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L. Severson Portraits

Carmel's Portrait Photographer for Newborn, Maternity, Family & Boudoir

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Family Photographer in Carmel, IN

 

Serving Indianapolis, Westfield, Noblesville & Zionsville for 25+ Years

family poses for christmas mini photoshoot carmel
family poses in front of farmhouse in Westfield for family portrait
family poses for christmas mini photoshoot carmel
family poses in front of farmhouse in Westfield for family portrait

Photography Featured In

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Let’s Plan Your Photoshoot
 

Award-Winning Family Photography in Carmel & Beyond

 

I’m Leah Severson, a portrait photographer based in Carmel, Indiana with 25+ years photographing families across the Indianapolis area. My sessions are relaxed and unhurried — equal parts posed portraits and candid moments, so you end up with images that actually look like your family.

I work with families at every stage, from toddlers who won’t sit still to teenagers who think they’re too cool for photos — many of whom come back for senior portraits a few years later. Many of my family clients started with me as a newborn or maternity client and have never left. Whether we shoot at a favorite Carmel park or your own backyard, I specialize in outdoor family portraits that you’ll want on your walls for decades. Families across Westfield, Noblesville, Zionsville, and Indianapolis have trusted me for over two decades — I’d love to do the same for yours.

 
Family posing for portrait near Carmel Carter Green
Family smiling during photoshoot in Carmel against Fall golden nature
two adult children pose for Christmas mini photoshoot at Carmel City Hall

Best Locations in Carmel for Your Family Portraits

Not sure where to shoot? Here are my favorite spots for families in the Carmel and Indianapolis area.

Coxhall Gardens

One of my absolute favorites. The rolling lawns, manicured gardens, and open fields give us endless variety in a single session. Beautiful year-round.

Central Park Carmel

Wide open green spaces, beautiful tree lines, and a relaxed atmosphere that lets kids be kids. Families love it here and it shows in every shot.

Downtown Carmel

The Arts and Design District gives us beautiful architecture, brick walls, and urban charm. A great choice for families who want something a little different from the typical park session.

The Palladium

The grand steps and classic architecture of the Palladium make for incredibly elegant family portraits. Timeless, sophisticated, and unlike anywhere else in Carmel.

Village of West Clay

Charming tree-lined streets, beautiful sidewalks, and a neighborhood feel that makes families look completely at ease. A hidden gem for portrait sessions in Carmel.

Newfields Indianapolis

The lush grounds and gardens at Newfields offer a stunning backdrop for family portraits. A favorite for families who want something a little more lush and garden-inspired.

Have a favorite spot in mind? I’m always open to shooting somewhere meaningful to your family. Let’s talk.

Simple, Transparent Pricing for Family Portraits in Carmel and Beyond

Most Popular

Full Session

$549

Plenty of time, zero rushing.

  • Full family or children’s session
  • 24 beautifully retouched portraits
  • Private online proof gallery
  • Full reprint rights included
Book This Session

Extended family add-on available for $50

Quick & Beautiful

Mini Session

$399

The sweet spot for busy families.

  • Family or children’s portrait session
  • 10 beautifully retouched portraits
  • Private online proof gallery
  • Full reprint rights included
Book This Session

Extended family add-on available for $50

25 Years of Happy Families in Carmel & Indianapolis

Real families. Real moments. Real memories.

★★★★★

“We had a large group plus several smaller group poses and she handled the session very smoothly — wonderful with small kids involved. We’re all pleased with the photos and the whole experience!”

Sharon Racke

Google Review

★★★★★

“From our two sons’ infant and toddler pics to now senior and family pictures, Leah is the best. We’ve used her for years. The sessions are quick and effortless. We can even bring our dog!”

Stephanie Ray

Google Review

★★★★★

“Leah has been photographing my family for 15 years. She has perfectly captured my daughters’ personalities in every photo. Professional, easy to work with, and makes every session fun!”

Sarah Stewart

Google Review

★★★★★

“Leah makes it easy by giving you all the info you need to make your shoot go smoothly — including outfit and color scheme suggestions. She gives you a lot of pictures to choose from and they all look amazing!”

Jen Hand

Google Review

★★★★★

“Leah has taken portraits of my family on multiple occasions over the last 10 years. She always captures us at our best. She always accomplishes what we ask for and delivers above and beyond.”

Brooke McKay

Google Review

★★★★★

“Leah did an amazing job! We absolutely love our pictures. She is professional and fun. The quality of the photos are amazing!”

Blair Jones

Google Review

Let’s Plan Your Photoshoot
 
Family photographer Leah Severson in Carmel Indiana

Meet Family & Children’s Photographer Leah Severson

I’ve been photographing family portraits in Carmel and Indianapolis for over 25 years, and I truly love what I do.

