unposed family photos

Stress-Free Family Photography: How to Fit a Session into Your Busy Schedule

by
Adult sisters laugh at a table surrounded by children and spouses
Let's Talk
Adult sisters laugh at a table surrounded by children and spouses

Stress-Free Family Photography: How to Fit a Session into Your Busy Schedule

Summary

Life is busy, but preserving your family’s memories doesn’t have to add stress to your plate. In this blog, we’ll cover:

 

Let’s dive into practical tips to make planning your next family photo session as easy as pie.

Say Hi

The Balancing Act: Managing Work, Life, and Family Photography

 

We all know the struggle: your calendar looks like a Tetris game gone wrong. Between work meetings, hockey practice, and figuring out what’s for dinner, finding time for a family photo session feels like a Herculean task. But here’s the thing: it’s worth it. Capturing these fleeting moments is one of the best investments you can make in your family’s legacy.

 

Start by treating your family photo session like any other special day. Put it on the calendar. Block off a day and time just as you would for a work meeting or a dentist appointment. And remember, rescheduling happens—we’re aiming for progress, not perfection.

 

The beauty of a documentary family photography session is that it’s flexible. There’s no need to schedule hair appointments, find matching outfits, or deep-clean the house. It’s about capturing your family exactly as you are—messy kitchen and all.

A mom lays on the floor pushing away from her face the bare feet of her two children

Finding Meaningful Activities Amid the Chaos

 

Life is busy, but that doesn’t mean your family time has to feel rushed or forced – quite the contrary. The beauty of documentary family photography is that it captures your family as you are, doing what you love. That means your session can include:

 

  • A picnic near Edmonton’s River Valley trails.
  • Making supper together in your kitchen.
  • A backyard game of soccer or tag.
  • Even a lazy Sunday morning with pancakes and PJs.

 

These sessions are not about perfection; they’re about connection. Whether your toddler is running barefoot through the grass or your teenager is sneaking glances at their phone, those real moments are what make your family unique. And hey, when was the last time you planned a day where everyone just got to relax and enjoy each other’s company?

Tips for Scheduling a Family Photo Session (Without Losing Your Mind)

 

Let’s face it: squeezing a photo session into your already packed schedule can feel daunting. Here’s how to make it manageable:

  1. Plan Ahead:
    • Pick a day when your family has some time just to be together. For some, that’s a weekend morning. For others, it’s an afternoon after a slow start to the day.
    • Documentary sessions don’t require the golden hour. You’re not aiming for posed perfection; you’re aiming for real-life magic.
  2. Choose Activities You Already Enjoy and that would be special to have photo memories of:
    • Love Sunday brunch at home? Make pancakes together and let me capture the syrupy smiles.
    • Enjoy the outdoors? Head to your favourite park or trail in Edmonton.
  3. Delegate and Simplify:
    • Prep snacks and simple activities, but don’t overthink it. The magic is in the mundane—yes, even snack time.
    • Communicate with your photographer about what’s most important to capture. Trust us to handle the rest.
  4. Adjust Your Mindset:
    • Documentary family photography doesn’t demand a perfect environment. Embrace the chaos and remember that your family’s quirks are what make your story beautiful.
Father and adult son sit together on dock - from an Edmonton Family Photographer

Preparing for a Documentary Family Session: Forget the Matching Outfits and the Clean House

 

The dreaded question: What do we wear? In documentary family photography, the answer is simple—whatever you’d normally wear! Skip the matching outfits and focus on comfort:

 

  • Wear What Feels Right:
    • Think cozy sweaters, favourite jeans, or even pyjamas if that’s your family’s vibe. The goal is to look like you.
  • Forget the House Prep:
    • Your home doesn’t need to look like a magazine spread. A sink full of dishes or toys scattered on the floor are part of your family’s story. These details show the life you’re living, right here, right now.

 

What to Bring:

  • A relaxed attitude—this session is about fun, not perfection. Believe me when I say that kids often describe their family photo session day as the “Best Day Ever!” simply because it was uninterrupted time together as a family.

