If you think back to when many of us were kids, and look back on your own annual family photos- the days of sitting in a dark Olan Mills studio while you held still and said cheese often comes to mind. I know it does for me; hands rested gently on my brothers shoulder while I kneeled on a faux fur stool and donned my best grin. But I am thankful, as I think most of us are, that the days of those overly staged photos are mostly behind us.

When I began working with families for their yearly photos, I went with a more relaxed, fun approach entirely. Lifestyle photography can mean many things to many people, but for me, although I still often prompt or lightly pose clients throughout a session, it represents my effort of capturing authentic and genuine emotions and moments through those prompts, and keeping families engaged and enjoying themselves throughout the process. Our children and families are changing so quickly, and this type of photography allows their unique quirks and personalities to live on for years to come.

Capturing Your Story and Real Moments Authentically

As previously mentioned, lifestyle photography is about the moments and memories, rather than the poses. When working with young children it can be difficult for them to stay still. As a mom of twin boys I understand the feeling of always being on the move. With this understanding I’ve been able to adapt the way I work with young families. I’ve implemented more play-centered activities in my sessions. This not only allows for your family to interact and be yourselves – but helps your children feel comfortable in front of the camera.

Looking back on photos from raising your children, the moments of fun play and laughter are likely the ones that bring a smile to your face. Those are your babies! Throughout my photography I try to bring those silly moments and authentic laughter to your session.

Capture Family As They Are

If I can imprint one thing upon you today, it’s that I really feel that we should alleviate yourselves and our children of the pressures of trying to have perfect children for the camera. It’s simply not realistic and honestly, I don’t want it! You and your unique family deserve to be captured as you are, without stress or pressure to be picture perfect. As I’ve focused more on a lifestyle approach for photos, the result are real life memories frozen in time, each time we work together. Lifestyle photography is the perfect way to focus on the core of your family and the bonds you share.

When you look at your family photos I want you to remember playing tag or peek-a-boo with your children. Not looking back with a grimace remembering what it took to get ‘just one good picture’. Perhaps your partner and your children have a special game they like to play, or your kids love to tickle, those are the moments I want to capture. Those are the things you’ll look back fondly on in the future.

Lifestyle Photography Isn’t About Poses

While posed photography still has it’s place, it is secondary to my process of captuing your family authentically. As I mentioned, I do direct my clients, use poses and prompts, and try to always grab a few shots of everyone looking at the camera. However, poses for me are one of many tools in my toolbox that i use to get everyone close and comfortable and having a good time! Beyond poses, I aim to create a session based on your family and your preferences. Perhaps it’s meeting at a unique location to play with your family and your dog, or hanging at home for family board game night. These sessions are about more than capturing photos of your family. It’s about strengthening familial bonds and genuine memory-making.

The beautiful thing about photography is that families now have so many options for style and setting, as well as thousands of talented photographers to assist them. As a Denver family photographer, I work with families taking outdoor photos filled with play and in-studio photos that are still super fun! There is no ‘one size fits all’ in family photos anymore, and that’s one of the many reasons I love my job.

Whether you’re in the final planning stages for an upcoming family photo session or simply want to learn more about lifestyle photography session with me, I’d love to chat! Take a peek at my availability here, or reach out to get in touch.