Props to Bring to your Family Photo Session

Props to Bring to your Family Photo Session

by | Nov 8, 2025 | family, photography

Personalize your Family Photos | Austin Family Photographer

Want a family photo session that captures this unique moment in time? Then bring props that showcase your family’s interests, skills and hobbies right now.

Take a look at some examples below. And here’s a list of ideas to get your started:

  • sporting equipment
  • bouquet of colorful flowers
  • bubbles to blow
  • favorite stuffed animal
  • toy your kid is obsessed with now
  • kite to fly
  • musical instrument
  • game your family plays together
  • balloons
  • books to read together
  • confetti or streamers to celebrate a milestone number
  • sentimental items
  • holiday seasonal items (ex. pumpkin, ornament, etc.)
  • your pet (not a prop, but something you love and can bring)
Copy of Copy of family props -flowers
Copy of Copy of family props - stuffed animal
family props - sports
Copy of family props - celebrate
family props - sports skills
Copy of Copy of family props - blanket
_family props - music
Copy of family props - balloons (1)
Copy of family props - toys
_family props - dog
_family props - holiday
Copy of family props - sports

stephanie friedman headshot

Stephanie Friedman first picked up a camera in high school, went on to study photojournalism in college (Hook ‘Em), then worked as a photo researcher in educational publishing for over 20 years.

During all that, she’s been photographing Families and Seniors for the last 10 years. You can count on her to be communicative and organized before your session. She’ll help you feel relaxed and confident during your session. And you’ll have a smile on your face after your session once you see your new photos.

Interested in Booking a Family Photo Session?

Contact Me

More From This Category

High School Senior Year Checklist – May

High School Senior Year Checklist – May

May 2, 2026

High School Senior Year To Do List | Austin, Texas Happy Graduation! High School Seniors (and your Parents): See below for your May To Do List to keep on top of your college applications and a reminder to keep an eye on your School Calendar for events and traditions....

read more
About Me Contact Me Photo Session Types Blog

Tips for including your car in your Senior Photo Session

Tips for including your car in your Senior Photo Session

by | Nov 4, 2025 | photography, seniors

Tips for including your Car in your Senior Photos | Austin Senior Photographer

I always recommend my High School Seniors bring a prop to include in their photo session. It makes their photos feel more personalized. Props can include small things (a photo of them from kindergarten, their musical instrument (like his drum sticks we incorporated) or sporting equipment). Or their prop can be large – like their car.

senior boy photo session at mueller greenway park in east austin

If you’d also like to include your car in your Senior Photo Session, check out my tips below.

Tips for including your car in your Senior Photo Session

  • PREP YOUR CAR: Give it a wash and clean out all clutter. We’ll be taking photos that show the outside and inside, so make sure it shines.
  • CHOOSE YOUR LOCATION WISELY: We picked a spot on the street that wasn’t crowded with other cars and had good light. Another popular location idea for cars is to pick a downtown rooftop.
  • GET A VARIETY OF ANGLES: We took photos with this senior inside, outside and on top of his car. I also like to use the mirrors and headlights for extra effect.
  • MATCH STYLES: Have your clothing match the style of your car. A truck might call for some boots and a cowboy hat. A vintage rental might require a suit. Also go for color contrast – don’t have your clothes match the color of your car.
  • CONSIDER RENTING: Austin has different car rental options if you want something extra-ordinary for your photos.

