The years with little ones are loud, messy, and gone in a blink. One day it's snack crumbs in the car seat and someone crying over the wrong color cup, and the next they're taller than you. As a York family photographer, I create relaxed, connection-focused sessions that capture your family exactly as you are right now, without the stress of stiff posing or forced smiles.
Whether you're dreaming of a golden hour session outdoors or cozy portraits in my York Haven studio, I'll guide you through every step so you can simply show up and love on your people.
featured york families
Blough Family
May Family
Elfner Family
Over the years I've photographed dozens of York County families, from brand new families of three to multi-generational crews celebrating the grandparents. Below are a few favorite family sessions from York, including both outdoor golden hour sessions and studio portraits.
elfner family
Ford's in-home newborn session in York, PA was such a special one. His nursery was filled with the sweetest little nods to his name, making the space feel so personal and thoughtfully designed. We were also treated to beautiful weather, so we stepped outside for a few family portraits—a perfect reminder that in-home sessions are flexible and can easily incorporate outdoor spaces when the light and weather are just right. Those little spontaneous moments often become some of my favorite images from the day.
Why York Families Choose Kate McCord Photography
Choosing a family photographer is about more than pretty pictures. It's about finding someone who can wrangle your two year old, make your husband laugh, and deliver a gallery you'll actually print. My goal is to make your entire experience feel easy from the moment you reach out until your final gallery is delivered.
When you book your family session with me, you can expect:
A kid-led approach.
Sessions move at your family's pace with plenty of room for wiggles, snack breaks, and silliness. Some of my favorite images come from the kid who "never cooperates."
Styling handled for you.
Before your session we'll plan wardrobe together, and moms get access to my client closet. No more panic-shopping the night before.
A relaxed experience for everyone.
No stiff posing, no forced smiles. Just gentle guidance and real connection.
Years of experience with families.
As a Master Certified Family Photographer (and a mom of three myself), I know how to keep sessions fun and moving.
Timeless editing that never goes out of style.
Your images will feel natural, bright, and beautiful for generations to come.
"Kate squeezed us into her busy schedule the next day, my newborn being 8 days old, and was so professional! She captured the most precious newborn photos of our sweet girl and us, and had so many props, wraps, and backdrops for our shoot."
Loretta, York, PA
What York families are saying
"We have worked with Kate three times now for family photos. Her photos always feel authentic and warm, and she's great at keeping the kids engaged when they have a lot of excitement and energy."
- Kimberly B.
"Kate always works with whatever my kids are willing to give! She makes the photo sessions very laid back and fun, and sends galleries that are unbelievable! So grateful for all of the photos I have of my family."
- MaryKate D.
"Kate took family photos for us at Historic Shady Lane in York. Everything was easy and smooth from start to finish. She worked great with our children and made sure everyone was comfortable."
- Emily S.
Located just off I-83 in York Haven, my studio is an easy drive for families throughout York, East York, Dallastown, Red Lion, Shrewsbury, Spring Grove, and the surrounding York County area. For outdoor sessions, I photograph at locations all across York County and Central PA.
As a York native raising my own family in York County, this community is home. After photographing York families for years, I've learned every family values something different. Some love the ease of a studio session, others want the golden hour magic. I offer both so you never have to fit into a one-size-fits-all experience.
If your family is about to grow (congrats!), newborn sessions are the heart of what I do. I'm also a Master Certified Newborn Photographer. Head over to my York newborn photography page to see how those sessions work.
CONVENIENT FOR YORK FAMILIES
Expecting or Have a New Baby?
Your session can take place outdoors at one of my favorite York County locations or in my York Haven studio. Once you book, you'll get my full location list and we'll choose the perfect spot together based on your family's style.
Golden hour, the hour or so before sunset, gives us that warm, glowy light everyone loves. I'll help you pick a time that works around naps and bedtimes too.
I keep my calendar intentionally light so every family gets my full attention. I recommend booking 4 to 8 weeks out, and even earlier for fall sessions since those weekends fill fast.
Absolutely! Multi-generational sessions are some of my favorites. Grandparents, cousins, the whole crew is welcome.
FAQ
What time of day is best for outdoor family photos?
Where will my family session take place?
How far in advance should I book my session?
Do you photograph extended families?
What if my kids won't cooperate?
What should we wear for our family session?
Prior to your session we will have a consult call where we will discuss wardrobe, color preferences, and plan out your entire session. I will help guide you to choose outfits that complement your style and photograph beautifully. My clients gain exclusive access to my client closet!
They will not be the first, I promise! With years of experience (and three kids of my own), I have plenty of tricks to keep littles engaged. We keep sessions playful and pressure-free, and honestly, the "uncooperative" kids often give us the best photos.
Check out the BLOG on how to prepare.
Ready to Plan Your York Family Session?
Whether it's your first professional family session or your fifth year in a row, I'd love to help you preserve this season of your family's story. From your first inquiry to your final gallery, my goal is to make the entire experience feel simple, relaxed, and enjoyable.
Many of my York families come back year after year, from newborn sessions to first birthdays to family photos with kids who now pick their own outfits. I'd love for your family to be next.
i'm excited to hear from you!
contact me to be your York family photographer
Thanks for stopping by! My studio is located off of I-83 in York Haven, PA (York County) and I travel throughout Central PA for outdoor sessions. You can reach me by filling out the form below and I will send you a follow-up email within 24 hours. I look forward to speaking with you!
let's create
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You're one step closer to an incredible photography experience & absolutely stunning family memories!
NOW WHAT?!
You'll receive a response back within 24 hours. If you don't see something within that time frame, be sure to check your spam!
E-mails come from kate@katemccordphotography.com if you want to add that to your address book to avoid sending me to spam.
