Every year I witness the “dreadful family session slow walk up”.

Let’s be honest, nobody likes to have their picture taken, but add your whole family into the equation and there is sure to be chaos and anxiety.

I bet money that there were arguments from the time that each family member sauntered out of bed, to the panicked run around with “what the hell is everyone wearing” to the aggressive, almost late, drive-over with someone yelling from the back that they have to pee, or that they are hungry.

I feel for you. And I wholeheartedly want it to be different for you.

It’s ok if your kids aren’t “perfect”

First of all, perfect is kind of boring. I want to give the kids space. If there is something life-threatening that we need to avoid, let’s avoid that, but if your kiddos are just being kids, let’s capture what we can from the session. We don’t need fake smiles or forced happiness. I believe that even if we don’t get the “perfect photo” we will capture the spirit and personality of your child right now. Some of the closed-eye, giggle photos are my absolute favorite because they instantly make you smile even on the worst days.

My secret goal is to get dads to let go

The same goes for dads. I know 1,000% that dad does not want to be here. I don’t want to force them to fake-ly smile at the camera while they yell at the kids under their breath. I want this to be a moment where you can take a break from the hustle of life and just have fun with the kids and family. Do funny fart jokes bring out laughter for everyone? Then tell them! Toss your kids in the air to get that belly laugh, let’s do it! We want hugs and kisses and silliness here. Let’s leave the stress at the door.

Let me tell you, for all the years I have done this, dads are usually the ones who come around the most by the end of the session. I make it efficient yet fun for everyone so you can get back to your busy lives and they are always pleasantly surprised.

Moms, I do this for you

Moms. I know all you want is that Christmas card photo, but let’s give you a moment too. Let’s celebrate the year you all have had, the accomplishments, no matter how small they are, the triumphs of overcoming so much, and the fact that you made the appointment for photos before Thanksgiving came around on the calendar this year. #winning So many of my small business clients are moms and I know how hard juggling it all can be. You deserve a moment to breathe it all in and enjoy yourself and your family. Because they are why we do all of this, isn’t it?

Even when there is chaos, and teens are angsty, trust us to get the images. It’s what I am good at. There are moments in between that really capture who your loved ones are, and I am looking forward to doing that for you this year.

It’s easy to book an in-studio family session

This year’s sessions are in-studio. We have a private, beautiful studio in downtown Lemont, which will make it easy for you to get the images you want for your holiday cards, classic enough to put up in your homes, and as the perfect gifts for your loved ones(holiday shopping done!).

Bonus, if you purchase your prints, digital images, and gifts at your session, you will receive 50% off your purchase! You have the option to purchase after your session at full price. Check out our full pricing guide here.

Let’s get even dad to say “that was easy” so we can meet you all again, same timeframe, same place, next year!