Why Family Photo Sessions Don’t Have to Be Stressful (And Can Even Be Fun!)

Hey mama,

If the thought of scheduling a family photo session makes your head spin—you’re not alone. As a mom of three boys (including 3-year-old twins and an 8-year-old!), I totally get it. Between naps, snack times, trying to coordinate outfits (without a toddler meltdown), and working around your or your partner’s schedule, it can feel like one more thing on your endless to-do list.

But here’s the truth: it doesn’t have to be stressful. It can actually be a beautiful, meaningful, and dare I say—fun—experience.

As a Jacksonville and St. Augustine family photographer, I’ve worked with countless families, and I’m here to tell you: it’s not about perfection. It’s about capturing real life. Because that’s what matters.

Real Life > Perfect Poses

Let me tell you something as both a family photographer and a mom—those “perfect” photos where everyone is smiling at the camera are lovely (and yes, we’ll get a few of those!), but the magic happens in the in-between. The giggles. The snuggles. The silly faces. The real, unfiltered you.

You know what? That’s what you’ll remember.

When you get your images made into an album or wall art (and trust me—you should!), you’ll cherish the smiling photo, but your eyes will linger on the candid ones. The ones full of emotion. Of life. Of love.

My Job? Making It Easy.

You don’t have to do it alone—I’m here to make the whole process easy and fun. I come with patience, experience, and plenty of tricks up my sleeve to get those smiles—even from the wildest toddler.

Here are my best stress-free tips to help you plan a session you’ll love:

Tip 1: Have Your Photographer Come to You

Yes, really! I travel to my clients all the time. If your home isn’t the perfect setting, don’t stress. Let’s meet at your neighborhood park, your backyard, or even the entrance to your neighborhood.

True story: some of the most beautiful photos I’ve taken were at a neighborhood park with a giant swingset in the background—you’d never know from the photos! Check out this session from a local park to see what I mean.

Take a look at the photos below from a beautiful session with a sweet mama who was on hospital bed rest. We made the most of a small courtyard surrounded by walls—and still captured some truly special shots. What made it even more memorable was getting to photograph her baby boy's very first visit with Santa!

I do this all the time for weddings, too. Not every portrait was taken in a dreamy location, but with the right angles and light, it feels dreamy. Let’s make it easy—no long car rides with cranky kids (been there), no complicated schedules (been there too!).

Tip 2: Choose a Familiar Location

Kids feel most comfortable in places they know. That might be your home, grandma’s backyard, or a favorite local park. Familiarity = comfort = happy kiddos.

Tip 3: Pick Their Best Time of Day

If your kids are morning people, book a morning session. If they come alive after lunch, go for the afternoon. That said, beach sessions in the afternoon can be tricky—harsh light is not our friend—but for most locations, I can work with the light to make it beautiful.

Tip 6: Dress for Success (and Comfort!)

Forget buying a whole new wardrobe. I send all my clients a What to Wear guide and also have one on my blog with tips that help you look great and feel comfortable. You’d be surprised what’s already in your closet that photographs beautifully.

Some quick tips:

• Stick to neutrals or soft tones
• Avoid busy patterns or logos
• Coordinate, but don’t match exactly
• Add layers or textures (like cardigans or flowy dresses)

And most importantly: choose clothes that you feel good in.

Mama to Mama...

I’m just a regular mom who loves books, coffee (it’s my morning lifeline), and sneaking in a piece of chocolate when my kids aren’t looking. I want you to know—you don’t have to do everything perfectly to have beautiful family photos.

You just need to show up. Be yourselves. Let me do the rest.

I’m here to capture the beauty in your real life—the giggles, the chaos, the cuddles—and turn it into lasting memories.

Let’s make it fun. Let’s make it easy. And let’s make it you.

Want to see what other families are saying?

Ready to capture your family just as they are—beautiful, real, and full of love?

📸 I offer family, maternity, couples, and even Santa sessions in Jacksonville, St. Augustine, and surrounding areas.

Let’s make some magic together!