Why You Should Prioritise Documenting Your Family’s Story

 

Life doesn’t slow down, and neither do your kids. Taking the time for a family photo session isn’t just about getting beautiful pictures; it’s about preserving your story. When you book with an Edmonton family photographer specialising in documentary family photography, you’re capturing candid moments that you’ll cherish forever.

 

Plus, these sessions are a chance to take a break from the grind. You’re not just checking a box on your to-do list; you’re creating an experience your family will remember. And trust me, when you look back years from now, you’ll be glad you didn’t wait for the “perfect” time.

Family falls out of hammock

Let’s Capture Your Family’s Story Together

 

Ready to schedule a stress-free family photo session? I’m here to help every step of the way. As an Edmonton family photographer, I specialise in creating relaxed, authentic experiences that fit seamlessly into your busy life.

 

Click here to book your session today or reach out with any questions. Let’s make this easy, fun, and unforgettable for your family!

Get In Touch!

Related Posts

OH HEY!

Once a month I send a fun email with quirky musings and “insider” specials. Join us!

Boy makes a silly face - from an Edmonton Family Photographer
Whenever I get your newsletter I get excited. It's quirky, I laugh, I learn something new and your pictures are drool worthy!!
LibbySubscriber Since September 2021
You are amazing! Love the read and all photos that go along with it. Your creativity amazes me and you have a talent for words.
CarmaSubscriber Since April 2023
I woke up to enjoy your email by the fireplace with hot coffee, and as always, loved every minute. You are so inspiring. I’m so lucky to have you in my life!
TeraSubscriber Since February 2022

Paula Gerein Photography

Documentary photography for families and businesses of Edmonton and Central Alberta, Canada. Available for travel.

 

© Paula Gerein Photography 2024

All rights reserved.

Contact

Breaking the Mold: Why Traditional Posed Photos Aren’t for Every Family

by
During bedtime storytime, a mother and her child look at each other with surprise from the plot twist of their book.
Let's Talk
During bedtime storytime, a mother and her child look at each other with surprise from the plot twist of their book.

Breaking the Mold: Why Traditional Posed Photos Aren’t for Every Family

Let’s face it—traditional posed family photos can be a bit, well, awkward. Think stiff smiles, unnatural poses, and the stress of getting everyone to cooperate. If you’ve ever tried to corral a toddler, a teenager, and a reluctant spouse into a perfect shot, you know what I’m talking about. Enter documentary family photography: a breath of fresh air that captures your family in its natural, chaotic, and beautiful state.

Summary:

  1. Embracing Authenticity: Capturing Real Moments
  2. Say Goodbye to Stress: No More Forced Smiles
  3. The Beauty of Imperfection: Celebrating the Chaos
  4. Reliving the Everyday: Finding Magic in the Mundane
  5. Making Memories Last: Timeless Over Timed
  6. How to Prepare for a Documentary Family Photography Session
  7. Real-life Examples: Success Stories
  8. Conclusion: Dare to Be Different
Say Hi
  1. Embracing Authenticity: Capturing Real Moments

There’s something magical about candid moments. They capture the essence of who we are, without the pretense. Documentary family photography is all about embracing authenticity. It’s about capturing those little moments that make your family unique—the way your child laughs, the look of concentration on their face as they play, the loving glance between partners.

 

Why Authenticity Matters

  • True Reflection: Documentary photography reflects your family’s true personality and dynamics, not some idealized version of it.
  • Emotional Connection: Authentic photos evoke stronger emotions and connections because they’re real and relatable.

Take a moment to think about your favourite family memories. Are they the ones where everyone is perfectly posed and dressed to the nines? Or are they the candid moments, the ones where someone is mid-laugh, eyes crinkled with joy? That’s the beauty of documentary photography—it captures the moments that matter most.

As a father and his daughter prepare to make supper together, he squats down to give her a huge hug.

2. Say Goodbye to Stress: No More Forced Smiles

 

One of the biggest perks of documentary family photography is the lack of pressure. No need to dress up in matching outfits (unless that’s your thing) or worry about getting everyone to sit still. You get to be yourselves, doing what you love, in the comfort of your own home or favourite outdoor spot.

