Location
Farmingdale, New York
If you’ve ever tried to get your family together for a photo, you already know getting everyone dressed, on time, and in the mood can feel like an Olympic sport. Moms, you’re often the one making it all happen: coordinating outfits, bribing kids to cooperate, and convincing your partner it’ll “only take an hour.”
But here’s the truth: it doesn’t have to feel like work. Family photos can be relaxed, joyful, and even… fun. You just need the right approach, and that’s where I come in.
Start With Low-Pressure Prep
In the days leading up to your session, keep conversations about it light. Instead of telling the kids, “We have a photoshoot, so you need to behave,” frame it as something exciting: “We’re going to hang out together, play, and have some fun while someone takes our pictures.” This helps shift their mindset from “I have to” to “I get to.”
When it comes to clothing, choose comfortable, well-fitting outfits that your family actually enjoys wearing. If they feel good in their clothes, they’ll look more at ease in the images. I’m always happy to help coordinate colors and textures so everything feels cohesive without looking too “matchy.”
Let Go of the Perfect
The magic in family photography often lives in the unplanned moments: your toddler’s laugh, your teen’s eye roll-turned-smile, your partner brushing hair out of your face. I don’t expect, or want, everyone to sit perfectly still. I’ll guide your family into natural interactions, giving you space to connect while I quietly capture it all.
If something goes “off-script” (a spill, a meltdown, a crooked bow tie), we work with it. Sometimes those imperfect moments end up being the most cherished images.
Trust the Flow
Before the session, I’ll share a simple guide on what to expect, from arrival to final goodbyes, so there are no surprises. Once we begin, you can stop playing “director” and just be present. I’ll take the lead on positioning, prompts, and keeping the energy calm.
With younger kids, we’ll move quickly and keep things playful. With older kids and adults, I’ll create space for more thoughtful, connected moments. My job is to meet your family where they are, so we can make the process feel natural for everyone.
Keep Snacks (and Patience) on Hand
No one, not kids, not adults, is at their best when they’re hungry. A small snack or drink beforehand can make all the difference in mood and energy. And if patience runs thin during the shoot, that’s okay. We’ll pause, reset, and keep going without pressure.
Focus on the Experience, Not Just the Photos
Yes, the end goal is beautiful images to hang on your walls, but the session itself is part of the memory. When you relax, your family follows your lead. And when you all let go of “perfect,” that’s when we capture something real.
Family photography should feel like a gift, not a chore. My goal is to make it easy for you to show up, be yourself, and walk away with images that reflect not just how you looked but also how you felt together in this moment of your lives.
Inquire Now, and let’s create family portraits that feel effortless, joyful, and true to you.