_______________________________________________________________________________________

Please check out some of my favorite images below (with and without the car) and contact me if you’d like to book your own High School Senior portrait session in Austin, Texas. Explore more Senior sessions on my blog.

thm_oct_2025_sj_senior_photos_mueller_greenway_park_018
thm_oct_2025_sj_senior_photos_mueller_greenway_park_055
thm_oct_2025_sj_senior_photos_mueller_greenway_park_024
thm_oct_2025_sj_senior_photos_mueller_greenway_park_005
thm_oct_2025_sj_senior_photos_mueller_greenway_park_020
thm_oct_2025_sj_senior_photos_mueller_greenway_park_017
thm_oct_2025_sj_senior_photos_mueller_greenway_park_006
thm_oct_2025_sj_senior_photos_mueller_greenway_park_023
thm_oct_2025_sj_senior_photos_mueller_greenway_park_032
thm_oct_2025_sj_senior_photos_mueller_greenway_park_046
thm_oct_2025_sj_senior_photos_mueller_greenway_park_015
thm_oct_2025_sj_senior_photos_mueller_greenway_park_053
thm_oct_2025_sj_senior_photos_mueller_greenway_park_051
thm_oct_2025_sj_senior_photos_mueller_greenway_park_035
thm_oct_2025_sj_senior_photos_mueller_greenway_park_049
thm_oct_2025_sj_senior_photos_mueller_greenway_park_041
thm_oct_2025_sj_senior_photos_mueller_greenway_park_047
thm_oct_2025_sj_senior_photos_mueller_greenway_park_040
thm_oct_2025_sj_senior_photos_mueller_greenway_park_067
thm_oct_2025_sj_senior_photos_mueller_greenway_park_064
thm_oct_2025_sj_senior_photos_mueller_greenway_park_063
thm_oct_2025_sj_senior_photos_mueller_greenway_park_062
thm_oct_2025_sj_senior_photos_mueller_greenway_park_059
thm_oct_2025_sj_senior_photos_mueller_greenway_park_057
thm_oct_2025_sj_senior_photos_mueller_greenway_park_056
thm_oct_2025_sj_senior_photos_mueller_greenway_park_071
thm_oct_2025_sj_senior_photos_mueller_greenway_park_075
thm_oct_2025_sj_senior_photos_mueller_greenway_park_085
thm_oct_2025_sj_senior_photos_mueller_greenway_park_079
thm_oct_2025_sj_senior_photos_mueller_greenway_park_078
thm_oct_2025_sj_senior_photos_mueller_greenway_park_076
thm_oct_2025_sj_senior_photos_mueller_greenway_park_074
thm_oct_2025_sj_senior_photos_mueller_greenway_park_087

Client Feedback and Advice

 

  1. What prompted you to have this photo session? I wanted to capture this youthful moment in my son’s life as we celebrate his transition from teenager to young adult!
  2. What do you plan to do with your digital photos? I plan to share a few on social media and then print some to frame.
  3. How did you choose your location for your session? Mueller is my favorite neighborhood in Austin and where we live!
  4. What advice would you give to others planning a similar Senior photo session? Don’t push your agenda for the kid’s appearance. If they want to dress casually, let them. Let them feel good and confident in the outfit THEY choose.
  5. Anything else you’d like to add about working with Stephanie Friedman Photography? She is super fun and prepared and very personable.

Interested in Booking a Senior Photo Session?

Contact Me

More From This Category

High School Senior Year Checklist – May

High School Senior Year Checklist – May

May 2, 2026

High School Senior Year To Do List | Austin, Texas Happy Graduation! High School Seniors (and your Parents): See below for your May To Do List to keep on top of your college applications and a reminder to keep an eye on your School Calendar for events and traditions....

read more
About Me Contact Me Photo Session Types Blog

Wildflower Center – Family Photo Session

Wildflower Center – Family Photo Session

by | Nov 2, 2025 | family, photography

South Austin Wildflower Center Gardens | Austin Family Photography

Earlier this year, I met up with this sweet family in their neighborhood for their photo session.

This Fall we met at the Wildflower Center in South Austin. Even though the Center was busy with activities and events, we started early and found some quiet corners for photos.

