05/12/2026
Sometimes when people ask me what I do and what I shoot, and I say “mostly families”, I get a confused head tilt, a raised eyebrow or a “wow I could never do that”. There’s a preconception that family photography is difficult because there are children involved. “How do you deal with crying? What if they don’t listen?”
For me, family sessions are my most carefree and creative shoots. The kids don’t have to listen, and mostly, they don’t cry. Because I don’t ask for stiff poses and forced smiles. I ask for giggles and cuddles and for them to show me their best dinosaur roar. I ask them to play games and I ask parents to be present with their children. What I love about family photography is that there is always an element that can’t be curated. Real human connection and emotion. There is always an unpredictable element when kids are around. They have big feelings and big opinions, but that is where the magic is. Real, authentic moments. Mom kissing a boo boo. Her little boy finding the perfect dandelion just for her. Big brother showing little sister an airplane in the sky. Everyone huddled up together against the wind.
Sure, I set us up for success. I try to control any outside factors that could add stress, and I do a lot of heavy lifting up front to guarantee gorgeous images. My families work with a personal stylist to make sure everyone not only looks good, but feels comfortable and confident. I offer an exclusive location guide so my clients can pick a spot they can picture themselves in. I send tips and tricks to prepare. So when we show up to the session there are less variables out of our control. We might have wind or a little rain, the kids might be hungry or shy or just plain grumpy. But if we can lean in to the real life feelings and situations, we can create something real and honest for your family.