My Approach to Documentary Family Photography
You may have heard of Documentary Family Photography. It’s become a popular genre of family photography in the past 10 years. People who are drawn to this style were likely turned off from the stiff, awkward family portraits from their own childhood. and instead drawn to capturing authentic moments from their family’s life. It’s a style that lets go of perfection and embraces the messy, beautiful moments in everyday life. I absolutely LOVE photographing documentary sessions. They allow me to focus on personalities over perfection, and by extending the time spent with a family from an hour to several hours, I’m able to capture more artistic, story-led images, rather than just portraits.
Documentary Family Photography isn’t for everyone, though, and I totally get that! While some people are completely comfortable having their less-than-perfect life photographed, a lot of people want photos that are more polished. That’s why I created Best. Day. Ever. Sessions. They’re a happy medium between documentary family sessions and lifestyle sessions. I still use a documentary approach, in that I’m not directing posed portraits, but I help you plan a session that will yield compelling images that are still worthy of framing on the wall. The session should also be planned around your family’s favorite activities and places you love to go.
An example itinerary: I come to your home in the morning to capture snuggles in bed or a pancake breakfast, then we head out to your favorite weekend activities— maybe it’s strolling your neighborhood farmer’s market, a trip to the beach, or going to the zoo. Top it off with ice cream from your local parlor and some quiet time at home.
Of course, each day comes with its ups and downs, and I’m there to capture those moments too. Your toddler having a meltdown may be stressful at the time, but you’ll love looking back at those sweet tears and their puffy little face when they’re older.
Here are some photos from one of my all-time favorite Best. Day. Ever. Sessions. We started at home, hiked the TN Valley Trail in Marin, had a rest at home, and splashed at Crissy Beach.
