The FAMILY Experience
Tulsa family photographY
The Melanie Foster Experience
You’re the one who makes the memories happen.
You juggle the snacks, calendars, and crazy range of emotions, and still manage to show up with everyone mostly put together. Raising kids is a blessing, but it’s also a full-time job with zero clock-out. That’s why I’ve designed a family photography experience that’s laid-back, connection-focused, and low-stress (even with wild toddlers and reluctant dads in the mix).
These aren’t just photos. They’re the moments you’ll hold on to when the handprints on the mirrors are gone and the days no longer feel like a blur. They’re your proof that you were there, too - loving, leading, and holding it all together.
Whether you’re marking a milestone or just want to freeze time for a second, we’ll capture a collection of images that feel real, heartfelt, and uniquely you.
For the one holding it all together - and wanting to remember why it matters.
You're already doing the hard part - keeping everyone alive and mostly dressed. My job is to make the photo session feel easy. From the vision planning to the final product, I guide you through the whole process so you don’t have to micromanage a thing. Just show up and be with your people.
Simplicity over stress
Art that outlasts the season. The goal isn’t to impress followers for a day, but to create something lasting for generations. Your gallery is designed to become a part of your home, your traditions, and eventually, your family’s visual history. The sentimental value of your images will only grow with your family.
Legacy over likes
That means allowing silliness, movement, and emotion. We’ll ditch the “say cheese” and instead lean into connection: hand squeezes, impromptu dances, whispers between siblings. I’ll gently guide the session, but your unique personalities and relationships are the star of the show.
Personality over posing
Tulsa family photographY
pricing
Your investment includes the time, expertise, and care that goes into creating a relaxed, meaningful experience for your family - from planning your session to photographing it with intention. This allows us to slow down, get to know one another, and capture portraits with purpose.
Collections contain both digitals and artwork and range from $950 - $1550
A $250 session fee reserves your spot on my calendar.
yes, I want this for my family
a full-service, heart-centered experience from first inquiry to final product.
You don’t have to do it all. You just have to choose a Tulsa family photographer who knows how to care for what matters most.
I guide you through planning, make the session feel relaxed and meaningful, and then help you turn your favorite images into something tangible - without the overwhelm, pressure, or decision fatigue.
yes, I want this for my family
Let the fun begin!
One: The Vision
First things first, let me know you’re interested! Please provide a few details about your location, timeframe, and vision in your inquiry.
Two: The Plan
After we’ve confirmed we're a good fit, let's make it official! We'll select a date and complete booking paperwork. I’ll help you with everything from outfit selection to scouting the perfect locations.
Three: The Prep
Do your kids drop everything and dance to the Bluey theme song? Does a millennial trying to use Gen-Z slang make your pre-teens really laugh? Are you sentimental about your baby losing their curly hair? I'll get a glimpse of those details on our prep call.
Four: The Session
The moment we’ve all been waiting for! Let’s capture the laughter, fun, and carefree moments between your family. It'll feel like playing in the backyard on a beautiful evening! I’ll make sure you feel comfortable and confident, so you can relax and focus on loving your family!
Five: The Art
About 2-3 weeks after your session, I'll be in touch to schedule a gallery reveal. We'll walk through our favorites together, discuss product recommendations, and make final selections + order so you can get to enjoying your images!
The Signature Process
Now booking Tulsa Families
"It was easy!"
"It was easy from start to finish. We never felt rushed or stressed. It was also fun knowing that Melanie was capturing just another evening as a family of three - with maybe slightly more make-up and cute outfits!"
- Layne Webster
"Every year we love every photo"
"We've had our family photos done by Melanie for four years, and every year we love every photo. It's hard to choose favorites! She is a professional and has been so good with our daughter as well!"
- Chris & Katrina Eash
"Melanie has always made our family feel loved"
"We chose Melanie because I love how the Lord uses photography as her ministry. She has such a gracious and genuine spirit. Melanie has always made our family feel loved and comfortable, and our pictures capture the goodness of Christ."
- Bibi Martin
"For every life occasion"
"Melanie will be our family's photographer for every life occasion. She makes taking pictures so much fun, and produces the most beautiful photos. You will treasure these photos immensely."
- Emily Taber
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Not only has my experience behind the camera trained me how to work with kids, but my husband and I have two toddlers. So it’s safe to say we have learned what works (and what doesn't!) Prepare yourself with my best tips for high energy kids!
You love the photos. But… you never printed them. It felt like one more thing on your already full to-do list. And digital feels easier. But what if those shortcuts are quietly devaluing the one thing you invested so much in—your memories?
If you’re looking for a perfectly posed, quiet family session… this one wasn’t it—and that’s exactly what made it so beautiful...
I’ve been there too! Young children are wonderfully unpredictable, and that’s okay! My best advice is to take all the pressure off—no one needs to be perfect. I’ll guide your family in a way that feels natural, embracing your kids’ curiosity and energy so that their personalities shine. Your only job is to show up, love on your family, and enjoy the moment. The best photos come from real connection, and I’ll be there to capture them!
Help! I'm worried my children and/or husband won't cooperate
My mission is to capture your connection with your family - not necessarily with my camera (although we'll get a few smiling shots, too!). I will guide and direct your family with specific action-based prompts so you never feel awkward or unsure of what to do.
What is your shooting style?
I reserve several days each month for make-up dates. If rain, freezing temperatures, or high winds are forecasted on the day of your session, don't fret! We’ll chat about rescheduling and find a time that works for both of us.
What if it rains on the day of my session?
I totally get it—being in front of the camera can feel uncomfortable, especially if you're not feeling your best. But I promise, your kids don’t see you the way you see yourself. They see their mom—the one who loves them, comforts them, and makes them feel safe. These photos aren’t just for today; they’re for the future—for your family to look back on and remember how loved they are!
I don't feel comfortable in front of the camera.
Most galleries include 40+ images! We'll schedule a gallery reveal within two to three weeks of our session date. I'll walk you through my favorites and you'll have the option to purchase additional digitals and print products at that time.
How many photos? and how long will it take to receive them?
You can never go wrong with family photos scheduled between April and November. Keep in mind, the fall tends to be the busiest season for photographers (and often for families returning to school and sports schedules), so it is best to book 2-4 months in advance.
WHEN SHOULD WE BOOK?
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