Though it is becoming the more desired way of photographing family events, weddings, etc, documentary photography for families still needs a little PR. I do not direct or pose your family in the slightest (unless you request a posed portrait).

That being said, I will also not be an elusive photographer. I interact with your family the entire time I am there. It is a delicate dance of socializing and photographing. Most families find that the camera eventually becomes less noticeable, even though the photographer doesn’t.

Discuss Expectations

Before your photoshoot, let’s have a conversation to discuss your goals, expectations, and any specific moments or activities you would like to document. Share insights about your family's routines, hobbies, favorite places, or any planned events to provide a better understanding of your family dynamic and values.

Plan Activities

Rather than orchestrating a list of poses and outfits, focus on planning meaningful activities that reflect your family's everyday life. This fosters more genuine moments and provides the opportunity for the photographer to capture authentic reactions and interactions. A documentary family photoshoot is about capturing things as they naturally happen so don't feel the need to stage a ‘perfect’ home.

Outfits

You definitely don't need matching outfits, but it helps to avoid loud patterns or logos that may distract from the essence of the image. Ultimately, choose clothing that makes your family feel comfortable and reflects your personal style.

Trust Your Photographer!

Remember that you hired a professional photographer for a reason. My job is to not only produce beautiful images but to make you feel at ease as I make them.

In order to produce more natural photographs of your family, it can take time for everyone to let their guard down. Both around me, and the camera. Especially your kiddos who may feel the need to interact with the camera much more in the beginning until they start to forget it’s there.

No problem! I always leave time for a few posed portraits.

If there is an outdoor activity that has been planned that is essential to your family for the photoshoot to be considered a meaningful success, we can discuss rescheduling.

Otherwise, we should have a rainy-day backup plan such as sticking to an in-home photoshoot, or if you are on vacation, making sure that we have a place to retreat if the weather turns.