At-Home Lifestyle Sessions for Your Family

The longer that I am a mom, I realize the little things really are the big things. Sure, that’s what everyone says (I can see you rolling your eyes a little bit!), but those everyday moments are beautiful. They’re authentic. From gardening and bath time to cooking, playing outside, and reading, these are the moments that define your family story. This is why I’m passionate about in-home, lifestyle sessions. In these sessions, dance parties and spontaneous laughter (and even chickens!) are welcomed.

Why do a lifestyle session? An in-home or at-home lifestyle session focuses on the organic and genuine moments. What’s so cool about these shoots is it also allows your family members to be themselves, to do the things you normally do (such as baking, cooking, reading books, and riding bikes), and children often respond well to the comfortable feel. These shoots are not about having a picture-perfect, Pinterest home, but about celebrating what makes your family unique. A family lifestyle session can be done indoors or outdoors, whatever will best showcase your style and your family. I am able to harness whatever natural light is available to get the best, dreamy shots of your sweet crew.

When can I book a lifestyle session like this? I book these sessions year-round. You can choose indoor or outdoor (or a combination of the two) at your home. In the familiar setting of your garden, home, or backyard, formality gets removed, and the focus shifts from perfection to authenticity. I find that I capture more goofy laughs and genuine smiles when children can be in their own space, and I can include animals or pets as well.

Why are lifestyle, at-home sessions so convenient? One of the most notable advantages of in-home lifestyle sessions is the convenience they offer. If you’re a parent, you certainly know what it’s like to pack children up in nice clothes, and transport them to a photo location. While some respond well to that style of photos, some children experience anxiety and get nervous about traditional photos. By bringing me (the photographer) to your home, you’re able to relax, spend quality time with your family, and avoid the hassles of rushing out the door. Weather uncertainties are also a little less stressful with an at-home session. The unpredictability of weather elements like snow, wind, or hail is eliminated if you have an indoor session (crucial in a state like Oregon!), ensuring that the focus remains on capturing genuine moments without worrying about external factors. As kids grow at an alarming pace, these in-home lifestyle photography sessions become a timeless keepsake, allowing you to reminisce about the details that may fade with time but are forever preserved in the images of your everyday life!

All About Your Family Photos

Each year, I offer family mini and traditional sessions that capture the heart of the family. I specialize in motherhood and family sessions, and really believe that authentic photos make the most treasured memories. So, what is a family or motherhood session all about? Why should you book one of these shoots? I want to share a little about the process and why these sessions tell the story of your family so beautifully (yes, even if you don’t love having your photos done):

The planning process: Obviously, the place to start is at the beginning! Booking with us is straightforward and seamless. Simply click our contact on the website and you can select the type of session you are interested in. From there, I work with you to select the right date and time that works best for your family. I give you information on locations so we can determine where to plan and design your session. I personally scout my locations so that I can ensure the light and terrain are ideal for you and your loved ones. I offer reliable communication to all of my clients, and make myself as available as possible so you feel confident and excited. I can also suggest resources to you as you select outfits for your crew!

What to expect when you arrive: Once all the details are confirmed and the day has arrived, it’s time for the fun. Upon arrival, I will meet your family (if I don’t already know you), and get to know your little ones if they are present. I am a mom myself, and understand how crucial it is for young family members to feel included, safe, and heard during a family or motherhood photoshoot. I will give you a rundown of the timeline of our time together, and then help you get into your first set of poses! Even the most reluctant family member usually ends up relaxing and even enjoying their time in front of the lens. I focus on authentic emotions, poses, and candids, so that your photos reflect the real you.

What happens after the shoot: After your session, I will advise you on the session turnaround time (typically, I range from 2-3 weeks to return your gallery to you), and what the next steps will be. You will receive an emailed gallery to you at the appointed time, and that will also include resources for you to order prints and products from reputable vendors that are true-to-color. I can also answer questions as you choose items for your home or albums.

What about family dynamics? I understand every family has a unique story and dynamics in their relationships. I have worked with mothers and families of all ages and backgrounds, and believe everyone deserves equitable photography experience. If your family or children have a special circumstance that I need to know (shared custody, grandparents, single parents, etc.), letting me know helps me tailor your experience and meet your needs. We work a diverse clientele from all walks of life, and enjoy making every session customizable.

I feel privileged each and every day to be a family and motherhood photographer, and really believe in capturing all the angles and facets of parenting and children! It’s a joy to be a mom, and I find that joy infuses my work and provides me with the best inspiration. I’d love to work with you, and can’t wait to meet you!

A Letter to the Mamas

A letter to you, mama

I see you. I see you up late at night after the dishes and laundry are done, wondering if now is the right time to do motherhood or family photos, and closing your Instagram and Facebook, vowing that someday, you will do portraits. You grace in the mirror and remember that you wanted to lose ten pounds, and where did all those grey hairs come from? You sigh and promise that eventually, the time will be right.

I want to express something that’s been on my mind, something that as a photographer, I believe is of great importance. Now is the time, mom. The photos, the beautiful snapshots of your life, your memories, and your family? It’s time to get in the photos, just the way you are. First, please know that you are truly beautiful the way you are, and your presence in the life of your family or your children is a special gift. You are warm, loving, and your laughter is what makes your family so special. It’s not about perfection or importance, but about giving your children a tangible memory that includes you.

For many of us moms, we are not the same size we were when we got married or even early on in our motherhood. Maybe your weight has fluctuated up or down, and either one can create insecurities about the way we look. Please hear me when I say that those perceived flaws do not matter to the people who love you. The “imperfections” make you uniquely you, and they are part of what makes you unique. Embrace the smile likes, a few grey hairs, and yes, even a few pounds, because they are a testament to a life well-lived. They represent Friday night pizza nights or the inside jokes that make you belly laugh. Those are the things your children will remember.

Another reason that so many clients put off photos is because their children are little. Since I’m still in the season of little ones, I understand how hard it can be to wrangle infants and toddlers (and get them into coordinated outfits!), but time has a way of slipping through our fingers. Our kids are growing faster than we can believe. Yes, family photos can be a but of work for the primary parent (we see the mental load!), but they also can be a beautiful tradition and memory that can bring your family closer together. Children do well with routines, and using the same photographer or doing family photos each year can help familiarize them with the idea!

Mama, I encourage you to step in front of the camera with confidence and love, because it's your presence that completes your family photos. Remember, these pictures are a legacy for your children and their children, a testament to the love and happiness you've shared. I want you to see yourself as the beautiful, strong, wild, amazing person I see, and it’s why I love what I do! Your presence in those pictures will be a gift that keeps on giving, a timeless reminder of your love and importance. I promise.

Love,

Olivia