Why Lifestyle? {Seattle Family Photographer}

When I first started photography, I used to scroll Pinterest and Instagram looking for the perfect poses, the ones that I thought everyone wanted and expected. I would nervously show up to sessions with a metal list of every pose I thought I had to get. I would leave a session either with pride that I had captured what I needed, or I’d be kicking myself for not getting everything on my list. I ran my business like this for a while and to be honest, it was exhausting. Sessions stressed me out, but shooting my own family was a completely different story.

In January of 2015, I did a workshop all about lifestyle photography. It changed the way I photographed my kids. Instead of stressing about them being perfectly dressed and perfectly posed, I started to photograph them exactly as they were, and not only did I see a huge improvement in my photography, but I started to love and treasure the moments I was capturing for my family. Below is the first photo I took during that workshop. Nothing amazing, but just a quiet moment captured and an unposed and natural way.

I felt happy with my personal work, but I was still trying to be a “perfect” photographer when it came to my family sessions. I knew there was a huge disconnect there but I didn’t quite see why. Slowly, after lots of workshops, a ton of family sessions, and a whole lot of soul searching, I realized that I needed to relax more when I photographed families. I needed to forget about perfection and focus on the love and connection between family members. Once that happened, my whole approach to family sessions changed and I was able to start enjoying paid shoots, as much as my personal shooting. Still shooting outdoors at beaches and fields, I was happy with the direction my photography was moving, but there was something missing. I realized how much I enjoyed shooting in the home. I noticed how much personality was in a family’s home and how much more comfortable the kids (and often the parents) were in their own space. I saw the beauty in a family’s space and felt like I needed to show a family the beauty that I see in them. About a year ago, I nervously made the decision to switch over to an in home lifestyle business model. I posted a couple of model calls for in home sessions to build my portfolio, and announced on social media that I was making the switch. I felt like I was going to lose a ton of families, but the response has been better than I could have imagined. People seem to have realized the benefit of not trekking for ages to get to an epic location, they realized that there is so much beauty in their every day and that it should be celebrated. They’ve realized that there is no better backdrop than the four walls in which they are most comfortable.

If you feel that you would like you’re next family session to be held in the comfort of your own home, let’s chat. I’d love to talk to you more about this.

In Celebration of a Little Fighter {Seattle Newborn Photographer}

I adore in home lifestyle newborn sessions, but there is something so special about photographing a newborn in the NICU. These little babies are born fighting and I’m always so honored to capture this time for the family.

People often ask me if I had NICU babies and if that’s why I love to do these sessions. I didn’t. I was lucky that all three of my babies were born healthy and at full term, but as a mama, my heart breaks for these parents. I know that I don’t like to spend a minute away from my babies. I can’t imaging what their pain is like having to leave them in the hospital each night. But one day, these little babies will be back home and this time will be a distant memory. I know their mamas will look back at this time and see not only how strong their baby was, but also how strong they were.

Introducing Myles.

Waiting for Two {Seattle Maternity Photographer}

I met these two for their maternity photo session on a beautiful Fall morning at the gorgeous home in Seattle. I love old homes. There is so much character and beautiful pockets of light. This home was no exception. The light was beautiful, the mood was fun and the whole session was just so easy. This beautiful couple is about to welcome two sweet babies into their lives. They are so calm and sweet, and I know they’re going to be amazing parents.

Introducing Laurel {Seattle Newborn Photographer}

I never take the privilege lightly when a family asks me to capture them over and over again. I have adored watching this family grow over the years and it was an honor to capture them as baby Laurel was welcomed into their family in September. Laurel’s newborn session took place on a cool, wet Fall morning, much like her older brother’s newborn session 23 months earlier. When I photographed older brother, Anderson’s newborn session, I was amazed at how laid back and calm they seemed as first time parents. This time around, the mood was even more calm and relaxed, even with an almost two year old. Anderson loves his sister and he didn’t seem to have the typical jealousy that you often see with little ones. He was so happy to love on her, hold her, kiss her, and hold her hand. It was the sweetest thing to witness. I don’t think I’ve ever taken so many sibling pictures at a newborn session before! I always make sure I get plenty of images of mom alone with baby and dad alone with baby. No matter whether it’s baby number one, baby number two, or baby number ten, these images are so important. one day, that baby will be an adult and will be so glad to see how much they were loved. Thank you again for allowing me to photograph your beautiful family. You guys are naturals and you are doing an amazing job.

Turn Your Snapshots into Art {Seattle Lifestyle Photographer}

Not everyone desires to be a photographer, but almost all mamas want to take beautiful pictures of their babies. Here are some of my favorite ways to photograph children in and around the house.

Photograph them sleeping

Depending on age, children are often on the go. It can be hard to keep them still for a picture. I love photographing children while they’re sleeping. It’s easier to do this if they still take daytime naps because you have more light to work with. I love to shoot through crib rails, directly above the bed, side on, I basically move all around until I find the angle I like best.

Frame your kids

This is one of my favorite things to do to turn a boring picture into an interesting one. I love to shoot though doorways. It gives the illusion that you’re peeking in on them, as well as the doorway giving a pleasing framing effect.