Capturing real, honest moments that you’ll want on your walls for years is what I’m all about. Every family is different, and I work hard to make sure your portraits actually look like you — not a posed, stiff version of you.

I’d love to photograph your family. Let’s make some great memories together.

 
 
 

FAQs about your Family Portrait Session

 

How much does a family photographer cost in Carmel, IN?

Family portrait sessions at L. Severson Portraits start at $399 for a mini session and $549 for a full session. Both include beautifully retouched digital portraits with full reprint rights. Extended family sessions are available for an additional $50.

Where do you shoot family portraits in the Carmel & Indianapolis area?

I shoot on location throughout Carmel, Indianapolis, Westfield, Noblesville, and Zionsville. Popular spots include Coxhall Gardens, Central Park in Carmel, and the Monon Trail area. I’ll help you choose the perfect location once you book.

What should we wear for family portraits?

Choose a coordinated color palette of 2-3 complementary colors — think navy, cream, and soft green rather than everyone in matching outfits. Avoid busy patterns and logos. Timeless, classic clothing always photographs better than trendy pieces you might regret in five years. I send all clients a detailed style guide after booking.

When is the best time of year for family portraits in Indianapolis?

Summer is my favorite season for family portraits — long evenings give us plenty of flexibility, kids are out of school so scheduling is easy, and the lush green backdrops around Carmel and Indianapolis are beautiful. That said, I shoot year-round and fall books up fast if you want those classic autumn colors.

Can we bring our dog to our family portrait session?

Absolutely — pets are family too! Several of my most treasured client portraits include the family dog. Just let me know when you book so we can plan accordingly.

Do you photograph extended families and large groups?

Yes! I photograph extended families regularly — grandparents, cousins, the whole crew. Large group sessions are available for an additional $50 and I’m experienced at organizing and directing big groups efficiently, even with small kids involved.

What if it rains on the day of our session?

No problem — we can either reschedule or move the session to my Carmel studio, whichever you prefer. I’ll always work with you to make sure you get beautiful portraits regardless of Indiana’s unpredictable weather.

How far in advance should I book a family photographer in Carmel, IN

I recommend booking 4 to 6 weeks out for spring and winter sessions. Summer and fall book up much faster, especially August through October, so 2 to 3 months ahead is smart if you have a specific date in mind. If you’re hoping for holiday card photos, don’t wait until October to reach out.

 

Some of My Favorite Family & Children’s Photographs in Carmel

3 boys pose in field for family photos in fall
brother and sister in front of flowers posing for family portrait
teenage girl outdoor portrait session
family standing together outside white farmhouse
casual family portrait session with young children in Carmel
extended family fall portraits in autumn foliage
two young brothers sitting together on brick patio in Carmel for pictures
little sisters in matching dresses spring portrait session
teenage girl portrait in fall leaves Carmel Indiana
3 sisters pose at Carmel city hall for outdoor family portrait
little boy laughing during portrait session Carmel
high school senior boy outdoor portrait Indianapolis
3 sister pose for outdoor family portraits in the summer
two young children plosing in Carmel garden
father and teenage daughter studio portrait near Carmel, Indiana
family of five outdoors with baby golden hour fields
family portrait with teenage kids and dog outdoors
young boy smiling outdoor portrait brick background
mother and teenage daughters outdoor portrait session in Carmel
young girl smiling outdoor portrait fall light
3 sibings pose against stone building for portrait in Carmel
senior girl close up portrait natural light
little girl laughing outdoors summer portrait

Why Carmel Families Choose Leah

Experience, trust, and portraits your family will love for decades.

25+ Years Experience

Leah has been photographing families in Carmel and Indianapolis for over two decades. That experience shows in every single portrait.

150+ Five Star Reviews

Hundreds of Carmel and Indianapolis families have trusted Leah with their portraits and loved the results. Read their stories above.

Carmel Studio Location

Conveniently located just north of Indianapolis, the studio is an easy drive for families throughout Carmel, Westfield, Noblesville, and Zionsville./p>

Outdoor & Studio Sessions

Whether you prefer a beautiful outdoor location or the comfort of the studio, Leah shoots both and will help you choose what’s right for your family.

Full Reprint Rights Included

Every session includes full reprint rights. Print as many copies as you like, share freely, and enjoy your portraits for years without restrictions.

Extended Families Welcome

Grandparents, cousins, the whole crew — Leah regularly photographs large extended family groups and knows exactly how to keep things moving even with little ones involved.

L. Severson Photography

101 Monon Blvd Unit 1B

Carmel, IN 46032

317-867-3723

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Maternity Photography

Newborn Photography

Baby + Cake Smash Photoshoots 

Family Portraits 

Senior Portraits

Boudoir Photography

 

 

Indianapolis, IN

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