Licensed and Insured
Orlando family photographer creating warm, natural portraits for families, couples, and graduates.
The Future You're Building
Graduate Photography
Modern, personality‑filled senior sessions.
A Love That Lasts
Couples photography
Sunset sessions, anniversaries, and intimate storytelling.
The Days That Shape Us
Family photography
Warm, natural portraits for families in Orlando and Central Florida.
The Promise You Choose
Courthouse weddings
Thoughtful coverage of intimate Orlando courthouse ceremonies.
The Moments That "Stay"
pet photography
Playful, heartfelt portraits of the pets you love.
Because every family has a story worth preserving.
Testimonials
"Shay made our anniversary session feel so easy and natural. We loved her suggestions for the location and different poses; she really has an eye for detail. The pictures captured "us" so perfectly in our candid moments, and we're so grateful to have these memories to hold onto forever."
Jeff & Karen
Testimonials
"Shay was incredibly professional and pleasant to work with. My daughter can lose focus fairly easily during these kinds of events and tasks, but Shay was able to redirect her in a fun and playful way. She was able to capture the love and silliness of my family in a single session. I really appreciate the time, effort, and creativity that was put in because the results came out phenomenal."
The Kophamers
Testimonials
"Amazing experience and highly recommend! Did an outdoor photoshoot with my mini–Australian Shepard at a beautiful park location Shay recommended and she captured my fur baby perfectly! Thankful to have these moments captured in photos I can always look back on! Shay is great to work with, kind and very skilled in her craft! Thank you again! "
Zelda & Sierra
Testimonials
"Shay is so insanely talented!! I was not expecting any good shot as having a moody preteen and a chaotic threenager can be rough. It felt like I was running all over trying to make sure I got in pictures with my babies as well. Shay was so so SO patient and understanding, kept everything professional and fun! Even asked if there was any kind of shots I wanted that we didn’t do. She sent me my pictures and OH MY GOSH this woman is MAGICAL. Literally the pictures feel like they’re from a fairytale because how on earth did she manage these amazing shots?! I will definitely be returning to her soon for family pictures etc. because oh my gosh her skill set is perfect. Plus it always helps that she was so bubbly, understanding, patient, and even arrived before the shot to make sure everything was perfect prior. I will recommend her to everyone I can. Because ahhhh! Thank you SO MUCH for capturing such phenomenal photos of my babies and I for my Mother’s Day shoot / mommy and me. I don’t think I can truly put into words how spectacular she was- so I’ll leave it at that."
Jackie, Bella & Ollie
What to Expect
A relaxed session that feels like time together, rather than a transaction. Gentle guidance, warm connection, and heirloom artwork designed to live beautifully in your home.
honest moments, thoughtfully preserved
Welcome to Shay Mckay Photography
Your memories are more than moments. They are the threads that weave your family’s history, the unassuming details that shape who you are, and the stories that deserve to be held close. I believe those stories should live where they can be seen and felt, not tucked away on a hard drive or forgotten on the cloud.
My work is rooted in honoring the people and moments that matter most. Through printed artwork, your memories become part of your home: filling your walls with warmth, connection, and the legacy you are building. Each piece is created with intention, care, and a deep respect for the history you carry.
This is about preserving what you love and celebrating where you come from. It is about giving your story a place to live in the open, so it can be remembered for generations.
Why Printed Artwork Matters
Printed artwork is at the heart of my work as an Orlando family photographer. A big part of my story is that I did not have a wedding photographer, and the only photos I had were digital images taken by guests. Over time, those files were lost, and with them the memories of a day I can never recreate. I never want my clients to experience that. Printed artwork gives your family something real and lasting. Albums, framed prints, and fine art pieces become part of your home and your history, preserving your story in a way that technology cannot.
Your Questions, Answered
Frequently Asked Questions About Orlando Photography Sessions
How far in advance should we book?
Most families book 4–8 weeks in advance. Fall and holiday sessions fill quickly, so earlier is always better.
What should we wear for an Orlando family or couples session?
Soft, neutral tones photograph beautifully and keep the focus on your connection. I recommend avoiding bold logos or busy patterns. If you’d like help choosing outfits, I’m happy to offer guidance or share color palettes that work well in our locations.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes. Payment plans are available for artwork and full galleries to make the process simple and accessible.
Where do your Orlando photography sessions take place?
I photograph families, couples, and graduates throughout Orlando and the surrounding areas. Sessions can take place at the beach, local parks, your home, or any location that feels meaningful to you. I’m always happy to suggest spots with beautiful light and plenty of room for natural moments.
What time of day is best for photos at the beach or in Orlando parks?
The softest and most flattering light happens during sunrise or sunset. These times create the warm, glowing tones you see throughout my work. Midday sessions are available if needed, but golden hour is always the most magical.
Do you help with posing, or is everything candid?
I guide you just enough to help you feel comfortable, then let the natural moments unfold. You’ll never feel stiff or overly posed. My goal is to create images that feel honest, relaxed, and true to your family.
What happens if my kids don’t want to cooperate during the session?
Little ones are full of personality, and that is part of the magic. And as a mom of two littles, I totally get it! I work with their energy rather than against it. We take breaks, play, explore, and keep things light. Some of the most meaningful images come from these in‑between moments.
Can we purchase digital files?
Digital files are not offered as a standalone product. Any artwork you purchase includes a matching social‑media‑sized digital file for sharing online. This keeps the focus on creating meaningful, tangible pieces for your home while still giving you something to enjoy digitally.
Do you offer pet photography sessions?
Absolutely! I love photographing pets and the special bond they share with their families. Pet sessions are relaxed, playful, and designed to capture your animal’s personality in a natural, heartfelt way.
From June 1 through August 31, I offer a seasonal experience called The Dog Days of Summer Special. During this time, 10% of all artwork sales from pet sessions is donated to Osceola Animal Services to support local animals in need. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate your pet while giving back to the community.
Do you photograph courthouse weddings in Orlando?
Yes. Courthouse weddings are some of my favorite celebrations. I photograph ceremonies at the Orange County Courthouse and nearby locations for portraits afterward.
Do you photograph extended families or multi‑family groups?
Yes. Extended family sessions are available and include a mix of group portraits, individual families, and candid moments. Larger groups may require an upgraded session to allow enough time.
Do you offer albums, framed prints, or wall art?
Yes. I offer heirloom albums, framed prints, and fine art pieces designed to last for generations. Each product is sourced with quality and longevity in mind.
ready to plan your session?
Stories from the Heart of Central Florida
Beyond the camera, every session is a unique chapter of a family's history. Here on the blog, I share a peek behind the lens of recent Orlando portrait sessions, location guides for the best parks in Winter Park and Lake Nona, and helpful tips on what to wear for your upcoming shoot. Grab a cup of coffee and explore my latest family stories, milestone celebrations, and helpful resources designed to make your session completely effortless.
