What to Expect During Your Family Documentary Photo Session


So, you’ve booked a documentary family photo session — congratulations! This style of photography is all about capturing real, everyday moments, and it’s a beautiful way to freeze time in a way that feels true to your family’s story. Here’s a quick guide on what to expect and how to get the most out of our time together.


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1. Arriving at Your Session: No Prep Required!


Unlike traditional photo sessions, you don’t need to clean, coordinate outfits, or even worry about having everything in place. There’s nothing you need to “prepare” — just go about your day as you normally would! Whether we're capturing a pancake breakfast, a trip to the park, or bedtime stories, the most important thing is that everyone feels relaxed and at ease.


2. Expect a Laid-Back Approach


During the session, I’ll be an observer, blending into the background as often as possible to capture your family’s natural rhythm and connection. Don’t feel pressured to look at the camera or act a certain way; my goal is to catch those genuine smiles, laughter, and even the small moments that happen when no one is “posing.”


I interact with you and your kids occasionally to help everyone feel comfortable. All you need to do is go about your day as usual!


3. Capturing the Real and the Raw


Family documentary photography is about real, raw moments. That means capturing both the sweet and the silly, the calm and the chaos. If a tantrum happens or someone gets a little messy, that’s okay! These are honest reflections of family life and are often the moments we’ll look back on most fondly. Embrace the realness — it’s part of what makes your family unique.


4. Embrace Your Family's Pace and Activities


Every family has its own pace, favorite routines, and little quirks. I love to capture these unique rhythms! If your session takes place at home, I’ll follow along as you go through daily rituals: maybe making breakfast, playing games, or reading together. Or, if we’re out at a park or other favorite spot, we’ll capture your family having fun just as you always do. The key is to do whatever feels normal and natural — I’ll take care of capturing the magic.


5. Forget About “Perfect” Behavior


Kids can be unpredictable — and that’s a good thing! Let them be themselves, whether that means being energetic, silly, or even a little moody. You don’t have to worry about “perfect” behavior for the photos; their unique personalities are what make each shot special. And if there are any interruptions or unexpected moments, just let them happen naturally — they’re all part of the story.

6. Expect a Range of Moments to Be Captured


In documentary family sessions, we’ll capture a mix of moments, from big, joyful ones to the quieter, in-between details. Some of my favorite shots come from small interactions — a shared glance, a little hand reaching up, or even the family dog running into the frame. Each of these moments contributes to a more complete, authentic picture of your family.


7. Relax and Trust the Process


As your photographer, I’m here to bring out the natural beauty and character of your family, just as you are. The beauty of documentary family photography is in the unscripted, so just enjoy the time with your loved ones and let things unfold naturally. I’ll take care of finding and capturing the moments that best tell your story.


8. After the Session: Reviewing Your Photos


After the session, I’ll go through all the photos to select the ones that capture the essence of your family’s day. You’ll see a variety of moments, from laughter and play to some tender, quieter shots. The finished collection will feel like a “day in the life” photo album, filled with real, precious moments that you’ll love looking back on for years to come.


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Documentary family photography is about capturing life as it is right now, with all its quirks, laughter, and beautiful chaos. During our time together, your only “job” is to be yourselves — just relax, enjoy the moments, and let me take care of preserving them for you. Can’t wait to capture your family’s story!