Find the pretty light

Light is so important in photography and no matter how your home looks, there is always beautiful light, you just need to search for it. My living room faces east, so I know I’m going to get beautiful sunrises in there. If you see pretty light but don’t know what to do with it, try moving an activity into that area, then sit back and see what they do.

Capture their tiny details

Children go so quickly and before long, chubby hands, dimpled thighs and wispy baby hair will be no longer. Make sure you capture them before they disappear.

Look for leading lines

Lines are one of the best ways to create a visually pleasing image. Lines can lead the eye directly to the subject, or in and out of a frame. There are lines all around us, and it can be fun to pay attention to them to try and direct your viewer to where you want them to look. This is a great way to start moving towards art, rather than snapshots.

An Incredibly Special Newborn Session {Seattle Lifestyle Photographer}

It is always such an honor when a family asks me to come back for another photography session. This family is special to me for a few reasons. Their second baby was my very first lifestyle newborn session. They were my first family session (last year) after the birth of my third boy. And lastly, they are a family with three adorable little boys, and families with three little boys will always hold a special place in my heart.

I adored photographing you all again H family and I hope all is continuing to go well as you adjust to life with three.

Five Reasons to Have an In Home Session {Seattle Lifestyle Photographer}

If you’ve been following me for a while, you’ll know that in home sessions are my thing. I adore capturing families in their own space and I don’t think there’s anything more beautiful than a family embracing their every day. Here are my top reasons why I think you should consider an in home session.

The Weather

Here in the PNW, the weather over the winter months can be pretty miserable. If you have an in home session, there is no need to brave the rain, no need to stand outside in the cold, and no need to reschedule if it gets too bad.

Timing

Most outdoor shots occur in the golden hour, the hour before sunset. While this is fine in the cooler months, over summer, that means starting a session around 8.30pm. Obviously, this is incredibly late for little ones. I usually start indoor sessions around 10am. Kids are normally wide awake, and not yet ready for the afternoon nap.

Comfort of Little Ones (and Big Ones)

Small children are often overwhelmed with being in locations they are not familiar with. A photo session at home means they are in their comfort zone, the four walls in which they feel safe. Likewise, adults are often more comfortable at home too. Sometimes it can feel awkward to be having your picture taken in public with other people around.

No Long Trek

There are so many beautiful locations around Washington, but so many of them require little children to walk to get to them. If we have the session in your home, they just have to roll out of bed! No complaining that feet are tired!

Your Home is Special

Where else do you snuggle your babies to sleep, curl up in bed with them on Saturday mornings, read stories to them? Your home is the place where first steps are taken, bedtime stories are told, and memories are made. There are little pieces of you all over your house and these will become your children’s fondest memories. There really is no better place to capture your family. Your home is uniquely you and helps to tell your family’s own story.

If you would like to schedule your own in home session, please contact me here.

At Home with a Gorgeous Family of 4 {Seattle Lifestyle Photographer}

Some sessions leave me filled with so much happiness, and this sweet family session was definitely one of those. The second I walked into their gorgeous home, I knew this was going to be a session that’s up there with my all time favorites. Their home has so much character and you can tell they pay so much attention to detail. Every inch of it was beautiful. And then there’s the family. You seriously couldn’t get a sweeter family. The girls are adorable and they are so loved. Nothing felt stressed. They just played, snuggled, and interacted with their parents like I wasn’t even there. I feel like an overshare is in order…

A Fun Family Session {Seattle Lifestyle Photographer}

One thing I love most about photographing families is walking into their home and witnessing the different vibe each family has. All families love their kids an insane amount, but the level of energy, the noise level, the fun, the quiet, it all varies so much, and as beautiful as I find a calm, peaceful session, a fun, energetic session is just as beautiful to me. This family is definitely a fun, laid back family. The second I walked in the door, the girls were chatting to me and eager to be photographed. They weren’t shy at all and they were more than happy to show me their fun personalities. One thing I’ve noticed though, is that even with the high energy kids, they still need cuddles during a session. At some point, they’re going to return to the arms of their parents, their safe space, and at that point, I’m always able to sneak in some snuggly shots. I hope you enjoy this fun session!

Holiday Petite Sessions {Seattle Lifestyle Photographer}

I’m so excited to offer these this year! These will be my only petite sessions offered all year so if you want one, let’s get you on the schedule today. These will take place on the afternoon of November 18th.

FAQ

Where will these sessions be?

These sessions will take place in a bright and airy studio in Capitol Hill. The exact address will be sent in an informational email once all sessions are booked.

How long do sessions last?

These sessions are 15-20 minutes long, and will include a few different poses.

What is the purpose of these?

Most families book these to use for holiday cards.

How much are sessions?

Sessions are $200.

What is included in the price?

You will receive your session, 5 digital images, and a 40% off coupon for your holiday cards to my preferred vendor.

Do you have props?

My photography focuses on love and connection between family members, therefore, I do not feel like props are necessary. I will have a very simple green wreath that can be placed above the couch if you wanted.

What should we wear?

Whatever you’re comfortable in! Formal attire, jeans, holiday best…whatever you feel represents your family.

How do I book?

Contact me here and let me know you’re interested in a holiday session!