Relaxed, storytelling style photography for families who want images that feel real, warm, and true to this season of life.

Upper Valley Family Photographer

Family sessions with me are designed to feel easy and unforced. No stiff poses. No pressure to perform. Just space to be together while I document the connection, emotion, and everyday magic that already exists.

Life with your family is made up of small, meaningful moments—the way your child reaches for your hand, the laughter that bubbles up out of nowhere, the quiet togetherness you don’t always notice until it’s passed.

These photos aren’t about perfection. They’re about remembering how this season felt.

My approach is calm, patient, and people-centered. Shaped by my background as a therapist and my belief that the most meaningful images come from presence, not pressure. I work with families who want photos that feel honest and lived-in. Families who care more about connection than perfect smiles. Families who want to remember this chapter just as it is.

I’m a VermonT family photographer serving the Upper Valley of Vermont and New Hampshire. 

Hi, I’m Marissa

Learn more about me

Most families tell me their session felt more like spending time together—and that’s exactly the point.

What it’s like to work together:

From our first conversation to your final gallery, my goal is to make this experience feel supported and easeful.

During the session I’ll guide you gently when it helps and step back when moments unfold naturally.

You don’t need to worry about your kids behaving a certain way or things looking “just right.”

I follow your family’s lead and focus on the connection that’s already there.

A glimpse at my work

Peaks & Pearls Family Photography Session Experiences 

Family sessions focused on connection, movement, and real moments—whether that looks like playing in your backyard, exploring a favorite trail, or cozying up inside your home.

What these sessions are:

Families with young children, growing families, and parents who want photos that feel natural, warm, and reflective of real life.

Who they’re for:

  • Session planning support (location, timing, clothing guidance)
  • A relaxed, unhurried session experience
  • Thoughtfully edited, high-resolution images
  • An online gallery to download, share, and revisit

What’s included in all experiences:

• 1 hour of storytelling-style photography
• One location
• High-resolution downloadable gallery of 40+ edited images
• Pre-session consultation + location guidance
• Same-day Polaroid keepsake to remember the session by

The sweet spot (and most popular choice). A relaxed, playful session capturing your family’s connection, laughter, and everyday magic. Plenty of time for cuddles, giggles, and the little in-between moments you’ll treasure.

Classic Family Session

classic

storytelling

petite

Families who want a balanced session that’s long enough to capture real connection but short enough for little ones.

A 1 hour session at your favorite nature spot or at-home, capturing hugs, tickles, and playful moments.

includes:

INVESTMENT: $450

Perfect for:

Example:

• 30 minutes of storytelling-style photography
• One location
• Pre-session consultation + location guidance
• Curated high-resolution gallery of 20+ edited images

Short & sweet—a focused session to capture joyful, real moments without stress or fuss—ideal for toddlers or families who want a simple update.

Petite Family Session

Families with young children or those seeking a quick, joyful update.

INVESTMENT: $350

A 30-minute backyard session capturing giggles, snuggles, and everyday magic.

includes:

Perfect for:

Example:

classic

storytelling

petite

• 2–3 hours of documentary-style coverage
• Space for multiple activities and transitions
• High-resolution downloadable gallery of 100+ edited images
• Pre-session consultation to dream up your experience + activity/location guidance
• Same-day Polaroid keepsake

Perfect for:

Slow down, soak it in, and let your family’s story unfold. An unhurried, full family experience capturing your day naturally—from morning pancakes in the kitchen to backyard adventures or a favorite trail. This is about documenting connection, play, and the perfectly imperfect moments that make your family unique.

Storytelling Family Experience

Families who want a full, lifestyle documentary session capturing the richness of everyday life.

Example:

2–3 hours of in-home and/or outdoor photography, including multiple activities and natural transitions.

includes:

INVESTMENT: $750

classic

storytelling

petite

PARKERSON/HOFSTRAND FAMILY

”The whole experience was comfortable and Marissa expertly guided us—through finding the right timing for best light to how to pose naturally.”

01/03
TWINING FAMILY

”This being my second pregnancy with our rainbow baby, Marissa was so warm and welcoming in a time of both high anxiety and excitement for my husband and I”

02/03
SAUNDERS FAMILY

”Truly beautiful photos that capture our family. And Marissa was very patient with distracted and grumpy kiddos!”

03/03

Frequently asked questions

Where do family sessions take place?

Sessions can happen in your home, your backyard, or an outdoor location in the Upper Valley. I’ll help you choose a spot that fits your family best.

What should we wear?

I’ll send simple guidance to help you choose outfits that feel comfortable and photograph beautifully without being overly styled.

How long are sessions?

Most family sessions last about 45–75 minutes, depending on your family, the flow of the session, and the experience you choose. 

What if my kids don’t cooperate?

That’s okay, truly. I expect movement, feelings, and flexibility. I work with what unfolds rather than against it.

Ready to document this season of your family’s story?

If you’re drawn to photos that feel natural, emotional, and true to real life, I’d love to work together.

Let’s Connect!