Hi there! I’m so glad you’re here. As a documentary-style family photographer based in Columbus, OH, who’s passionate about capturing life’s most meaningful moments, I know how important it is for your family photos to feel true to who you are. I love bringing that same care and intentionality into my family photography sessions. 

My goal is to create photos that not only look beautiful but also feel real – photos that tell your story and reflect the love and connection you share with your family.

If you’ve ever felt like family photos can sometimes feel stiff or overly posed, don’t worry – you’re not alone! Today, I’m sharing my tips and approach on how to create documentary-style family photos that feel like you. Let’s dive in together!

Documentary-style Family Photos

• Why Authenticity Matters in Family Photography
  
  
• Tips for Creating Family Photos That Feel Like You
  
  
• How I Approach Family Photography

Why Authenticity Matters in Family Photography

When I think about documentary-style family photos, I think about all the little moments that make up your everyday life – the way your kids laugh at each other’s jokes or how your family comes together for a group hug. These moments are what make your family unique, and that’s what I aim to capture in every session.

Authenticity in family photography matters because it allows us to preserve these genuine connections. When photos are overly posed or forced, they can lose the magic that makes them special. That’s where a documentary-style approach comes in. By focusing on natural interactions, we can create images that feel real…

For example, instead of asking everyone to sit perfectly still and smile at the camera, I might encourage you to play with your kids or snuggle together on the couch. These kinds of moments are not only easier on everyone (especially little ones!) but also result in photos that are filled with real emotion.

Authentic family photos are also timeless. When you look back at your pictures years from now, you’ll be reminded of who you actually were as a family in that season of life and not a polished or posed version of yourselves!

Tips for Creating Family Photos That Feel Like You

Creating documentary-style family photos that feel authentic doesn’t have to be complicated! 

Here are some of my favorite tips to help you prepare for your session:

Choose Outfits That Reflect Your Style

Your outfits play a big role in how your photos look and feel, so it’s important to choose clothing that makes you feel comfortable and confident. I always recommend wearing something that reflects your personal style rather than trying to match a certain trend. 

Neutral or soft colors photograph beautifully, but the most important thing is that you feel like you.

Pick a Location That Feels Special

The location of your session can add so much meaning to your photos. Maybe it’s your favorite park where your family loves to spend time, your cozy home where so many memories are made, or a beautiful outdoor spot that you all love. 

Whether it’s somewhere sentimental or simply a place you love, choosing the right location can make your photos feel even more personal.

Relax and Be Present

I know being in front of the camera can sometimes feel a little intimidating, but the best thing you can do during your session is to relax and enjoy the moment. I always encourage my families to focus on each other instead of the camera. Laugh, play, and just be yourselves. 

I’ll be there to guide you and capture the magic as it happens naturally!

Trust Your Photographer

When you book your documentary-style family photos with a photographer like me, you’re working with someone who has experience creating artful and meaningful photos. Trusting your photographer to guide the session allows you to let go of any stress and focus on enjoying time with your family. 

My goal is always to make the process fun and easy for you, so you can leave the session feeling confident that your photos will reflect your true selves!

How I Approach Family Photography

Every family has their own story, and I see it as my job to capture yours in a way that feels authentic and true to who you are. When you book your documentary-style family photos with me, you can expect a calm and friendly atmosphere where you’ll feel comfortable being yourselves.

I like to start by getting to know your family and what makes you special. Do your kids have a favorite game they love to play? Is there a certain way your partner always makes you laugh? I use this time to learn about what matters most to you so I can capture those moments during your session.

During the shoot, I aim to make things as relaxed and fun as possible. I’ll guide you when needed, but I also step back and let things unfold naturally. I’m always looking for those real, unscripted moments that show the love you have for each other.

I’m passionate about creating images that are both artistic and heartfelt. My experience in documentary-style family photography has taught me the importance of storytelling and capturing emotion. 

My goal is for you to walk away with photos that feel as real and beautiful as the moments they represent!

Book Your Family Photoshoot in Columbus, OH, or Beyond

Now you know how to create documentary-style family photos that feel like you. 

If you’re ready to create family photos that feel authentic and true to who you are, I’d be honored to work with you. Reach out today to learn more about booking a session with me. 

I can’t wait to hear from you and start planning a session that reflects the beautiful, unique story of your family!