Family Session
An easygoing session at the beach, a park or your own backyard, with plenty of time to play, wander and warm up to the camera.
60–90 minutes · Up to 6 people · Gallery of 30+ high-resolution photos
Book your San Diego family photo session
Tell me a little about your crew and I’ll get back to you with open dates and a few spots I think you’ll love.
Send an inquirySession types
Holiday Session
Shorter fall sessions on the coast or in the mountains, timed so your photos are ready well before the card deadlines.
30–60 minutes · Fall dates book early · Gallery of 30+ high-resolution, card-ready photos
Milestones & Celebrations
Birthdays, anniversaries and reunions. I’ll catch the candids as they happen, and make sure everyone ends up in at least one group photo.
Coverage for 1–3 hours · Group portraits · Gallery of 30+ high-resolution photos
Couples & Engagements
Just the two of you on a walk somewhere pretty. Pets welcome.
60 minutes · Location guidance provided · Gallery of 30+ high-resolution photos
What to expect
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Inquire
Tell me a little about your family and the dates you have in mind.
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Plan
We’ll pick a date, a time and a spot together.
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Your session
We meet about an hour before sunset and keep things relaxed. Snack breaks encouraged.
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Your gallery
Within 5–7 business days, ready to download, print and share.
Check availability
Only the starred fields are required, but the more you tell me, the better I can plan.
Prefer email? Write to me at carlymats@gmail.com.
Kind words from families
We wouldn’t trust anyone else with our memories. Carly gives great direction, so even our most camera-shy and awkward moments turn out natural. She always finds the best lighting, and she notices every detail, down to making sure every strand of hair is in place. She makes each session feel fun all while juggling the chaos of parents trying to reel their children in when they’d much rather play in the sand! Having her capture our growing family over the years has been such a joy, and we treasure every photo.
We absolutely love working with Carly as our family photographer! It’s been so special to have her capture each of our families’ milestones. She makes every session feel personalized to our family and has such a sincere and fun approach. We love having these memories captured in such an authentic way!
Frequently asked questions
Where do sessions take place?
Anywhere in San Diego County. The beach is the most popular pick, especially Coronado, La Jolla Shores, Torrey Pines and Sunset Cliffs, but I’m just as happy in Balboa Park, up in the mountains or in your backyard. If you’re not sure, tell me what you like and I’ll send you a few options.
What time of day is best?
Usually about an hour before sunset, when the light is softest. If that’s too close to bedtime for your kids, early morning works well too.
What should we wear?
Skip the matching outfits. Choose two or three colors that go together and build from there. Linen and knits photograph really well, and a longer dress is great at the beach because it moves with the wind. Most of all, wear something you feel like yourself in.
My kids won’t sit still. Is that okay?
Totally fine, and honestly, expected. Kids are the best part. I don’t make anyone sit and smile for long. Most of the session is walking, playing and running around, and we’ll stop whenever someone needs a snack or a minute.
When should we book holiday photos?
Fall weekends fill up fast, so I’d book in September or October. You’ll have more dates to pick from and enough time to get your cards printed.
How soon will we get our photos?
Within 5–7 business days. You’ll get an email with a private link to download your full gallery.
Do you shoot film?
Yes, I shoot film by request. Pricing depends on the session, so mention it in your inquiry and I’ll send you a quote.
What if the weather doesn’t cooperate?
If it rains or the wind is really bad, we’ll move your session to the next open date, no charge. (I’ve done my share of farming in the rain. Your family doesn’t need to.)