A Virginia Beach Military Homecoming Photographer
Let’s Explore:
The Benefits to Having Your Reunion Captured,
How to Book a Homecoming Photographer,
The Process Day-Of the Homecoming
– Based in Norfolk, Virginia – Serving Hampton Roads Area for Homecomings –
The moment a loved one returns from military deployment is filled with emotion, anticipation, and joy. It’s a chapter of your life that deserves to be remembered. As a Virginia Beach photographer, I believe capturing military homecomings is not just about getting “the photo,” but about preserving the feeling of a truly special moment. Here are a few reasons why having your military homecoming documented is a choice you will not regret, as well as what to expect the day of the homecoming!
Let’s Talk About:
The Benefits of Capturing Your Reunion
IT ALLOWS YOU TO FOCUS ON THE MOMENT
Military homecomings are emotional whirlwinds, and understandably, you want to enjoy every second. By entrusting a professional photographer to capture the day, you can focus entirely on the moment and your loved ones. Relieve yourself of the pressure to document each second on your own. Instead, embrace the experience, knowing that I will be there to capture those first hugs and overwhelming emotions.
THE MEMORIES YOU EXPERIENCE, FOREVER CAPTURED
The homecoming date will pass, but the photos captured allows you to revisit the emotions and memories of your military homecoming whenever you wish. These images become keepsakes that tell the story of your reunion. The genuine emotions that words often fail to express. Having a homecoming photographer allows the memories you experienced will be displayed for future generations to understand the significance and joy of that day.
THIS IS THE MOST AUTHENTIC VERSION OF YOURSELVES
Let’s not forget the joy that comes with having your photos taken! A military homecoming is a reason to celebrate, and capturing the day adds an element of fun and excitement. Whether it’s the candid shot of your first hug or the moments of anticipation with friends and family, these photos will become a reminder of the happiness and relief that comes with being reunited. These photos are not posed or staged; they are the most authentic version of your yourselves, celebrating the love and resilience that carried you through the deployment.
The Process of Booking Your Homecoming Date
Living in Norfolk, Virginia, I often have the privilege of capturing military homecomings. To ensure these memories are captured with limited stress, I’ve created a specific homecoming photography package designed to meet the unique needs of military families. Here’s what you can expect from this package:
A Photographer with Base Access: Having a photographer with base access is crucial for capturing the complete homecoming experience without worry. As a spouse to a Navy sailor, I have access to local military bases including Norfolk Naval Base, allowing me to be present the entire time.
Around 4 Hours of Photography: Your homecoming package includes approximately four hours of photography coverage time. This covers the long waiting period from the ship pulling in to the moment your loved one disembarks, the moment of reunion, and a brief photo session to capture the initial excitement. I aim to capture every moment, including the pre and post reunion emotions.
A Full Day “On Call”: The package includes a full day “on call,” meaning I am entirely dedicated to your homecoming, and you will be my only client for that day. Whether your loved one arrives in the morning, afternoon, or evening, I will be ready and available to capture the moment. Any last-minute changes will be accommodated, such as flight delays or military extensions.
The current price for the homecoming photography package is set at $500 as of 2025. This includes all the services mentioned above and a gallery of photographs delivered within two weeks of the homecoming date. A small gallery of sneak peek photos will be sent within 48 hours post reunion.
For those who wish to extend their photography experience, there is an option to add a standard 45-minute session. This can be scheduled for later the same day or within the week following the homecoming, providing an opportunity for more posed and relaxed photos.
Day Of Homecoming: What to Expect
For homecomings at Norfolk Naval Base, I make it a priority to arrive well ahead of schedule to avoid the traffic at the gates. I’ll start by capturing the ship as it pulls in and docks, if applicable. If your loved one is among the first to disembark, like new parents often are, I’ll capture those moments as they unfold. The waiting period is often the longest part, but the joy and anticipation make every second worthwhile.
Once your loved one finally steps off the ship, the anticipation turns into this beautiful reunion. This is the best part, full of hugs, tears, and laughter. I want to capture these real emotions so you have a memory to hold onto forever.
After the initial reunion, we can move closer to the ship for a quick session, typically lasting 10-15 minutes. This time allows us to capture the joy and excitement before your service member is ready to beat the traffic and head HOME!
With the full day “on call,” there’s flexibility to capture additional moments, such as a 45-minute session later in the day or week. This offers a chance to document your family in a more relaxed setting, perhaps at home or a favorite location.
Booking a homecoming photography session ensures that these cherished moments are captured with care and attention. If you’re considering documenting your loved one’s return, I would be honored to be part of your special day. Please feel free to reach out for more information or to schedule your session. Let’s create beautiful memories together that you will treasure for a lifetime.
Check Out A Military Homecoming Gallery Here
Contact Me to Book Your Homecoming Ship
Let me help you capture your family and love story in Virginia! Reach out to me, tell me your vision, and let’s capture some memories for you that will last a LIFETIME! It’s time to invest in yourself, and making sure your life story is photographed.
Hey, I’m Karlie! A Wedding and Lifestyle Photographer, based in Norfolk, Virginia, and serving all of Virginia, Maryland, and beyond. I travel all around the East Coast for weddings and sessions. Interested in securing a date on my calendar? You found the right place!
All Photos by: Karlie Whitt Photography