I definitely plan to suggest this spot to other families who want blooming plants all year long.

brother and sister at a family photo session at the Wildflower Center in Austin

Tips for Family Photo Sessions at The Wildflower Center

  • This venue has a location fee. The photography fee during business hours (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.), Monday through Friday, is $100. The photography fee on weekends or after hours is $250. Additional fees may be occur to accommodate guests over the maximum of six. You get a two-hour block with your fee.
  • While Spring bluebonnets are a showstopper, you can find What’s in Season on the Wildflower Center’s website before you book a photo session
  • Check their Events Page to see how busy the Center might be when you visit
  • Make sure to follow the Wildflower Center’s rules and regulations for photo sessions (stay on the path, don’t disturb other guests visiting, etc.)

_______________________________________________________________________________________

Please check out some of my favorite images below and contact me if you’d like to book your own Family photo session in Austin, Texas. Explore more family sessions on my blog.

thm_oct_2025_wildflower_center_family_photos_012
thm_oct_2025_wildflower_center_family_photos_013
thm_oct_2025_wildflower_center_family_photos_002
thm_oct_2025_wildflower_center_family_photos_006
thm_oct_2025_wildflower_center_family_photos_003
thm_oct_2025_wildflower_center_family_photos_017
thm_oct_2025_wildflower_center_family_photos_021
thm_oct_2025_wildflower_center_family_photos_022
thm_oct_2025_wildflower_center_family_photos_026
thm_oct_2025_wildflower_center_family_photos_031
thm_oct_2025_wildflower_center_family_photos_034
thm_oct_2025_wildflower_center_family_photos_029
thm_oct_2025_wildflower_center_family_photos_041
thm_oct_2025_wildflower_center_family_photos_062
thm_oct_2025_wildflower_center_family_photos_053
thm_oct_2025_wildflower_center_family_photos_057
thm_oct_2025_wildflower_center_family_photos_050
thm_oct_2025_wildflower_center_family_photos_048
thm_oct_2025_wildflower_center_family_photos_044
thm_oct_2025_wildflower_center_family_photos_063

Interested in Booking a Family Photo Session?

Contact Me

More From This Category

High School Senior Year Checklist – May

High School Senior Year Checklist – May

May 2, 2026

High School Senior Year To Do List | Austin, Texas Happy Graduation! High School Seniors (and your Parents): See below for your May To Do List to keep on top of your college applications and a reminder to keep an eye on your School Calendar for events and traditions....

read more
About Me

Contact Me

Photo Session Types

Blog

High School Senior Year Checklist – November

High School Senior Year Checklist – November

by | Nov 1, 2025 | photography, seniors

High School Senior Year To Do List | Austin, Texas

It’s cozy season!

See below for your November To Do List to keep on top of your college applications and a reminder to keep an eye on your School Calendar for events and traditions. And don’t forget to make time for fun as well. 

high school senior year november to do list for college applications

    ___________________________________________________________________________________

    Please contact me if you’d like to book a High School Senior portrait session in Austin, Texas this year.

    Ready to reach out to book your photo session?

    Contact Me

    More From This Category

    High School Senior Year Checklist – May

    High School Senior Year Checklist – May

    May 2, 2026

    High School Senior Year To Do List | Austin, Texas Happy Graduation! High School Seniors (and your Parents): See below for your May To Do List to keep on top of your college applications and a reminder to keep an eye on your School Calendar for events and traditions....

    read more
    About Me Contact Me Photo Session Types Blog

    Top Five Reasons to share your Senior Photo Session with a Best Friend

    Top Five Reasons to share your Senior Photo Session with a Best Friend

    by | Oct 28, 2025 | photography

    Top Five Reasons to have a BFF Photo Shoot | Austin Senior Photography

    Top 5 Reasons to Share Your Senior Photo Session with Your Best Friend

    Senior year is full of so many memorable moments — homecoming, college applications, graduation countdowns, and of course… Senior Photos! It’s your chance to celebrate who you are right now — but what if you could make the experience even better?

    If you and your best friend have been inseparable since day one, sharing a Senior Photo Session can be the perfect way to capture your friendship and create memories you’ll both treasure long after graduation.

