Every family I meet has the same anxiety about taking photos. After years as a lifestyle family photographer in Orange County, my answers haven’t changed, and they’ve never failed a family yet. I’m sharing the most common questions I receive here so you feel settled before we ever meet.
If the idea of a photographer who follows your family’s lead instead of forcing a moment is what you’ve been looking for, I’m so glad we’ve finally found each other.
Working with a lifestyle family photographer in Orange County
What should we wear?
Instead of looking for inspiration online for what to wear to your family session, start with your closet. What colors do you gravitate towards? Does your family wear bright colors, or do you enjoy mostly neutrals? If it’s mixed, we can find a happy medium. Clothes you actually wear will look great mixed with some newer pieces. I can help you coordinate some family outfits, and I can even offer my personal stylist to really help you pull a cohesive look you will love.
What if my kids don’t cooperate?
Kids will be kids and I absolutely love their energy. At a certain age, they can be so unfiltered and free of judgement. It’s why they have become my favorite subject matter to photograph. Combined with your love and support, allowing the kids to be themselves always produces some of your favorite moments. My sessions are built for a little bit of playful chaos combined with calm and intimate family moments.
What do we actually do during our family session?
For at-home sessions: I arrive on time and have you walk me through your house. We pick some rooms together that you feel comfortable photographing in and find all the good light. I’ll prep you by asking you to focus on each other, don’t wait for my permission to move, these are moving images after all, and then we begin. I will keep track of the time, but it’s also fun to get lost in the moment a bit. We will move casually throughout your home in about an hour or two. I repeat this same process for outdoor sessions, and studio sessions. If there’s a gorgeous backdrop that I think will add to your gallery, I’ll position you and then let you move within that space. Other than that, I gently step back and let you have your time with your family.
Can we just take our family photos at home?
Yes! I highly recommend at-home sessions for families with smaller kids that are just learning to walk and for newborns. For new parents, it can be stressful to get everyone out the door. Even if you think your home isn’t photo worthy or “ready”, trust me, it is. I can see the vision even if you can’t. A few small rooms, corners, some good light, snacks nearby for the kiddos sets the scene for a perfectly stress-free family at home session.
How do you help families not look awkward?
It’s easier than you think it is. I just need to get you in front of my camera so I can show you this way of taking lifestyle family photos. After years as a lifestyle family photographer in Orange County and beyohnd, I’ve found a little bit of movement helps. Think of how relaxed you feel when you dance, or do yoga. Movement creates flow in people’s bodies and kids are experts at it. It’s why I like to say follow their lead.
Ready to book with a lifestyle family photographer in Orange County?
Finding the right photographer online can feel overwhelming, I try to make that part easy for you. As a mom, I know how much these photos mean to you. They mean just as much to me.
If you want to talk through your vision first, I’m always available for a quick phone consultation. You can also get a feel for my work through my portfolio and behind-the-scenes on Instagram. When you’re ready, I photograph families seeking lifestyle family photography in Irvine, Orange County, Laguna Beach and Costa Mesa. My booking page has all available dates and times ready for you.
