Heirloom Portraits
Classic studio portraits of children, printed and framed by hand to be passed down for generations.
What is an heirloom portrait?
An heirloom is something of value passed from one generation to the next. An heirloom portrait is a classic studio portrait of a child, printed on archival paper and framed by hand. It is not a file on a phone. It is fine art for your walls today and your children's walls one day.
Families have commissioned portraits of their children for centuries, first painted by hand and later made in the studio. Nearly every Southern home once had one on the mantel. The heirloom portrait is a return to that tradition.
SaveWhat makes a portrait an heirloom?
SaveTraditional wardrobe
Smocked dresses, bubbles and Peter Pan collars that never tie a portrait to one year.
SaveControlled lighting
Studio light that shapes your child's features and preserves every detail.
SaveAttention to detail
A sincere expression, gentle posture and the way they hold their hands.
SaveArchival materials
Archival paper, conservation glass and a frame built by hand.
What to expect
SavePlan
Your photographer helps you choose the wardrobe and where the portrait will hang.
SaveSession
A calm studio session, guided from start to finish.
SaveDesign
Choose your favorites and design the finished piece for your home.
SaveDeliver
Printed and framed by hand, then delivered to you.
What is the best age for heirloom portraits?
There is no wrong age. Most families begin when their baby can sit up alone, around six to nine months, and return at each new chapter.
SaveBaby
6 to 12 months
SaveToddler
1 to 3 years
SaveEarly childhood
3 to 6 years
SaveThe in-between years
6 to 10 years
SaveComing of age
10 years and up
What should my child wear?
Classic heirloom clothing is a beautiful tradition, but it’s never a requirement. Simple, timeless pieces from your child’s own closet work beautifully too.
Choose
- White, ivory and soft neutrals
- Smocked dresses and hand embroidery
- Peter Pan and round collars
- Bubbles, rompers and day gowns
Avoid
- Logos, characters and slogans
- Bold prints and bright colors
- Anything tied to this year
- Large bows that pull the eye from the face
AN INVESTMENT IN WHAT LASTS
An heirloom is not hundreds of images saved to a phone. It is a few portraits, chosen with care, printed on archival paper and framed by hand to hang in your home for generations. Most families invest $1,500 to $2,500 for a session and their finished heirlooms.
Frequently asked questions
Who are heirloom portraits for?
Families who value tradition and want something that lasts. They are most often made of babies and young children, and are just as meaningful for siblings and older children.
What if my child is shy or fussy?
That is completely normal. Sessions are calm and unhurried, and your photographer is used to working at your child's pace.
Can siblings be photographed together?
Yes. Many families choose individual portraits of each child along with one of the siblings together.
How long does an heirloom portrait last?
Printed on archival paper and framed behind conservation glass, it is made to last well over a hundred years when kept out of direct sunlight.
Can I have a painted portrait made?
Yes. Our artists draw pastel portraits and pencil sketches by hand from your child's portrait, and each one is framed in our shop.
Do I receive digital files?
Heirloom portraits are delivered as finished, framed artwork. Ask your photographer about digital files for sharing.
Where can I find an heirloom portrait photographer?
Search by zip code to find an Heirloom Certified photographer near you.