Timeless Family & Newborn Photography in Charleston, SC

Family & Newborn Photography

From in-home newborn sessions to growing siblings running through the sands of South Carolina beaches, my portrait sessions have one thing in common- the focus on the sweet moments that make your family so special.

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Real, Honest Photos of 

the People You Love Most

For newborn and family photos you want the real stuff. The snuggles, giggles, and quiet in-between moments you’ll never want to forget.

Whether it’s a sleepy newborn, a playful toddler, growing teens, or a rare moment with the whole family together—I keep things relaxed and natural, so your photos reflect the connection you share.


Meet your Family and Newborn Photographer

shannon Oleksak

ABOUT ME

Charleston is our home and where I've raised my own three little ones.  The beaches and parks are both our playground and my favorite workplace.

I live just a few miles from Folly Beach and spend my days exploring Downtown Charleston, the surrounding islands, and the hidden spots families love most. It’s this familiarity that helps me create sessions that feel relaxed, natural, and true to you.

you have a

baby on the way?

Newborn sessions take place in your home and with the entire family. Dress in your softest, most neutral clothes and I’ll make a visit with my camera, just like an old friend.

book a newborn session

Newborn sessions include:

Lifestyle Poses

As opposed to the heavily-posed style of newborn photography, I focus on natural, lifestyle photographs of your little one.

All the Details

The littlest head of hair, all the fingers and toes, and baby wrinkles that go away too soon will live on forever in your newborn gallery.

Sibling Love

Include big brothers and sisters to document their age differences and their new found connection.

SHANNON! I'm crying all over again. They are beautiful. Thank you so much for everything.

—  jenae, mother

family photo session?

Planning a

Family sessions are easy, playful, and completely focused on connection. Whether we’re at the beach, the park, or your front porch in Charleston, I’ll guide you through a relaxed session that feels more like quality time than posing for the camera.

book a family session

Family sessions include:

Natural Interactions

No forced smiles here. I’ll gently guide you into movement and connection, letting your family be yourselves while I capture the moments that happen in between.


Playful, Low-Stress Flow

We keep things easy and flexible. Whether we’re exploring a Charleston park, chasing the light on the beach, or hanging out in your backyard, I’ll follow your family’s rhythm to create photos that feel honest and joyful.

Every Combination

From the whole crew to individual shots of each child, parent-child moments, and sibling hugs—I’ll document the relationships that matter most.

SHANNON CAPTURED MOMENTS WE'LL TREASURE FOR A LIFETIME.

— LAURA, mother

my WORK IS BEST DESCRIBED AS

laid back
timeless
light hearted

I’ll guide your family through a few classic poses at first, but then we focus on connection through play - in the water, through the tall grasses, and all the beautiful spots I’ve scoped out for your session.

Sessions start at $700

Let's plan your session

After yOUR sESSION:

online gallery delivery

After your session, your gallery will be delivered by e-mail with a download link to save and share with family and friends.

professional print options

Within your online gallery are print options from professional labs that are calibrated to my work and delivery the highest quality prints on luxury papers.

View my work

 newborn PORTFOLIO

My work is all about connection—the quiet moments, the real laughter, the way your baby fits perfectly in your arms. 

 family PORTFOLIO
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STYLE GUIDE

Clients often ask what colors and styles would look best for sessions - Browse this guide for inspiration on color palettes, textures, and combinations that work well in both newborn and outdoor family sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I schedule my newborn session?

Ideally within the first 2–3 weeks after birth, when babies are still extra sleepy and snuggly. But if that window passes—don’t worry! I’ve photographed newborns at all stages.

How long does a session last?

Most sessions are 45–60 minutes. Newborn sessions may take a bit longer to allow for feeding, changing, and baby snuggles.

What should we wear?

You don’t need to overthink it! I recommend soft, neutral colors and comfortable textures. Check the Style Guide section above to get visual ideas from real sessions—that’s the best place to start.

How soon will we get our gallery?

You’ll receive your full, edited gallery within 3–4 weeks, delivered through a private online link.

What if my kids don’t cooperate?

They don’t have to be perfect! I work at their pace and keep things light and flexible. Some of the best photos come from in-between moments, not posed ones.

Can we include grandparents or extended family?

Yes! Just let me know ahead of time and we’ll build that into your session plan.

ready to schedule?

Reach out for more details.

get started

After inquiring, you'll receive a reply from me with more details and to secure your date if you choose to move forward!  Looking forward to hearing from you, soon!

INQUIRE NOW

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