The Family Photo Session Process in Zug and Zurich

Your family photo session in Zug and Zurich does not have to feel stiff, awkward, or stressful—and I have spent years making sure of that.

I have photographed hundreds of families across both regions, and most of them show up a little nervous. Will the kids cooperate? Will we all look uncomfortable? What if everything goes wrong? By the time we wrap up, they are usually surprised at how much fun they had.

That’s by design. I have built my entire approach around helping families relax, because that’s when the real moments happen—when you forget about the camera and just enjoy being together.

Whether you’re an expat family looking for a photographer who truly gets your life, or you simply want beautiful, natural photos without the forced poses, I have created this process with you in mind.

Let me show you exactly how it works, from your first message to the moment your gallery arrives.

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At a Glance

Here’s the quick version if you’re short on time:

• How long: 45 minutes of relaxed, playful photography
• The process: Quick questionnaire → we pick a date → I send you a styling guide → we meet up and have fun
• Your photos: Delivered to your inbox within 5 days, fully edited and ready to share
• The vibe: No stiff posing. Just your family being yourselves while I capture the real moments.
• Where: Beautiful outdoor locations around Lake Zug, Zurich’s forests, or wherever feels right for your family
• Good to know: I speak English and Portuguese, and I genuinely understand expat family life

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Step 1: Let’s Get to Know Each Other

Everything starts with a simple message through my contact page. You do not need to have everything figured out—just tell me a bit about your family and what you are hoping for.

I will send you a short questionnaire asking about things like your children’s ages, what season feels right to you, and whether you have a dream location in mind (or if you would like suggestions).

Once we have found a date that works, I will send over a simple online agreement and invoice. As soon as that is done, your spot is officially saved.

And here is my favorite part: you will also receive my Family Styling Guide. It is full of ideas for outfits, colors, and little details that make a big difference in your photos—without any stress on your end.

Step 2: Let’s Figure Out What You’re Going to Wear

I know, I know—choosing outfits for the whole family can feel like a lot. But this is where I actually love to help.

My general advice? Keep things soft and simple. Earthy tones like beige, cream, sage, or dusty blue photograph beautifully in Swiss landscapes. Skip the busy patterns and big logos. And most importantly, pick clothes your family feels good in—especially the kids. A comfortable child is a happy child, and happy children give us the best photos.

Here is a little cheat sheet:

• Colors: Stick to neutral, earthy tones that complement nature (think creams, tans, soft greens, muted blues)
• Patterns: Solid colors or very subtle textures work best—bold stripes and logos compete with faces
• Matching: Coordinate, do not match. You want to look like a family, not a uniform.
• Comfort first: If your toddler hates that button-up shirt, do not force it. Genuine smiles matter more than perfect outfits.

Still unsure? Send me photos of your outfit options and I will help you narrow it down. I love doing this—it is like being your personal stylist for a day.

For more detailed ideas, check out my post: What to Wear for Stunning Family Photos

Step 3: Finding the Perfect Spot

Where we shoot sets the whole mood for your session—and Switzerland gives us so many beautiful options.

Do you love the idea of soft light reflecting off the water? Lake Zug (Zugersee) is stunning for that. The light bounces off the lake and wraps around your family in the most flattering way.

Prefer something more private, with trees and shade? Zurich has some gorgeous hidden forest trails where kids can explore and you will feel like you have the whole place to yourselves.

Feeling adventurous? We could head to a hillside with Alpine views in the background. Just know that these spots involve a bit more walking—something to consider with little ones.

Here is a quick comparison:

Location	What’s Great About It	Things to Consider
Lake Zug	Soft, beautiful light reflecting off the water; classic Swiss feel	More open, might have other people around
Zurich Forests	Private, shaded, even lighting; kids love exploring	Cooler temperatures, bring layers
Alpine Hillsides	Dramatic backdrops, stunning views	More walking required, may tire young kids

I have photographed at dozens of spots across both regions, and I am always happy to suggest locations based on your family’s vibe and your kids’ ages.

Want to explore options? Take a look at these guides:

Location Guide for Family Photos in Zug

Best Locations in Zug for Family Photos

Best Locations in Zurich for Family Photos

Step 4: The Big Day (It’s More Fun Than You’re Expecting)

Okay, your session day is here. Take a breath. Everything is ready.

We will meet at our chosen spot about an hour before sunset—this is what photographers call “golden hour,” and there is a reason we are obsessed with it. The light during this window is warm, soft, and incredibly flattering. It wraps around faces instead of casting harsh shadows, and it gives photos that glowy, magical quality.

