How long does a family photography session take?

Most lifestyle family photography sessions run between 60 and 90 minutes. Family film sessions are a little longer — typically 2 to 3 hours — so we have time to capture genuine moments rather than rushed ones. We never watch the clock. Every family moves at their own pace, and we follow your lead.

Do you photograph both photos and video, or do I have to choose?

You don't have to choose. Our family sessions include both still photography and cinematic family film. We believe photos and video together tell the whole story — one gives you a moment to hang on your wall, the other gives you the sound of your kids' laughter and the way they move. Most families tell us the film becomes their most treasured thing.

How much does a family photographer in Durham cost?

Most families invest between $850-$1,400, which includes your session and the print artwork created from it. Family Film sessions are four payments of $900. Legacy Films begin at $2,800. The Time Capsule Membership is $245 per month. Visit our Packages page for full details, or reach out and we'll help you find the right fit for your family and budget.

Where do you do sessions in Durham, NC?

We photograph sessions all over the Durham area — at Duke Gardens, Eno River, Duke Forest, and in clients' own homes. We also serve Chapel Hill, Raleigh, Cary, and the greater Triangle. Some of our favorite sessions happen right in your living room. If you have a favorite spot, we'd love to hear about it.

How long until we receive our photos and film?

Gallery delivery is typically within 3-4 weeks of your session. Family films take a little longer due to editing — usually 6-8 weeks. We put real time and care into every delivery, and we'll keep you updated along the way.

Do you photograph newborns in Durham?

Yes — natural newborn photography is one of our specialties. We take a gentle, documentary-style approach to newborn sessions, photographing in your home during those tender first weeks. No props, no posing — just your family in the quiet sweetness of this new chapter.

Do you travel outside of Durham for sessions?

Absolutely. We regularly photograph families throughout the Triangle — Durham, Chapel Hill, Raleigh, Cary — and we're happy to travel further for the right project. Legacy Films and destination family sessions are something we especially love. Reach out and let's talk.

What makes Fifty Two Hundred Photography different from other family photographers?

Our name comes from unit 5200 at Duke University Hospital — the bone marrow transplant unit where our son's life was saved. That experience changed everything about how we see families and why we photograph them. We're not here to make perfect pictures. We're here to help you remember what it actually felt like to live these days. We've been voted Best of Durham four years running (2023-2026) and are featured photographers with Adobe Creative Cloud.

What are the best times of year to book a Durham family photography session?

Spring (April-May) and fall (October-November) are our most popular seasons for the light and color. That said, summer sessions at the Eno River at golden hour are stunning, and winter home sessions have a warmth all their own. We book out quickly in peak seasons, so reach out early.

How do I book a family session in Durham, NC?

The easiest way is to fill out our contact form — just click 'Request Your Session' anywhere on the site. Tell us a little about your family, what you're hoping to capture, and your general availability. We'll be in touch quickly to find a date that works and walk you through everything.

Blog — Fifty Two Hundred Photography

What to Wear for Your Spring & Summer Family Photo Session

Not sure what to wear for your spring or summer family photo session? A Durham family photographer shares her honest, practical guide to outfits that photograph beautifully — and feel like you.

Bea & Tim | A May Wedding at Honeysuckle Tea House — Chapel Hill Wedding Photographer

wedding photographykatrina williamsJune 14, 2026Chapel Hill NC, honeysuckle tea house

Longfellow Triangle LIFE Corporate Event | Raleigh, NC Corporate Event Photographer

A look inside a March 2026 corporate event at Longfellow’s Triangle LIFE campus in Raleigh, NC — photographed by Fifty Two Hundred Photo.

katrina williamsJune 9, 2026

Yoga Branding Session at The Trees, Durham NC

Yoga, Stillness, and Light: A Branding Session at The Trees in Durham, NC

Duke Gardens Family Photography | Durham, NC Family Photographer

Duke Gardens is one of Durham's most beautiful family photography locations. Here's what to expect from a Duke Gardens family session in Durham, NC.

Blackwood Farm Park Family Session | Chapel Hill, NC

A family session at Blackwood Farm Park in Chapel Hill, NC—big trees, open fields, and real moments, captured by a Durham family photographer.

Durham Headshot Photographer | Nursing Students at Durham Tech

A Durham headshot photographer reflects on spending a day on the Durham Tech campus photographing nursing students — and why a first professional headshot is about so much more than LinkedIn.

Studio Photographykatrina williamsJune 1, 2026Durham NC, headshot, Studio Session

How Much Does Family Photography Cost in Durham, NC?

Wondering what family photography costs in Durham, NC? Here's an honest breakdown — what's included, what it's worth, and how to know if it's the right investment for your family.

In-Home Family Photography in Durham & Hillsborough, NC: Why At-Home Sessions Capture the Most Meaningful Moments

When families think about booking photos, they often picture a scenic outdoor location.

But some of the most meaningful images I capture happen right at home.

In-home family sessions are relaxed, natural, and deeply personal—because they reflect your real life as it is right now.

katrina williamsMay 25, 2026

Best Family Photographers in Durham, NC (And How to Find the Right One for Your Family)

Looking for the best family photographer in Durham, NC? Here's what actually matters when choosing — and how to find someone whose work feels like your real life.

How to Plan Graduation Portraits at UNC Chapel Hill

katrina williamsMay 14, 2026

A Durham Backyard Wedding Full of Music and Love

An intimate backyard wedding in Durham, NC planned by Events by Rebs — a joyful, deeply personal celebration full of spring flowers, broom jumping, guitar-playing, and a baby on the way. Photographed by Katrina Williams of 5200 Photo.

wedding photographykatrina williamsMay 14, 2026Durham NC, Outdoor Wedding

Emily & Connor | Intimate Wedding at Honeysuckle Tea House | Chapel Hill NC Wedding Photographer

What to Wear for Family Photos in Raleigh, NC (Lifestyle Session Outfit Guide)

One of the first questions almost every family asks is: What should we wear? Here’s what I tell every family before their Raleigh lifestyle session.

Mother's Day Gift Guide: Meaningful Gifts for Moms (That Actually Matter)

Motherhood rewrites you. It rewrites how you measure time. How late you stay up. How fast you drink your coffee. It shifts what matters. Rearranges your priorities. Fills your mind with details no one else is tracking. We celebrate Mother's Day every year — but we rarely pause to name all that motherhood actually requires.

Mother's Day, Gift Guidekatrina williamsMay 7, 2026Durham NC, Mother's Day, Gift Guide

She Showed Up to Dance — And That Said Everything | Dance Her Popup, Transfer Co, Raleigh

Surprise Engagement Session at Duke Gardens | Durham Engagement Photographer

As a Durham engagement photographer and Duke Gardens photographer, I love capturing real, joyful moments like these.

Duke Gardens is one of the most beautiful spots in Durham for couples’ photos. From blooming flowers and winding paths to romantic bridges and peaceful corners, it’s perfect for Duke Gardens photography that feels timeless and natural.

katrina williamsMay 1, 2026

Three Boys at Duke Gardens | Durham NC Family Photography — Witten Family

A Duke Gardens family session in Durham NC with three active boys — plus five practical tips for getting great family photos when you have kids who won't slow down.

katrina williamsApril 24, 2026