QUICK and EASY (and fun!)
session fee: $325
(discounts for siblings!)
studio petits
I am so excited to announce our 2025 Studio Petit dates soon! These are quick and fun 15-minute individual sessions that capture the full range of your kiddo’s personality with high quality, frame worthy portraits. I offer both the solid white and the hand-painted canvas backdrops during these sessions. We can focus our time together on just one or both - you choose! There is no requirement to actually wear a turtleneck for any of the pictures, but if you do fancy a "Turtleneck Portrait," I have them in every size in the studio.
You'll receive your online gallery around three weeks after your session. Your online gallery will allow you to download your images and provide access to the online store where you can purchase prints and photo items.
Sign up for our waitlist so you'll get early access to book your spot when 2025 dates are released!
- 15-minute studio petit photo session
- Online gallery for viewing, selecting, sharing, downloading, and purchasing fine art prints + photo items
- 25+ fully-edited, high resolution, black & white digital image files
BOOKING FOR SIBLINGS
- Each child needs their own 15-minute time slot
- Save $50 with each additional sibling booking!
get on the waitlist for 2025!
"Xan used some photography voodoo mama magic and captured my kids’ attention and personalities"
"Ya know that feeling you get when BAM! you suddenly see your kid as a whole entire person of their own and you’re acutely aware of how time is flying by, but you also can’t believe they’re yours? Well, that’s what Xan did for us. She used some photography voodoo mama magic and captured my kids’ attention and personalities, and tricked us all into thinking we were having a play date with her in her adorable studio. I honestly thought the day would be a disaster and was ready to bribe and beg my kids to at least smile, and instead it was over before we knew it and we were all somehow laughing the whole time."
Sarah G.
"We are forever grateful for this experience and also of course for these photographs that will be treasured for many lifetimes."
"I cried immediately upon looking at the photos for the first time.. I couldn't believe that she somehow captured both E & J's true personalities in shots and they jump out at me through the screen!
Xan really gives you the whole package: effortlessly makes you feel comfortable as if she is a longtime friend casually taking pictures of you/loved ones and reveals such stunning end results. My oldest still randomly talks about how fun it was to take pictures with Xan!"
Arely M.
"I AM ABSOLUTELY BLOWN AWAY BY WHAT Xan WAS ABLE TO ACCOMPLISH IN JUST 15 MINUTES. MY KIDS WENT FROM REFUSING TO PARTICIPATE TO BEGGING US NOT TO LEAVE."
"Xan knows exactly how to connect and engage with kids and make them feel like they are playing instead of 'doing their job.' I really didn't know what to expect or if we would even get any good shots but oh my god, we ended up with so many good ones that I'm struggling to pick my favorites - such a good problem to have!"
Claire S.
Hi, I'm Xan!
(short for Alexandra)
As a mama of three boys, I understand the beauty and chaos that comes with raising a family. And they weren't lying when they said 'the days are long but the years are short.' It's these fleeting moments – the giggles, the cuddles, the sweet 'I love yous' – that I cherish most.
I’m all about preserving your family's story authentically. I bring my design background and artistic eye to create timeless portraits that become cherished heirlooms. Think of me as a fellow mom who gets it, someone who creates a fun and relaxed environment where everyone feels comfortable to be themselves.
Where is your studio located?
My private backyard studio is located on a quiet street in the East End neighborhood of Alameda. There is plenty of street parking with no time limits or street-sweeping days. A few days before your session you will receive an email with the exact address.
DOES MY CHILD HAVE TO WEAR A TURTLENECK??
Absolutely not! I love the look of turtlenecks (especially on kids) but it is totally up to you! But if turtlenecks are your jam - I got you covered! We have one in every size (6 months - adult XXL) in the studio!
Have more questions?
There are many great places to purchase neutral clothing. Some of my favorites are: Zara, H&M, Oat & Co, Little Cotton Clothes, The Simple Folk, and Jamie Kay.
I've Got Answers!
Questions about Studio Petits?
Get in touch!
What do the adults do during the session?
Roll up your sleeves cause I'm going to put you to work! :) Kids feel the most safe with their caretakers nearby and it is scientifically proven* (*proven by me...I'm the science LOL) that no one makes your kid smile better than you. To get the biggest range of expressions from your child, I'll invite you join me behind the camera. Together, we'll act like zoo animals, have a tickle fight, engage in a fart contest - whatever it takes to make your kid break free from awkward, forced smile.
Do you do sibling portraits?
There isn't a ton of room for multiple kiddos to cram in together in my mini event set up - it's usually me on the floor with a kiddo on an apple box in front of me. I am happy to attempt to capture multiple children together if there is time at the end of the session as long as I feel like I have captured enough of them individually.
Can the adults hop in a few?
Unfortunately, due to the intimate setting for these portraits, my studio lights are set up for single portraits. If a whole family were to cram in front of my camera, the lighting would not be even across all subjects and would look odd. But I would be delighted to host your family for a full studio session! You can inquire here.
WHAT SHOULD MY CHILD WEAR?
Aim for solid colors that compliments your child's skin tone - neutrals are always a safe bet. For the white backdrop, darker solid colors help make the portrait pop. For the painted canvas, any color except bright white or light grey works well but again, a darker solid color looks best. Make sure to avoid busy patterns (including stripes) and logos.
MY KID TAKES A WHILE TO WARM UP TO SOMEONE NEW, WILL 15 MINS BE ENOUGH TIME?
Knock on wood, I have yet to meet a kid that didn't warm up to camera eventually! Sometimes they need a few extra minutes to get comfortable but in my experience, just giving the child space to play and explore is all they need. When filling out your questionnaire, make sure to include any information that will help make our time together go more smoothly such as "doesn't like loud noises" or "very attached to their lovey," etc.
do you have any brands you recommend?
what do i do if my child is shy or scared?
Even though our time together is short, I always start our session with a little "get to know you" time. I put my camera down, take out some toys and stickers and have your child come "play." Sometimes, kids need their parent/caretaker close by to feel safe. I have space just off camera for you to sit if your child needs you close.
The most important thing is to not put pressure on your child to "perform." Try not to make ultimatums or "if you do this, you'll get that reward." In my experience, those type of bribes makes them hyperfixate on the reward and be less present for the task. Instead of asking your child to sit and smile for the camera, I'll suggest we play a game, or have them choose a sticker to stick on my camera.
WHAT DO I DO IF MY CHILD REFUSES TO PARTICIPATE?