First Communion Portraits
Working alongside churches to preserve meaningful memories for families.
Who I Am
I’m Abigail Alanis, a professional family and sacramental photographer based in the San Jose and San Francisco Bay Area. I’ve had the privilege of working with local parishes to provide First Communion portraits in a way that is organized, respectful of church schedules, and supportive of both coordinators and families.
My goal is to make the photography process simple for the parish while offering families a meaningful way to preserve this special milestone.
Timeless, reverent portraits created on-site at the parish.
1.On-Site Setup
I provide a simple, elegant indoor photo setup. A small indoor space, such as an office, classroom, or parish room, is all that’s needed.
I’ll bring the lights, background, and everything needed to make the process run smoothly. We schedule a time to check the available space and ensure it works.
How it works
2.Organized Scheduling
Sessions are scheduled to avoid disruption and keep the process smooth for families and parish staff.
I’ll create a session scheduler to share by email with interested families. Families can book their appointments directly, and I will give them all the information for future questions.
3.Parish Communication
I provide communication emails just to be sent to interested families.
Some emails include:
Information Email, including price, dates, time and more!
Schedule Appointments, with the link to schedule appointments for interested families.
Reminder email, this will remind the families to be in time for their session and provide contact information.
Photo Timing Options
When will the photos be taken?
Both options have been successfully used in past parishes.
We can work together to decide the best option for your Parish!
1.First Communion Day
Photos taken approximately 1.5 hours before Mass. With the appointments scheduled in advance, parents can show up for a short 5-10-minute visit, and we keep the process smooth.
I’ll finish the appointments 20-30 minutes before the mass starts, so I’m not interfering with your time schedule and process.
This option works better when parents want to be part of the portraits, so everyone is dressed and ready for the mass.
2.Rehearsal Day
Photos taken during rehearsal show the children attending dressed in their First Communion attire.
We can schedule the appointments either before or after the rehearsal day, depending on the church schedule.
What the Parish Provide
I would need help from the First Communion Coordinator and Parish for 2 steps:
Find an Indoor Space for photo setup during our scheduled day.
Assistance in sending some emails to interested parents.
Giving Back to the Parish
Giving back is an important part of my work with parish communities.
I would be honored to:
• Make a donation to the church, and
• Provide three gift certificates for families who may need photos but are experiencing financial hardship.
Investment for Families
Families will have the option to choose from 3 packages that will include different poses, they can add on the Family Photo too! All products will be digital files only.
Pose A
Package 1 - $65
Include 1 Digital File of your choice (Pose A, Pose B or Pose C).
Pose B
Package 2 - $110
Include 2 Digital Files of your choice (Pose A, Pose B, or Pose C).
Pose C
Package 3 - $150
Include 3 Digital Files (Pose A, Pose B, and Pose C).
Add Family Photo - $35
Add your digital family photo to your package!
If you’re interested in learning more or seeing if this service would be a good fit for your parish, I’d love to connect.
Get In Touch
If you're interested in working with me, complete the form with a few details about your parish. I'll review your message and get back to you within 48 hours.