ITHACA, NY | ALL SESSION TYPES
Investment & Sessions
Life is expensive enough these days. Capturing the moments that matter most shouldn't be.
Professional photography shouldn't be a luxury reserved for a select few. I started Cardinal Creek Portrait Co. with the belief that everyone deserves beautiful, lasting photographs, regardless of their budget. That's why I've chosen to keep my pricing straightforward, transparent, and intentionally accessible, without compromising the quality or care that goes into every session.
Whether you're celebrating your senior year, documenting your growing family, welcoming a new baby, capturing your love story, or creating professional branding images, every session is designed with authenticity, connection, and timeless storytelling in mind.
I offer senior portraits, family photography, maternity sessions, engagement and couples photography, graduation portraits, lifestyle sessions, milestone photography, and professional branding photography throughout Ithaca, New York, and the Finger Lakes region.
To keep the experience simple and transparent, every session type is available at the same base pricing. Simply choose the package that best fits your vision and the amount of coverage you'd like, whether that's the Full Experience Premium Package, the Classic Package, or the Essential Package. No hidden fees. No confusing pricing. Just an enjoyable experience and photographs you'll treasure for years to come.
 
Session Offerings
 
GRADUATION
PORTRAITS
MILESTONES
SENIOR PORTRAITS
FAMILY
PORTRAITS
ENGAGEMENT & COUPLES
PROFESSIONAL & BRANDING
MATERNITY
PORTRAITS
LIFESTYLE
PORTRAITS
Full Experience
Premium
Every Chapter
$250
 
The most flexible portrait experience, designed for clients who want more time, variety, and a complete collection of images from their session.
With additional time for multiple settings and looks, we can slow down, explore, and create a gallery with greater variety and depth. Your full edited gallery is included, featuring all final images carefully selected and professionally edited by the photographer.
What's included:
- 90-minute portrait session
- Up to 3 nearby locations
- Up to 3 outfits
- Styling guidance
- Full professionally edited gallery
- High-resolution digital downloads
- Print release
 
*Most popular*
Classic
This Chapter
$150
 
The best fit for clients who want more variety without needing a full-length session. With additional time, we can explore different settings, incorporate another look, and create a more varied gallery while keeping the experience relaxed and easy.
What's included:
- 60-minute portrait session
- Up to 2 nearby locations
- Up to 2 outfits
- Styling guidance
- 25 professionally edited images, carefully selected by the photographer
- High-resolution digital downloads
- Print release
- Option to purchase additional images or upgrade to the full gallery (+$75)
 
Essential
This Chapter
$75
 
A simple, relaxed portrait session for when you want beautiful, professional images without needing a longer experience. We will focus on one location and one look, with plenty of time for posing guidance and natural moments without feeling rushed.
What's included:
- 30-minute portrait session
- One location
- One outfit
- 10 professionally edited images, carefully selected by the photographer
- High-resolution digital downloads
- Print release
- Option to purchase additional images or upgrade to the full gallery (+$50)
 
