Just about everyone has a phone in their pocket these days and picture-taking is now an everyday part of life. How often, though, do you actually put on something you love to wear, round up your entire family and capture moments together? Is one of you always extending your arm all the way out so that everyone’s face is the frame? Is someone usually caught mid-yawn or rolling their eyes?

As a mom of three kids from ages 3 to 14, I can say for sure that most days they want nothing to do with my camera. “Mom, STOP!!!” is something I hear often, and you probably do, too.

Here’s a secret: When you book a family photographer something kind of magical happens. Everyone is nice. Yep. It’s an odd phenomenon we photographers carry around with us. It’s not fairy dust (although how COOL would that be?) It’s just that I love what I do and that happy energy radiates all around and makes kids…wait for it…cooperate!

Regardless of their ages, kids react differently to a new person. They’re curious and perhaps a bit hesitant so I find that almost everyone (even some grumpy dads - you know who you are) will accommodate my request when I ask, “Can everyone get really close to Mom as if you’re squeezing the air out between all of you?”

So what can you expect when you reserve a date for a Family Session with me? You can expect to relax and enjoy some time with your family. No phones, no screentime, no chaotic drop-offs to sports or violin lessons. Just you and your favorite people taking a break from your hectic routine, capturing this season of life.

What’s my style? Somewhere between lifestyle and documentary photography. What that means is that I make room in every session to capture posed and spontaneous moments. And NOT posed in the way you might remember from school picture day when you had to sit on that uncomfortable stool while the photographer fluffed your hair and tilted your chin up, down and all around for the perfect angle. Nope. We are not doing that. Posing will feel natural and relaxed.

What to wear? Wear clothes that make you feel good, that are comfortable and extra points for colorful. You’ll want to be able to sit easily if I say for example, “OK guys, everyone have a seat on the grass.”

Where does a session take place? I offer either in-home or outdoor sessions. In-home sessions are a great way to make memories where everyone spends the most time. I take both posed and documentary-style photos while you all engage in an activity such as cooking, reading, playing soccer in the yard. Whatever you enjoy doing as a family can be a part of your session. And if you’d like a classic shot or two of everyone smiling and looking at the camera, we can do that as well!

Outdoor sessions take place at a local park, beach or a special spot that you enjoy. Want to take a walk in the woods? A stroll through town to the ice cream shop? There are many options!

How long does a session last? Sessions last about an hour. Sometimes a bit longer if the light is amazing and everyone is still enjoying the session.

What NOT to expect? Stiff and uncomfortable posing and a scary photographer who barks orders at everyone.

Most of all I hope you’ll remember that the real, honest, beautifully imperfect moments are so worth capturing.