Experience
what others have to say and
what it's like to work with me
Client Raves
"With multiple kids and a dog, all going in different directions, we weren't sure how the photo shoot would go, but Xinlei was AMAZING! She helped us plan, directed us on exactly what to do, and knew where to get the best shots. She was so kind, funny, and forgiving when our kids were not well behaved. She made it fun and easy! She engaged with each of us, was relaxed and extremely professional, and captured incredible posed and natural photos that we will always cherish! The photos are beautiful!"
Jennifer B.
"Xinlei has the most welcoming personality and artistic sense of what makes a great photography. I would recommend her to anyone looking for a light filled, candid, and natural photos."
Kristina P.
"Given we have two young kids, we were anxious about how we would get any decent family shots before some sort of meltdown. From the start, Xinlei was relaxed and playful with our kids and throughout, she kept them entertained with music, jokes, and also had a promised "treasure chest" for our eldest to choose a toy from, at the end of the shoot. She was able to capture both posed and candids, family shots, kid shots, and parent shots as well. Photoshoots can be awkward and stressful, but Xinlei took away all of that and make it such an enjoyable experience!"
Christina L.
"Xinlei was so kind and helpful with guiding me on tips to capturing the perfect photos - from coordinating outfits, to last minute and extra touches. Our session was so relaxed and fun - it truly just felt like playing with our son at the park. And shy toddler immediately felt at ease with Xinlei - and even let her hold him! She did a great job getting him to smile and bringing out his personality."
Jessica M.
HOW IT WORKS
THE PROCESS
01
SAY HELLO
Fill out my contact form to share a little about you and the type of session you are inquiring about. I’ll be in touch within 48 hours with more information about the next steps.
02
SCHEDULE YOUR SESSION
We can connect over email or hop on a quick phone call and I'll share my process and learn more about your vision for your session. If I'm the right fit for what you have in mind, we’ll pick a session date. A signed contract and paid non-refundable retainer will confirm your session on my calendar!
03
SHARE YOUR VISION
Next, I’ll send over a quick questionnaire so I can learn a little more about your family. Whether you picture your session to take place in the comforts of your own home or at a beautiful outdoor sunset location, I will help you craft a session tailored to your vision. I’ll be available throughout the entire planning process to exchange ideas with you about your wardrobe and assist with location options so that you don't feel overwhelmed!
04
FINALIZE DETAILS
Once all details are finalized, I will provide some tips & session reminders a few days before your session. Now, lay out those outfits because your session is just around the corner!
05
ENJOY YOUR SESSION!
Session day is here! Get ready to have a fun time with your family in front of the camera. I’ll snap some traditional posed portraits at the beginning of our session and then the focus will be on your family’s love and connection! My high energy will keep our session moving and I have plenty of tricks up my sleeve to keep kids (and Dad’s) content! After some tickles, hugs and plenty of laughter, you’ll be headed home to await delivery day!
06
3 weeks after your session, your gallery will arrive in your inbox! So, get cozy with your family and enjoy viewing these special images together. Your images deserve to come off your hard drive and live in your hands and on your walls! You can conveniently order prints and products directly from your gallery.
GALLERY DELIVERY DAY
07
STAY IN TOUCH!
I hope to see you again soon to document your children as they grow, so drop me a line when you’re ready for a photo refresh! Let's continue creating timeless heirlooms together!
by the numbers
AT A GLANCE
25
THE NUMBER OF
WEDDINGS WE SHOOT PER YEAR
15k
THE NUMBER OF
MILES WE DROVE LAST YEAR
95%
THE NUMBER OF
OUR COUPLES WHO DO FIRST LOOKS
24
THE NUMBER OF
GROOMS THAT CRied. HARD.
9
THE NUMBER OF
COUNTRIES we've traveled to
25
THE NUMBER OF
ALBUMS we deliver annually
Do you travel?
I am based in Pleasanton, CA but happy to travel to locations around the Bay Area!
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO RECEIVE MY IMAGES?
3 weeks after our session, you will receive a private link to your gallery.
DO YOU HAVE ANY LOCATION SUGGESTIONS?
I have a list of some beautiful options around the Bay Area that we can use for your session. Let me know if you have a specific vision in mind and I can recommend some great options. I also remind clients to consider their home as their session location - it's often the easiest option because you won't even have to get in the car!
DO YOU SHOOT FILM OR DIGITAL?
I'm a hybrid photographer and shoot a mixture of both digital and film photography. I edit my digital files to match my film images for consistency.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?
All my clients will receive a useful style guide once their session is booked. This will help you get started in planning your family's wardrobe. I will also offer suggestions for a few stores to consider while shopping for outfits.
CAN I BRING MY DOG TO MY SESSION?
Yes! Furbabies are family too and are always welcome! Please let me know ahead of time so I can make sure our location will allow for dogs. Since pup won't be in all of the photos, I do recommend bringing an extra set of hands to help. And don't forget to bring treats and water!
CAN MY FAMILY JOIN ME FOR THE MATERNITY AND NEWBORN SESSION?
Yes, absolutely! I encourage the family to be included in both the maternity and newborn session.
DO YOU OFFER MINI SESSIONS?
I only offer mini sessions on select dates in the spring and fall. Newsletter subscribers will receive the dates first and then it will open up to the general public. In the past, my mini sessions sell out before I am able to open it up to the general public, so please sign up for the mailing list to stay in the loop!
WHAT IF IT RAINS?
I will keep an eye on the weather report leading up to our session. I'll keep the line of communication open and be in touch with you in case we need to reschedule due to rain or poor air from any fires.
Don't Feel Like Leaving the House?
SESSIONS IN THE COMFORTS OF YOUR OWN HOME ARE ALWAYS A FUN TIME FOR THE WHOLE CREW!
Stress-Free Planning
A CLIENT WARDROBE IS AVAILABLE TO HELP MAKE OUTFIT STYLING EVEN EASIER
Want an Outdoor Session?
CHOOSE FROM BEAUTIFUL OUTDOOR LOCATIONS IN THE EAST BAY, SOUTH BAY OR THE PENINSULA
Ready to book?
Let's tell your family's story
Whether your little ones are still babies or teenagers, this season of your life is truly worth remembering. I would be so honoured to document this chapter in your family’s story!
Reserve Your Date
© Bespoke Photography 2022
hello@bespokeportraitphotography.com