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5 Quick and Easy Ways to Capture Family Memories in Everyday Moments
Ah, family life — a beautiful mix of chaos, love, and the occasional missing sock. Amidst the whirlwind of daily life, it’s easy to forget just how magical the little moments are. As an Edmonton family photographer (hello, that’s me!), I believe those everyday moments deserve to be cherished, not just as memories but as snapshots to revisit years down the road. Let’s dive into five simple ways to capture those fleeting moments without breaking a sweat or asking anyone to say cheese.
- Keep Your Camera Handy (Even If It’s Your Phone)
No need to haul out the DSLR every time your toddler does something adorable (which is, let’s face it, every 15 minutes). Whether you’re using your phone, a point-and-shoot, or that fancy camera you bought with great intentions, the key is accessibility.
- Why it matters: Everyday moments don’t wait for you to dig through a closet or charge a dead battery. Keeping your camera within arm’s reach ensures you’re ready to snap that giggle-filled pancake breakfast or the impromptu dance party in the living room.
- Pro tip: For phone photography, clean your lens regularly. You’d be amazed how much better your shots will look once you wipe away the smudges (yes, that’s peanut butter on there).
- Relatable anecdote: Last week, I caught my teenager quietly reading with our cat on the couch. It wasn’t a “photo shoot” moment, but the rawness of it made for a memory I’ll treasure forever. I don’t know how long we will have those cats, and years down the road will I remember that my daughter and this cat had a special bond stronger than with any others in the house? And yes, I used my phone.
- Additional idea: If you’re out and about in Edmonton, keep an eye out for fun backdrops. Think vibrant murals in Whyte Avenue or the quiet charm of local parks like Kinsmen or Mill Creek Ravine. Your everyday errands could turn into a mini photo adventure.
- Embrace the Mess
Life isn’t perfect, and your photos shouldn’t be either. Spilled cereal, mismatched socks, and marker-stained hands are part of the story. Unposed family photography in Alberta thrives on authenticity, and it’s those imperfect moments that often tell the best stories.
- Quick takeaways:
- Let go of the urge to tidy up before snapping a photo.
- Focus on the connections between family members rather than the clutter in the background.
- Remember, a messy kitchen with flour everywhere means someone baked cookies, and that’s a memory worth capturing.
- Edmonton spin: Think of it this way — the snowbanks may look less like a winter wonderland and more like a parking lot slush fest, but those candid moments of kids playing outside in the cold capture the true essence of Alberta winters.
- Expand the idea: The same goes for outdoor adventures. A day at Elk Island National Park with the kids could mean muddy boots, tangled hair, and laughter that’ll echo in your memory. Embrace it all.
- Get Down to Their Level
Whether you’re photographing a toddler’s tea party or a teen’s intense gaming session, perspective makes a difference. Standing over your kids and snapping a quick photo works in a pinch, but getting down to their eye level brings a whole new vibe.
- Why it works:
- Eye-level shots feel more intimate and personal.
- You capture the world as they see it, which makes for compelling storytelling.
- Pro tip: Lay on the floor with your camera or phone and shoot from their perspective. Bonus points if you’re willing to endure a little discomfort (hello, Lego bricks!).
- Relatable anecdote: I once crawled under the dining table to capture my kids having a “secret” cookie-eating session. Sure, I bumped my head, but the resulting photo? Totally worth it.
- More perspective: Try shooting from different heights to get creative. How about a bird’s-eye view of your kids sprawled out with crayons and colouring books or a low-angle shot of them jumping on the trampoline? Mix it up!
- Use Natural Light (No Fancy Setup Required)
Let’s talk lighting. You don’t need a professional studio or expensive gear to make your photos shine. Natural light is your best friend, and Edmonton has some beautiful light — even in winter.
- Tips for natural light magic:
- Watch for your family standing or sitting near a window for soft, even lighting.
- Avoid using flash indoors; it tends to flatten your images and create harsh shadows.
- Embrace golden hour (just after sunrise or before sunset) for that dreamy glow. Bonus: It’s a perfect time for a spontaneous outdoor shoot at spots like Hawrelak Park or the River Valley.
- Pro tip: Overcast days in Alberta are surprisingly great for photos. The diffused light works wonders for unposed family photography.
- Expand the idea: Don’t forget about shadows and reflections! Try capturing your family’s reflection in puddles after a summer rain or the way the late-afternoon light creates playful shadows on the wall.
- Capture the In-Between Moments
Life’s magic often happens in the moments between milestones. It’s not just about birthdays or holidays; it’s about the tiny, everyday rituals that make your family unique.
- Examples to inspire you:
- Morning routines: messy bedhead, cereal slurping, and all. A friend with University aged kids recently told me that she doesn’t remember her kids eating breakfast before school. She says she knows she made it, she knows they ate, but she can’t remember them sitting having breakfast amongst the school rush… We think we will remember, but do we always?
- Commuting chaos: a snapshot of everyone crammed into the car (bonus points if the family dog tags along).
- Lazy Sunday afternoons: books, blankets, and maybe a kid napping in the weirdest position imaginable.
- Edmonton connection: Heading to the Edmonton Farmers’ Market or taking a stroll through Old Strathcona? Those outings offer endless photo opportunities that reflect your family’s personality.
- Relatable anecdote: One of my favourite family photo sessions in Edmonton was a completely unplanned afternoon at home. The family took the dogs for a walk by the river valley, had ice cream at home, and played on the slip ‘n slide in the backyard. The resulting images were pure joy and such a fabulous marker of where there life is right now. It reminded me why I’m so passionate about being an Edmonton family photographer.
- Extra ideas: Don’t overlook moments of quiet connection — a parent reading to a child before bed, siblings sharing a blanket during movie night, or a family game night where the competition gets hilariously intense. These are the moments that tell your family’s story.
Why These Everyday Photos Matter
Sure, the big events in life are important, but it’s the quiet, unscripted moments that tug at our heartstrings. When your kids are grown and off on their own adventures, you’ll look back and cherish the “everyday” photos even more. The giggles over spilt milk, the fort-building marathons, and yes, even the tantrums over who gets the last piece of cake.
As a professional family photographer in Edmonton, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful these memories can be. My goal is to help families preserve these moments so they don’t fade away with time. (Because let’s face it, our brains can only hold so much.)
Your photos don’t have to be technically perfect to be meaningful. What matters most is capturing the emotion, connection, and quirks that make your family unique.
Ready to Capture Your Family’s Story?
Feeling inspired but overwhelmed? That’s where I come in. Whether you want help documenting your family’s everyday life or need a professional touch for a special occasion, I’m here to help. As an Edmonton family photographer who specializes in unposed, documentary-style photography, I’ll make sure your family’s true essence shines through.
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Paula Gerein Photography
Documentary photography for families and businesses of Edmonton and Central Alberta, Canada. Available for travel.
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