PLAY.
My son has been the best teacher I could have asked for when it comes to photographing little kids. Being his mom has given me a heart for any parent or caregiver watching their kids grow up in the blink of an eye and wanting something lasting to remember each stage of life. Oliver also hates having his photo taken…which in turn has taught me how to better engage with kids and make family photography sessions fast-paced when they need to be, with lots of games and time to run around. We’ll take the time to feel comfortable, wander to find the best sticks in the woods, or play tag and make some beautiful pictures together.
WAIT.
Kids will fall and scratch their knee. Diapers will be changed. Babies will be fed. The beauty and struggle of being a family photographer who loves working with little ones is that you’re at the mercy of their timeline, which is anything but predictable. But in moments of letting kids show off their stuffies, get a hug from mom when they fall down, and pick up every stick at the park, I get to photograph beautiful candid moments you’ll absolutely love and adore.
I always come in to each session expecting that kids will need breaks and babies will need to be rocked or fed to be soothed. Please don’t feel rushed, stressed, or embarrassed - be yourself and enjoy spending time with your family.
PREPARE.
Choose a time of day when your kids are the happiest! Sunset light is beautiful, but no amount of glowing light will make a crabby, tired 2-year-old look happy. Pick clothes that are comfortable and you can move around in, perhaps grab flats instead of heels if you might be chasing around a kiddo. Whether it’s ice cream after the shoot or getting to go out for pizza, I’ve heard lots of bribes and will pass zero judgment. And perhaps grab a friend or family member who your kids adore to help make funny faces or hold onto the family dog while it’s people-only picture time!
