documentary family photography for those
who understand the value of REAl
A reflection that is honest, maybe a bit messy,
but guaranteed to be filled with all that you are.
What do you mean by documentary?
Traditional family portraits are directed by the photographer. “Sit here, turn your head this way, place your hand on her shoulder…” Sound familiar?
None of that happens when I photograph your family. Posing, looking at the camera, moving you into the light, or picking up the pile of clothes on the floor will not happen. Period. My job is to observe, be insanely patient, and find the subtle familiar between you and your family.
How is it different than other family photography?
You will be rewarded with moments that tell your story; the story of how you felt that day, that hour, that minute. These stories will live on through your children growing old and having their own kids one day. The pages of the album will show the smallest of details that we just cannot recall as we fill up with more memories.
I would encourage families to just be themselves, and make sure to laugh through the moments of chaos that is what parenthood looks like.
Renee, documentary family client
frequently asked questions
I don’t know what is worth documenting in our family.
You. It is your family, your partnership, the time together that is truly worth documenting. I understand your fears! You have this voice that says, “We are boring, our house is messy, what could we possibly do for all that time?” Let those fears go and dive into the beauty of trust. Remember you are hiring a professional who is there to latch onto those unexpected moments.
I am not sure I can do an unposed session. Can we get a few posed shots?
Have you had a traditional portrait session? How did that make you feel? I know I feel like I’m performing for the photographer and not enjoying my family or myself. If you FEEL good in the moment, you will shine! I don’t offer posed photos with the exception of weddings.
My kids are older, does this still work?
Absolutely! Tweens, teens and young adults are developing their own individual narrative. Imagine who they are now and where they will be in the years to come. They aren’t just learning how to walk, or running around like little animals, but they are so unique in their growth and this is a chance to truly celebrate them in this season of their lives.
Will candid images look good on our walls?
Personally, I prefer strong, storytelling-documentary images displayed throughout my home. Along our staircase, on our bookshelves, in our bedroom we have memories of babies, toddlers, and almost teenagers recalling sweet moments that I never want to forget. One of my favorites are my kids when they were 6 and 2 and my daughter was blowing bubbles while my son laughs and looks at her with such adoration. They are different people now, but I can recall that moment with perfect clarity and joy. Another is from a family trip to Bali (wow, what an experience!) where we were sweaty, tired and ready to just call it a day, but it’s connected, we were together in the thick of being a family and I adore it. It is such a gift to have these moments and I want to give you this same gift through our session together.