    Here are my top 5 reasons to book a Best Friend Senior Photo Session.

    best friend photo session in austin, texas

    1. Double the Fun, Double the Confidence:

    Let’s be honest — being in front of the camera can feel awkward at first. But when your best friend is there cheering you on (and probably making you laugh between poses), everything feels more natural.

    2. Built-In Support + Cheerleading

    Friends know how to bring out your best side. They’ll fix your hair, make you laugh at just the right time, and remind you how amazing you look. They’ll also help you plan what to wear (three outfit changes included).

    As a photographer, I see it all the time — when seniors have their best friend there, the whole shoot feels more fun.


    You’ll both relax faster, look more genuine, and end up with photos full of personality and joy.

    3. More Variety in Your Gallery

    Two people means more creative options! We can mix individual portraits with fun shots of you together — from serious and editorial to silly and spontaneous. About 80% of your gallery will be just you and then 20% will be photos together.


    We can also plan complementary outfits, bring props that show off your shared interests, and pick a location that fits both of your personalities. We picked the Mueller Southwest Greenway for their shared location. 

    4. Split the Session, Save Some Cash

    Sharing your senior photo session can also be more budget-friendly. I offer Best Friend session options where you share a longer time slot (75 minutes) and get both solo and duo photos.


    You’ll each get your own gallery (minimum 75 images each), plus a collection of fun friendship combo photos — for less than booking two full sessions separately.

    5. A Memory That Lasts Long After Graduation

    When senior year ends, you’ll head in different directions — maybe to different colleges or cities. Having a set of photos that capture your friendship right now is something you’ll both appreciate for years to come.


    You’ll look back and remember the inside jokes, the laughter, and the way this season of life felt.

    college t-shirt photo session in austin

    _______________________________________________________________________________________

    Please check out some of my favorite images below and contact me if you’d like to book your own Best Friend portrait session in Austin, Texas. Explore more Senior sessions on my blog.

    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_003
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_011
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_008
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_006
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_014
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_017
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_033
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_030
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_029
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_026
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_022
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_031
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_020
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_037
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_057
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_056
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_054
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_051
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_042
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_040
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_059
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_067
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_065
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_064
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_062
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_060
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_068
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_080
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_079
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_078
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_076
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_073
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_074
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_071
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_083
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_115
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_118
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_112
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_110
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_108
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_106
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_101
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_096
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_089
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_119
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_125
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_126
    thm_oct_2025_asa_evelyn_mueller_greenway_129

    Client Feedback and Advice

     

    1. What were the benefits to having your best friend at your photo session with you? It was super fun having Asa there with me, because it wasn’t awkward at all, and it was fun to hype each other up. It made me feel very confident knowing I had a friend with me during a special time! – Evelyn | Having my best friend with me made the shoot more dynamic and made me feel a lot more comfortable in front of the camera. She hyped me up and we were able to try some really cute poses together! – Asa
    2. What advice would you give to others planning a similar Best Friend photo session? I would tell them to not worry at all, every moment of the session was filled with fun and laughter, so just be yourself, plus you got your bestie with you! – Evelyn | 1. have a planning session together before! Try on outfits together and do each other’s hair! 🩷 2. Have a shared Pinterest board with pose and outfit ideas. – Asa
    3. Anything else you’d like to add about working with Stephanie Friedman Photography?  Stephanie was super fun to work with, senior photos are a bittersweet thing to do and Stephanie made this experience something that I can look back and remember a great memory! – Evelyn | Be adventurous! Some of my favorite shots were in tall grass, or even up a tree! Let Stephanie work her magic and you’ll be thrilled with the results. – Asa

    Interested in Booking a BFF Senior Photo Session?

