Charleston Area Family Photographer’s advice… Don’t “Say Cheese!”

10 Reasons Why a Documentary Photo Session is Just What Your Family Needs

Documentary family photography captures the naturally occurring moments of family life. It’s a photo journalistic approach to family photography. The resulting images are a pure representation of the moment because there is no prompting or staging. 

As a photographer, I love the honesty and integrity of the images created during a documentary session. And as a mother, I believe this style of photography is just as valuable for families as the more common lifestyle family photography which involves guiding and direction to obtain an outcome. I enjoy providing both types of sessions and one style isn’t better than the other, it’s just a matter of preference for your family at the time you are having your photos taken.

If his has piqued your interest read on and learn why a documentary session may be just what your family needs.

“This is a gift I didn’t know I needed” -B. Wooley Daniel Island, SC

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Life is Beautiful

Unscripted life is beautiful because it is genuine. Maybe you think that your life is too boring for a documentary session but that’s just not true. The mundane is certainly not boring from my perspective. It is real- and when I capture real moments I create compelling and memorable photographs. 

During the session, I capture the heart of a family by photographing life in action. Without interruption or direction, I witness and photograph tender and quiet moments, playful and funny exchanges, simple, yet beautiful acts, and yes, some naughty behavior. I will capture a wide range of emotions, individual traits, and the connections that are experienced among family members.

The gallery of images you receive from your session will not only show you just how beautiful your life is, but you will actually feel it through the images. 

See Your Day Through a Different Lens

I observe and photograph with a trained eye because the elements that make for a strong photo will always apply. I look for subtleties and details and anticipate the right moments to photograph. 

I will approach scenes from angles you don't normally get to see and I will make images of moments that often go unnoticed. I will get close to capture personalities and connections and move back to get the entire scene . I photograph moments that will make you laugh, smile or even cry. 

All You Need is Love and Some Light

The sessions can be done just about anywhere or anytime. This includes your home, on a family outing, at a party, or even on a vacation. I will work with the available light and position myself to use light in an artistic manner. 

A session will include photographing activities and routines or even a special tradition. You decide what you want to document: preparing and eating a meal, playing inside and/or outside, bedtime, bath-time, doing school work, a trip to your favorite park or town, quiet downtime, etc. Maybe you have relatives visiting, or you want to plan a special beach day, or your child has reached a milestone- the reasons to schedule a documentary session are endless. The session can include multiple locations too (i.e., the park, a child’s activity and the comfort of home).

And if you need a few more reasons…

I will love your family while I am with you.  For the few hours that we are together, I become an extension of your family. You are granting me access to your day and that is something I value tremendously. I have a calm and caring demeanor and I will quickly gain the trust of your children. After ½ hour or so you won’t notice me because everyone is so comfortable with my presence as you go about experiencing your day.

Your home doesn't need to look like you are having an open house. Your environment adds depth and meaning to the photos (toys, books, items on the counters, etc). I will compose the photos so that your home is photographed in the most flattering manner but I will not move anything around. I want the images to evoke feelings of nostalgia when you view them years later and the little details in the images will bring the photos to life.

Your kids don't need to sit still and behave for me. Action and movement is what I want to capture. I will not give your kids direction or tell them to sit or act a certain way.  

Shopping for the session is not required. You don't have to spend your time or money shopping for coordinating outfits and accessories, in fact I discourage this.

Your entire family will be photographed. This is especially meaningful for the family member always taking the photos but rarely in them.

You will receive a visually diverse gallery. I take a variety of images so that your gallery is interesting. This includes using multiple lenses as well as being mindful to capture individual portraits, the entire family together, various other combinations as well as action shots and quiet moments. 

You will receive a collection of images that captures your life exactly as it is at this moment. Each image will be thoughtfully edited and can be appreciated on its own. When the images are viewed as a series a beautiful story is created for you to enjoy over and over again. The collection of images can make for a beautiful photo book too.

If you want to learn more, or book a session please click below.