One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned about photographing children didn’t come from a photography class or a workshop. It came from my son, Eli.
Eli is five years old, and being his mom has taught me more about patience, gentleness, and understanding little hearts than I ever expected!
Kids feel everything so deeply. They have their own personalities, their own rhythms, and their own comfort levels. Some days they are all smiles and energy. Other days they need a little extra time, a little reassurance, and a lot of grace.
Motherhood has opened my eyes to that in such a powerful way, and it has shaped the way I photograph families.
When a child arrives at a session, they are stepping into something unfamiliar. There’s a person they don’t know holding a camera, parents asking them to smile, and sometimes they’re being asked to sit still when every instinct in their body says to run, explore, and play.
So I don’t rush them.
I give them space to be themselves. I talk to them. I let them show me their personalities. Sometimes I’ll play little games with them or act a little silly to get a giggle out. Other times I simply step back and let them stay close to mom and dad until they feel comfortable.
And if a child decides they don’t want to pose right away, that is completely okay!
Some of the most beautiful images I have ever captured happened in those exact moments. A little one clinging to mom’s dress. A toddler running through the grass while dad scoops them up. A shy child peeking out from behind their parents with the sweetest little smile once they feel safe.
Those moments are real. They are joyful. They are childhood. And they're also what you will remember the most!
Children are not meant to be perfectly posed little statues. They are meant to laugh, explore, and show the world exactly who God created them to be.
The Bible reminds us just how precious children truly are.
“Children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.”
Psalm 127:3
Every time I photograph a child, I’m reminded that I’m witnessing something sacred. These little lives are gifts from the Lord, and the season of childhood passes far more quickly than we ever imagine.
That is why I approach every session with patience, joy, and a heart that truly loves working with kids.
One of the sweetest things I see happen over time is when families return for another session. Kids remember! The little ones who were shy the first time often run up smiling the next time because I’m no longer a stranger with a camera. I’m someone familiar. Someone they’ve laughed with before. And so, it becomes easier for me to get the shots that I need.
Those relationships make sessions feel more relaxed, joyful, and easy. It becomes less about “taking pictures” and more about capturing a family simply enjoying time together.
And that is when the magic really happens.
If you’re worried your child might be shy, a little wild, serious, or completely on their own agenda, please don’t stress. Those sweet, real little personalities are exactly what make childhood so special to photograph!
The giggles, the cuddles, the running, the quiet moments with mom, the proud look on dad’s face while holding his little one. Those are the memories that matter most and the images you will want up on your walls.
My heart behind every session is simple. I want you to walk away with images that feel full of life, full of love, and full of the joy God placed inside your family.
Because one day the toys will be put away, the little shoes will be outgrown, and these tiny personalities will grow up. Photographs are how we hold onto the sweetness (and little bit of chaos) of it all.
Don't rush them. Simply play and have fun with them... I'll do the rest!