FAQ
Can we customize a package?
Absolutely! If you do not see exactly what you are looking for, please do not hesitate to reach out. I understand that every session, vision, and need is different, and I am always happy to discuss customization options whenever possible. My goal is to create an experience that feels thoughtful, accessible, and tailored to you. I would love to hear your ideas and see how we can bring your vision to life together.
How far in advance should we book?
I recommend reaching out as early as possible to ensure the best availability, especially during busy seasons such as graduation season and fall. While I occasionally have last minute openings, booking in advance allows us the most flexibility when selecting a date, planning your session, and bringing your vision to life without feeling rushed. If you are hoping for a specific timeframe, location, or seasonal look, earlier is always best!
How long does it take to get our photos?
Your completed gallery will be delivered within two weeks, though many galleries are delivered much sooner.
I know how exciting it is to relive your session, and I truly appreciate the anticipation that comes with waiting for your images. Every photograph is carefully selected and individually edited to ensure your gallery feels polished, cohesive, and true to your story.
Rather than rushing the process, I focus on delivering a gallery you will love for years to come. Whenever possible, I strive to return galleries well ahead of my quoted turnaround time because I know you're excited to share and enjoy your memories.
Do you offer sneak peeks?
As a general rule, I typically do not offer sneak peeks. I truly value taking the time to carefully review and thoughtfully edit each gallery rather than rushing portions of the process.
With that being said, I completely understand that certain sessions, such as maternity photos, graduations, engagements, or pregnancy announcements, may involve time sensitive milestones or announcements. If you know your session falls into that category, please let me know as early as possible. We can discuss your timeline and see what may be possible. While sneak peeks are never guaranteed and are always dependent on current workload and turnaround volume, I will absolutely do my best to accommodate whenever I can.
How much posing is involved?
Truthfully, every session is different because every person is different, so there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question!
My goal is always for your session to feel natural, comfortable, and genuine rather than overly posed or stiff. Some sessions flow effortlessly with candid movement and interaction, while others may need a little more guidance and direction, and that’s completely okay.
If you’re someone who feels confident in front of the camera and naturally falls into movement and connection, I’ll likely take a more documentary-style approach and let those moments unfold naturally. If you’re unsure what to do with your hands or nervous about being photographed, don’t worry at all. I’m always happy to step in with prompts, movement suggestions, posing guidance, and direction throughout the session.
And if you have a specific pose, vibe, or “dream shot” you’ve been hoping to recreate, I am absolutely open to incorporating that into your session as well.
At the end of the day, these sessions are about you. I’m just the girl behind the camera helping tell your story.
Where will my session take place?
At this time, I do not have a studio space. Sessions will typically take place outdoors at a thoughtfully selected location or in your home if you prefer a more personal, intimate setting. I am always happy to discuss location ideas and help choose a setting that best fits your vision, comfort level, and the overall feel you are hoping to capture.
Are pets welcome?
Absolutely, pets are welcome! I know that for many people, pets are family, and I am always happy to include them in your session whenever possible.
That said, I do ask that pets attending sessions are comfortable around new people, reasonably well behaved, and able to safely handle the session environment. Sessions can sometimes involve unfamiliar locations, other people, distractions, and equipment, which may be stressful for pets that are highly anxious, reactive, or fearful around strangers. My priority is always creating a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience for everyone involved, including your pet.
If you are unsure whether your pet would be a good fit for the session environment, please feel free to reach out ahead of time and we can discuss the best option together. Additionally, clients are responsible for confirming that their selected session location is pet friendly and complies with any local leash or park regulations.
How are payments structured?
A 25% non-refundable retainer is required at the time of booking in order to officially reserve your session date on my calendar. The remaining balance is due on or before the date of your session.
Please keep in mind that your session date is not considered secured until the retainer and signed contract have been received.
Can extended family or additional people join the session?
Absolutely! Small additions, such as parents, siblings, partners, or close family members, are typically welcome depending on the session type and timing.
If you are hoping to include a larger group or extended family members, please reach out ahead of time so we can discuss the details. Session pricing and timing may need to be adjusted depending on the number of individuals participating and the overall vision for the session. My goal is always to ensure we have enough time and space to create a relaxed, enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
Do you offer group graduation sessions?
Yes! I absolutely offer graduation sessions for friends, roommates, couples, and small groups. Group sessions can be such a fun way to celebrate this season together and capture the relationships that made your college experience meaningful.
Because group sessions require additional time, posing, coordination, and image delivery considerations, pricing for these sessions is customized based on the size of the group and the overall vision for the session. If you are interested in booking a group graduation session, please reach out and I would be happy to discuss options and create a package that best fits your needs.
Do you travel?
Yes! Travel within 20 miles of Ithaca, NY is included with your session. If your desired location is outside of that range, please feel free to reach out so we can discuss the details, available options, and any potential travel fees. I am always happy to explore meaningful locations whenever possible!
What time of day do sessions take place?
Most sessions take place during the hour leading up to sunset, often referred to as “golden hour.” This time of day typically provides the softest light, the most flattering tones, and the warm, timeless feel. The exact session time will vary depending on the season and sunset time throughout the year.
That said, I understand that sunset sessions may not always work for every schedule or lifestyle. While I do strongly recommend them whenever possible for the best overall lighting and color, I am always happy to discuss alternative timing options that best fit your needs and vision.
Do you photograph weddings?
At this time, I am not currently offering wedding photography services as a lead photographer.
That said, I may occasionally consider select opportunities for smaller events or second shooting inquiries on a case by case basis. If you are interested in working together, please feel free to reach out and I would be happy to discuss your vision further.
 
Let's document your story
 
Thank you for considering Cardinal Creek Portrait Co. to capture this special season of your life. Whether you're planning senior portraits, family photos, maternity images, engagement sessions, or professional branding photography, I would be honored to help tell your story.
Based in Ithaca, New York, and proudly serving clients throughout the Finger Lakes, my goal is to create a relaxed, enjoyable experience that results in timeless photographs you'll cherish for years to come.
If you're ready to start planning your session—or simply have questions—I'd love to hear from you.
Let's create something meaningful together.