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.

Photographing the Chamber Orchestra of the Triangle

Four Members of Chamber Orchestra of the Triangle with their Instruments

Members of the Chamber Orchestra of the Triangle Posing with Their Instruments

What an incredible honor it was to photograph the Chamber Orchestra of the Triangle and their new fellows for the year! As a Durham and Raleigh portrait photographer, I've had the privilege of capturing many artists, but there's something particularly special about working with musicians at the beginning of their professional journey.

The energy in the room was electric as these talented young musicians prepared for their portraits. Each fellow brought their own unique presence—some calm and contemplative, others vibrant and expressive. It's moments like these that remind me why I love what I do as an artists portrait photographer.

Woman Posing with Violin During Branding Session with Chamber Orchestra of the Triangle

Woman Playing Cello with Eyes Closed Chamber Orchestra of the Trianlge Branding Photography Session

Man Playing Violin During Branding Session In Durham NC

Man Smiling Posing with VIolin Chamber Orchestra of the Triangle

The Mobile Studio Advantage

For this session, I brought my mobile studio photographer setup directly to the orchestra's space. Working on location allows musicians to feel comfortable in their own environment, and it gives me the flexibility to create both formal studio portraits and more candid, environmental shots. The mobile studio approach means professional-quality lighting and backdrops without requiring artists to travel to a traditional studio.

Capturing the Spirit of Musicians

Photographing musicians requires a different approach than standard headshots. As a studio portrait photographer who works regularly with artists, I focus on capturing not just their appearance, but the passion and dedication that drives them. These young fellows are embarking on an exciting chapter with the Chamber Orchestra of the Triangle, and I wanted their portraits to reflect both their professionalism and their artistic spirit.

Woman Playing Cello During Branding Photography Session

Member of Chamber Orchestra of the Triangle Playing the Cello

Woman Sitting with Violin During Photography Session

Durham and Raleigh's Classical Music Community

The Triangle area has such a rich classical music scene, and the Chamber Orchestra of the Triangle plays a vital role in that community. Getting to document these emerging artists as they join this prestigious ensemble was truly a joy. If you're in the Durham or Raleigh area and haven't experienced their performances yet, I highly recommend checking out their upcoming season at chamberorchestraofthetriangle.org.

Working with this year's fellows reminded me why portrait photography, especially of artists and musicians, remains so fulfilling. Each person brings their own story, their own passion, and it's my job to help that shine through in every image.

Book your session

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