Looking for a Jacksonville Family Photographer Who's Great with Kids?

Most families tell me right away that their kids won’t sit still for photos and that is totally ok with me! I prefer they don’t stand still. I am a Jacksonville family photographer and I’ve been photographing families since 2012. Through the years, I’ve learned that when kids are allowed to play and be themselves, that’s when the best photos are created.

This post is here to answer a few of the most common questions I get from parents looking for a relaxed, stress-free photo experience. Especially those with young kids.

What if my child won't sit still?

Honestly, I don't expect them to. Young children are naturally curious and active. Rather than asking toddlers to pose for long periods of time, I build movement into the session. Walking together, snuggling, exploring the beach, and playing simple games often create the most natural images. I will sneak in those static formal poses in between the movement. You can learn more about this in the following blog post.

What if my baby cries?

Babies cry and toddlers have meltdowns. One of the benefits of working with a photographer who regularly photographs young children is knowing when to take a break, shift gears, or simply give a child a moment to reset.

Do my children need to smile at the camera?

Not at all. While I always try to capture a few traditional portraits, some of the most meaningful images happen when children are focused on their parents, siblings, or the world around them. I spend far less time saying "Say cheese" and far more time interacting with children. The goal is to create genuine reactions rather than forced expressions.

What are you looking for when you’re photographing families?

I’m looking for connection points and authentic facial expressions. I notice movement, light, and those little moments that happen in between poses. The way your child looks up at you, how you all laugh together, or when your kid wrinkles their nose during a big hug. When you look at your images, I want you to feel something.  Here is a recent blog post about why real moments with children matter more than poses.

What should parents do during the session?

The best thing you can do is relax. Children pick up on stress very quickly. When parents focus on enjoying time together instead of worrying about perfect behavior, kids tend to follow their lead.

What do families love most about working with you?

Most people say that I put them at ease and make them feel comfortable right away. Most say their session was way more fun and relaxed than they expected. I think that’s because I create a no-pressure environment. I have games and prompts ready to help everyone loosen up, but I’ll also step back when I see you’re in your groove. When you need direction again, I’ll jump right in. My goal is for the whole experience to feel easy and natural. I often work with clients year after year and those repeat clients feel like old friends to me.

What makes you different from other photographers in jacksonville?

I think it’s the mix of my personality and my process. I give a lot of prep information ahead of time so families feel ready, I bring a calm energy to every session, and I’m amazing with energetic kids. I don’t expect kids to sit still. Actually, I’d rather they don’t. Playing, exploring, and laughing together is how we get genuine photos. I also create a very personal experience. I do not overbook my calendar because my goal is to give every session the attention it deserves.

How would you describe your editing and color style?

Warm, colorful and dramatic. I am a big fan of color and feel it makes everything feel more happy and cheerful. I keep my skin tones true, but bring out colors int he sky, clouds, clothing and overall scene.

Is now the right time for family photos?

I hear this one all the time. Many parents think they should wait until their children are older, easier, or more cooperative. The truth is that every stage comes with its own challenges and its own beauty. The families who treasure their photos most are usually the ones who chose to document life exactly as it was. Learn more about the right time to schedule a family session here.

Will We Still Get a Few Traditional Family Photos?

Don't worry—I will absolutely sneak in a few traditional "everyone looking at the camera" photos. We all need at least one for Grandma. But after years of photographing families, I can tell you that those usually aren't the images parents end up loving most. The favorites are almost always the candid moments: the belly laughs, the cuddles, the way your child reaches for you when they're feeling shy, and all of the little interactions that tell the story of your family right now.

Are you looking for a photographer in the Jacksonville area?

Many parents reach out because they are worried their children won't cooperate during family photos. Whether I'm photographing a baby, toddler, or older child, my goal is to create a relaxed experience that feels fun rather than stressful. As a Jacksonville family photographer, I work with children of all ages throughout Jacksonville, Ponte Vedra, Nocatee, and St. Augustine.

Do you like the idea of a photographer who’s calm, playful, and great with kids who don’t like sitting still, I’d love to plan something together. Contact me for more info or to book a session.