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.

A Surprise Proposal at Duke Gardens in Durham, NC

There is something so moving about photographing a surprise proposal. The anticipation, the moment of recognition, the instinctive reach for one another—so much happens in just a few seconds. These are the moments I love preserving: honest, fleeting, and full of feeling.

Sarah P. Duke Gardens in Durham, North Carolina, offers a beautiful setting for this beginning. With garden paths, lush greenery, and room to wander together, the surroundings become part of the story while keeping the focus where it belongs: on the two of you.

Man proposing to woman at Sarah P Duke Gardens Durham NC

Couple kissing after getting engaged at Sarah P Duke Gardens in Durham NC

Woman looking at engagement ring after getting engaged Fifty Two Hundred Photo

Woman excitedly looking at new engagement ring Fifty Two Hundred Photo Durham NC

Woman smiling after getting engaged Fifty Two Hundred Photo and FIlm

Woman smiling post getting engaged at Sarah P Duke Gardens Durham NC

Surprise Proposal Photography at Duke Gardens

A surprise proposal takes a little coordination, but the moment itself should feel like yours.

My approach to proposal photography is to give you space to experience what is happening. I want you to remember the words you said, the look on your partner’s face, and what it felt like to hold each other afterward.

The photographs are there to bring you back to those feelings.

When planning a surprise proposal at Duke Gardens, it helps to talk through the location, timing, and how your photographer will recognize you. Having those details settled beforehand allows you to be more present when the moment arrives.

Couple photography Durham NC Fifty Two Hundred Photography

Engagement Photos After the Proposal

One of my favorite parts of a proposal session is the time immediately afterward. The anticipation has softened, and there is room to breathe, laugh, look at the ring, and let it all sink in.

Continuing with engagement photos at Duke Gardens gives you a chance to document that feeling while it is still fresh.

My approach blends candid photographs with gentle guidance. You don’t need to know how to pose or what to do with your hands. We can walk, pause, and make space for the small gestures that feel natural between you.

The result is a collection that holds both the proposal itself and the beginning of your life as an engaged couple.

Couple photography in Sarah P Duke Gardens Durham NC

Planning Your Duke Gardens Proposal Session

A few thoughtful details can help everything feel easier:

Choose a meaningful setting. Think about what feels right for your relationship, whether that is a garden setting or a place connected to your history together.

Coordinate the timing and exact location. Share your plans with your photographer in advance, including your route and a way to communicate discreetly.

Leave time afterward. Give yourselves space to enjoy the moment before moving into engagement portraits.

Plan for the weather. An outdoor proposal benefits from a flexible backup plan.

Check photography requirements. Duke Gardens requires a permit for planned portrait photography. Review the Gardens’ current photography policies and arrange the necessary permission before your session.

Couple smiling at each other Sarah P Duke Gardens

Couple smiling and holding hands Sarah P Duke Gardens

Your Durham, NC Proposal Photographer

You deserve photographs that help you remember how this beginning felt.

At Fifty Two Hundred Photo + Film, I photograph couples with a warm, thoughtful approach, making room for genuine connection and the moments that unfold naturally.

If you’re planning a surprise proposal at Duke Gardens or looking for an engagement photographer in Durham, NC, I would love to hear what you’re imagining.

Explore my couples and wedding photography, then get in touch to begin planning your session.

Couple in front of car with We're Engaged sign

Engaged Couple smiling with a car decked out with I'm Engaged

Couple posing in front of decked out car post engagement

Hello there and thank you for stopping by! I’m Katrina, the heartbeat behind Fifty Two Hundred Photo + Film, in Durham, North Carolina. I specialize in capturing meaningful and precious memories for remarkable families in North Carolina. I hope you enjoyed this story I shared today and if you are interested in learning more about The Time Capsule membership, or let’s connect. Not quite ready to connect, but you would like to follow along the journey? Follow me on Instagram and let’s be friends!

Katrina is a family photographer and family filmmaker based in Durham, North Carolina. She offers lifestyle newborn photography, family sessions, and storytelling family films that focus on honest, heartfelt, and authentic moments. Her clients love receiving both their digital files and beautiful artwork to display in their homes. Katrina also creates custom heirloom albums so you can revisit your favorite memories for years to come.

Katrina has previously partnered with Adobe to share her expertise in capturing magical light and the true essence of each family—an experience that continues to shape her approach and craft.

Want an easy way to make something beautiful out of all your phone photos and videos? Learn more about the Time Capsule Membership here.

Katrina serves Durham, Raleigh, Cary, Carrboro, Apex, and Chapel Hill, North Carolina