Hint: It Starts with Letting Go of “Perfect”

You know those photos where people look totally relaxed—laughing, tearing up, completely in the moment—and you can actually feel something just looking at them? That’s exactly what you want. Real smiles. Real connection. Real life.

Capturing authentic emotions isn’t about perfect poses or making sure everything is perfect. It’s about creating space for families to just be themselves—whether that’s a couple sharing an intimate moment, a mom holding back tears while looking at her baby, or a toddler mid-giggle sprinting through the grass. And let me tell you: the magic happens when we stop trying so hard and just have fun.

Here’s how I approach capturing those real, emotional moments.

1. Connection First, Camera Second

Before you even think about posing or looking at the camera, I want you to connect with each other. That’s where the real magic starts.

I’ll guide families into a space where you can slow down, play, and just be present. Hug your babies. Look your partner in the eyes. Let your kids climb all over you. I’ll prompt little moments that get you interacting, laughing, or cuddling—and from there, I’m just capturing what unfolds naturally.

You don’t need to perform. Just love on your people. Let them feel that you’re right there with them. Those are the moments that make photos feel alive.

2. Play is the Real Secret

Want to know how I get those joy-filled, candid family photos? We play. Tag, dancing, tickle fights, spinning in circles—I’ll prompt you just enough to get you moving, then step back and let the moments unfold.

Especially with little ones (and even grown-ups), the best expressions happen when you’re doing, not posing. You’re not thinking about the camera—you’re thinking about catching your kid or soaking in that perfect hug. That’s when the magic happens.

3. Let It Get Messy (That’s Real Life!)

Life isn’t perfect, and your session doesn’t have to be either. If your child is shy, that is fine, we will work with it. If your toddler won’t sit still—great! We’ll embrace it. Some of the most powerful, emotional photos I’ve ever taken came from moments that were totally unplanned.

The tears, the cuddles, the chaos—it’s all part of your story. And honestly, sometimes those little messes end up being the most cherished memories.

4. Prompt, Don’t Pose

With every family session I will get a handful of the “stand here and smile at the camera” routine. I get this done in 10 minutes or less and then we go and play. I’ll guide you with fun prompts that help you interact naturally. Things like:

• “Whisper your favorite ice cream flavor in mom’s ear like it’s a secret.”
• “Look at each other and make your silliest face.”
• “Spin them around like you’re both about to take off.”

These little games spark real reactions—belly laughs, sweet glances, spontaneous hugs—that say way more than any forced grin ever could.

5. Look at Each Other, Not Me

This is one of my favorite tips. So many people are used to staring at the camera, but some of the most heartfelt images happen when you’re looking at each other. Look at your partner’s face. Look at your child’s hands. Look into your baby’s eyes and breathe them in.

That connection you feel in those moments? That’s what I’m capturing. The way you smile at your daughter when she doesn’t know you’re watching. The way your toddler fits in your arms. It’s those tiny, quiet things that speak volumes.

6. Shoot the In-Between Moments

I’m always watching—especially in the in-between. When you’re walking back from a spot, adjusting someone’s shirt, walking together, or laughing after a silly outtake—that’s where the gold is.

Sometimes the best photo is the one you didn’t know I was taking. 

7. Keep It Light (and Maybe a Little Silly)

I’m not afraid to be silly if it means getting a real smile from your kid—or you! I’ll dance, sing, play peek-a-boo, whatever it takes. I want you to feel like you’re just spending time together, not like you’re performing for a camera.

Because honestly? Capturing authentic emotions happen when we’re all just having a good time –  that’s when the walls come down and the real emotions come out.

Final Thoughts: Your Real Is Beautiful

At the end of the day, capturing authentic emotions isn’t about being picture-perfect— it’s about connection. It’s about freezing a moment that, when you look back at it, brings you right back to how it felt.

So if you’re booking a session with me, just come as you are. Love on your family. Let the kids be kids. Laugh loud. Hug tight. And I’ll be there, camera in hand, ready to catch the real you—messy, beautiful, and full of heart.