    Contact Me

    More From This Category

    High School Senior Year Checklist – May

    High School Senior Year Checklist – May

    May 2, 2026

    High School Senior Year To Do List | Austin, Texas Happy Graduation! High School Seniors (and your Parents): See below for your May To Do List to keep on top of your college applications and a reminder to keep an eye on your School Calendar for events and traditions....

    read more
    About Me Contact Me Photo Session Types Blog

    Grove Park – Best Friends Photo Session

    Grove Park – Best Friends Photo Session

    by | Oct 27, 2025 | photography

    Three Reasons to share your Photo Session with your Best Friend 

    Want to halve your cost and double your fun? Share your photo session with your Best Friend. 

    Not only will you get plenty of great individual images, you’ll also:

    1) Feel more relaxed and less awkward in front of the camera – your BFF can always get candid smiles.

    2) Have someone else there to help boost your confidence, fix your hair and makeup (and plan what you’re going to wear together before the session).

    3) Document who’s important in your life – you’ll have great professional photos together now and also to look back on.

    BFF three reason photo shoot

    So why not celebrate your friendship and share your Portrait Session with your best friend.

    If you’re interested, check out the details on what’s included at my Senior Photo Session page.

    Tips for a Best Friend Photo Session:

    • Plan together what you’re going to wear – for the combo images  – you want the same style and level of dressiness of your outfits
    • Coordinate on props – we used a flower bouquet to bring some color into this park setting
    • Be an extra set of eyes for your friend – make sure her hair doesn’t have flyaways, check if her shirt is crooked, let her know if her lipstick needs a touch-up, etc.
    • Be a cheerleader – let your friend know how great she looks and help get natural smiles when she’s in front of the camera
    • Have fun!

    _______________________________________________________________________________________

    Please check out some of my favorite images below and contact me if you’d like to book your own Best Friend portrait session in Austin, Texas. Explore more Senior sessions on my blog.

    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_009
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_022
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_017
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_001
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_020
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_005
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_044
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_004
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_025
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_038
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_048
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_033
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_026
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_042
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_059
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_064
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_053
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_050
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_046
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_065
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_067
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_082
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_081
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_080
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_079
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_077
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_073
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_072
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_068
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_088
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_116
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_107
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_104
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_097
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_094
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_091
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_090
    thm_oct_2025_grace_tabitha_grove_park_117

    Client Feedback and Advice

     

    1. What were the benefits to having your best friend at your photo session with you? Planning outfits and getting ready was so much more fun with a friend! Taking photos with a friend makes the experience so much less intimidating. – Grace | A benefit to having my best friend with me at my photoshoot was being able to give a real smile at the camera because we were having so much fun. We were laughing the whole time and it was so much fun to take some great pictures together. The prep for the photo shoot was also fun, because we got to plan outfits together making it a lot easier to be confident in our outfits and poses! – Tabitha
    2. What advice would you give to others planning a similar Best Friend photo session? I would definitely recommend having matching outfits, it was so fun! Also, doing fun, unique poses with your friend is a must. – Grace | My advice for others planning a best friend photoshoot is to come prepared with poses that you want to do, have fun coordinating outfits together, and enjoy the whole experience! – Tabitha
    3. Anything else you’d like to add about working with Stephanie Friedman Photography?  Stephanie is the sweetest, most welcoming and encouraging photographer ever! She makes you feel so comfortable, has such fun poses to try, and the pictures are always gorgeous. – Grace | Working with Stephanie was a lot of fun! She made me feel really confident when posing and had some great ideas that I wouldn’t have thought of! – Tabitha

    Interested in Booking a Best Friend Photo Session?

    Contact Me

    More From This Category

    High School Senior Year Checklist – May

    High School Senior Year Checklist – May

    May 2, 2026

    High School Senior Year To Do List | Austin, Texas Happy Graduation! High School Seniors (and your Parents): See below for your May To Do List to keep on top of your college applications and a reminder to keep an eye on your School Calendar for events and traditions....

    read more
    About Me Contact Me Photo Session Types Blog