When it comes to lifestyle family photography, I know that this term might not be something everyone is familiar with, so let me explain. For me, lifestyle photography goes beyond the typical “everyone look at the camera and smile” portrait. Sure, we’ll capture that moment too, but it’s not the main focus of the session. In a lifestyle family shoot, it’s about telling the story of the time you spend together. It’s about capturing the connection between you and your loved ones—the real, authentic moments that often get overlooked. It’s those in-between moments that matter the most: the warm hugs, the silly giggles, and the natural interactions that reflect your family’s unique bond.

As your photographer, I’ll guide you through prompts and activities that bring out those genuine moments. My ultimate goal is for you to leave with not only beautiful photos but also sweet memories of the experience we shared.

There are 3 key factors that come into play with Lifestyle Family Photography:

Why Location Choice Matters for Your Lifestyle Family Photography Session.

Choosing the right location is essential for lifestyle family photography. It’s important to be in a place where kids can explore and play freely! That’s why I love shooting at the beach—children of all ages enjoy playing in the sand and water. I also love creeks and trails, where nature provides the perfect playground. Not only do these spots keep kids engaged and happy, but they also create stunning backdrops for beautiful, authentic photos.

Lifestyle Family Photography is Always Child Led.

This one is a key factor in a successful lifestyle family photography session. I firmly believe in following the child’s lead. After all, you can’t expect a toddler—or any child—to sit still and smile perfectly for an hour. It’s just not realistic! If your little one starts off feeling shy and wants to stay close to you, that’s completely okay—we’ll capture some sweet, snuggly moments first. If they’re full of energy right away, we’ll embrace that by playing and exploring. The key is to meet them where they are and lean into that. And that naturally leads to my final point…

Relax, Have Fun, and Trust the Process for Beautiful Photos!

I know it can be hard for parents to let go and simply let their kids be kids—especially after investing in a family photoshoot. I get it, you want them to “behave” and smile for the camera. But the truth is, the best way to make that happen is by allowing them to be themselves and have fun. When you relax and enjoy yourself, your kids will pick up on that energy and do the same. So think of our session as a chance to slow down, connect, and just enjoy your family. And trust I’ll capture the moments that matter!

Being a lifestyle family photographer is truly a joy! I love running around with you, watching the sweet connection of your family. It fills me in a way that’s hard to put into words—a beautiful reminder of life’s simple joys and the importance of cherishing them with my own family. These little moments? They’re actually the big ones. If this kind of session speaks to you, let’s connect! Send me a message, and let’s start planning something special.