Let’s talk about this photo for a second. First off, I adore it. I mean, how cute is this West Coast family in this West Coast setting on a perfect Fall day? This is the “Christmas Card Photo.” I stole that term from My Four Hens Photography because I seriously can’t think of a better name for it. I always shoot this near the beginning of our time together (while I still hold some “new grown-up” sway with the kids and they somewhat follow my direction).

But here is the thing. I like to take this ONE photo and then step back with minimal direction for the rest of the time. I will say things like, “What if daddy put you up on his shoulders for a ride now?” Or, “Oh no… mom and dad are going to tickle you!” One of my favourite things to do is ask everyone to snuggle in close and say some kind words to each other because why not take advantage of this time together and feed into your family in a positive way? Family photos do not have to be a completely dreaded experience – I promise!

I have clients that truly just want posed image after posed image, and I mean, that’s totally okay for them to want that. However, photos can be so much MORE. They can freeze in time not only what you look like, but how you love each other. Let me show you what it looks like for a family to just BE together on a shoot, because this family rocked that!