re undecided, bring two or three options. Something classic, something casual, maybe something fun. That way, we can mix it up during the session.
Accessories: Less is more. A great pair of earrings, a scarf, or a favorite hat can add personality. Just avoid anything that steals focus or feels overdone.
Shoes: Wear shoes that make sense for where we’re going and how long you’ll be on your feet. Comfort matters, but style doesn’t have to suffer.
- Good choices: simple flats, clean sneakers, boots
- Not ideal: worn-out shoes or anything you can’t walk in
Hair and makeup: Go for polished but still you. Hair should be styled in a way that won’t require constant fixing. Makeup should enhance—not cover—your natural features. Need help? We can refer trusted hair and makeup artists we work with regularly.
For group and family portraits: Coordinate, don’t match. Choose a shared color palette, and let each person pick something that fits them. Think “cousins in complementary tones,” not “everyone in the same shirt.”

Book Your Portrait Session Today

If you’re ready for updated portraits, planning something creative, or want to mark a moment in your life, we’d love to work with you. We offer in-person, studio, and on-location sessions throughout California. Reach out, and we’ll walk you through the options, answer any questions, and help plan a session that feels just right.