Your session will last about 45 minutes. Why that length? Because I have learned that is the sweet spot for families with young kids. Long enough to get a beautiful variety of shots, short enough that nobody hits a wall.

Here is roughly how it flows:

First 5-10 minutes: We ease in. I will chat with you and the kids, let everyone get used to me and the camera. No pressure, no forced smiles—just settling in.

Next 30-35 minutes: This is where the fun happens. I will guide you through prompts and little games that bring out genuine connection. Think: whispered secrets that make everyone giggle, kids running into your arms, cuddles and tickles, walking hand-in-hand. The kinds of moments that feel like real life—because they are.

Last few minutes: We wrap up with any specific shots you wanted, and I might sneak in a few more candid moments while you are relaxed.

Here is the thing about posing: we are not going to do much of it. Traditional “everyone stand still and smile” photography does not work well with kids (honestly, it does not work well with most adults either). When people freeze and perform for the camera, it shows. My approach is all about movement, play, and real interaction. That is how we get photos that actually feel like your family.

If you have ever wondered why I use games during sessions, I wrote about it here: Why I Play Games During Family Sessions

Step 5: Your Gallery Arrives

Within 5 days of your session, you will get an email with a link to your private online gallery.

Why 5 days? That gives me time to carefully go through every image, select the very best ones, and edit each photo in my warm, natural style. I adjust the light, fine-tune the colors, and make sure skin tones look beautiful and true to life. Every image is polished and ready—whether you want to post it on Instagram, print it on your wall, or send it to grandparents across the ocean.

Your gallery will include:

• High-resolution images ready for printing (even large formats)
• Web-sized versions perfect for sharing online
• Easy download access so you can save everything to your devices right away

From there, you can also order fine-art prints or custom albums if you would like something tangible to hold onto. But there is no pressure—your digital files are yours to keep and share however you would like.

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Your Session Prep Checklist

I want you to feel completely ready when your session day comes. Here is what I recommend:

One Week Before

• Finalize your outfits. Lay everything out, try it on, make sure everyone is comfortable. Send me photos if you want a second opinion!
• Confirm the details. Double-check our meeting time, location, and how to get there.
• Stock up on snacks. Hungry kids and good photos do not mix. Pack some favorites.

Two Days Before

• Pack your session bag. You will want: a blanket to sit on (grass can be damp), tissues or wipes, snacks, water, and maybe a small toy for comfort.
• Keep things calm. Try not to overschedule. Well-rested kids are so much happier in front of the camera.

Session Day

• Go slow in the morning. A rushed, stressed start shows up in photos. Keep the vibe relaxed.
• Get dressed and go. Trust that we have prepared well, and now it is time to simply enjoy your family.
• Let me guide you. You do not need to know what to do—that is my job. Your only job is to connect with each other and have fun.

Why Families Love Working With Me

I could list credentials and techniques, but honestly? What makes our time together special comes down to a few simple things:

I get expat life. I know what it is like to live far from extended family, to want photos you can share across oceans, to navigate a new country in a language that is not your first. Many of my families are from the US, UK, Canada, and across Europe—and they often tell me it is a relief to work with someone who just understands.

I keep things real. No stiff posing, no forced smiles, no “say cheese.” I capture your family the way you actually are—the laughter, the cuddles, the chaos, the quiet moments. These are the photos you will actually want to look at in 20 years.

I make it easy. From our first email to your final gallery, I handle the details so you do not have to stress. Clear communication, a smooth process, and photos delivered on time. Simple as that.

I speak your language. Literally—I work in both English and Portuguese, whatever feels most comfortable for your family.

Let’s Do This

If you have made it this far, I have a feeling we would work well together.

Here is what happens next:

1. Reach out. Send me a message through my contact page and tell me a little about your family.
2. We will chat. I will learn about what you are hoping for and answer any questions you have.
3. We will plan together. Location, timing, outfits—I will guide you through all of it.
4. We will have a blast. And you will have beautiful photos to prove it.

Book Your Family Session →

I cannot wait to meet your family.

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A Little About Me

I am Mary Fernández—a bilingual family and brand photographer based in Zug, Switzerland. I have spent years photographing international families across the Zug and Zurich area, and I have built my business around one simple belief: family photos should feel joyful, not stressful.

When I am not behind the camera, you will probably find me exploring Switzerland with my own family, hunting for good coffee, or planning our next adventure.

Want to see more of my work or say hello?

Website: maryfernandezstudio.com

Email: info@maryfernandez.ch

Instagram: @maryfernandezfamilies

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