 

Stress-Free Sessions

  • Comfort Zones: Photos are taken in familiar environments, making everyone feel more relaxed.
  • Natural Interactions: Capturing genuine interactions means no awkward poses or forced smiles—just pure, unfiltered joy.

Picture this: instead of spending hours trying to get your toddler to smile for the camera, you’re playing in the backyard, everyone is relaxed, and the photographer is capturing the real essence of your family. It’s less “say cheese” and more “let’s make memories.”

3. The Beauty of Imperfection: Celebrating the Chaos

 

Life isn’t perfect, and that’s what makes it beautiful. Documentary family photography celebrates the chaos—the messy hair, the mismatched socks, the silly faces. These imperfections are what make your family uniquely yours.

 

Imperfection is Perfect

  • Real Life: Photos that capture the everyday messiness are more meaningful and relatable.
  • Memorable Moments: The candid, imperfect moments often end up being the most cherished.

Think about it: the photo of your kid with ice cream smeared all over their face is probably way more fun and memorable than a stiff portrait. It’s these imperfect moments that tell the real story of our lives. And let’s be honest, who has time to be perfect anyway?

dad sings to son and wife using the son's foot as a microphone

4. Reliving the Everyday: Finding Magic in the Mundane

 

We often think that only special occasions are worth photographing, but there’s magic in the everyday moments too. Documentary family photography highlights the beauty of daily life—breakfast time, playtime, bedtime stories. These are the moments that truly define our lives.

 

Everyday Magic

  • Daily Rituals: Capturing daily routines creates a rich tapestry of memories.
  • Small Details: The little things, like a child’s favourite toy or the way they hold your hand, are captured forever.

Imagine flipping through a photo album and seeing the simple, everyday moments that made up your life. The morning snuggles, the chaos of getting ready for school, the quiet moments of reading together. These are the memories that matter most, and documentary photography makes sure they’re never forgotten.

5. Making Memories Last: Timeless Over Timed

 

Traditional posed photos can sometimes feel dated. Documentary family photography, on the other hand, has a timeless quality. By focusing on genuine moments and emotions, these photos remain relevant and cherished for years to come.

 

Timeless Appeal

  • Classic Moments: Genuine interactions never go out of style.
  • Everlasting Memories: These photos become treasured keepsakes that capture the essence of your family’s story.

Think about the classic photos you’ve seen of your grandparents or parents—those candid shots that capture a real moment in time. They’re timeless because they’re real. Documentary photography ensures your family’s story is captured in the same timeless way.

A father holds his child's toes between his fingers during their bedtime reading together.

6. How to Prepare for a Documentary Family Photography Session

 

So, you’re ready to break the mold and try documentary family photography. Great choice! But how do you prepare for a session that’s all about being natural and spontaneous?

 

Tips for a Successful Session

  • Be Yourself: The best thing you can do is relax and be yourself. The goal is to capture real moments, not staged ones.
  • Wear What You Want: No need to choose matching outfits, let everyone wear what they’re comfortable in.
  • Choose a Familiar Setting: Pick a location where your family feels comfortable, whether it’s your home, a favourite park, or a beloved hangout spot.
  • Engage in Activities: Do something you enjoy together—baking cookies, playing games, going for a walk. These activities will create natural interactions to be captured.
  • Consider Me Your Friend Coming to Hang Out: I always ask clients to just tell their kids that a friend is coming over to hang out. I tell these same clients to think of me as an old friend or a cousin where I just tag along for the day, you don’t need to ignore me but you also don’t need to entertain me.

Remember, the whole point of documentary family photography is to capture your family’s authentic story. So, have fun with it and let your true selves shine through.

7. Real-life Examples: Success Stories

Need some convincing? Let’s look at some real-life examples of families who embraced documentary photography and loved the results.

 

The Colgan Family

The Colgans decided to document a typical Saturday at home. The moment I walked in the house and heard Michael Jackson blaring from the speakers, I knew we were going to have an amazing time. From pancake breakfasts to Lego in the living room, then backyard soccer and a bike ride up and down the street, their photos captured the essence of their family life. They now have a beautiful album filled with real, heartfelt moments.

 

The Fistric Family

The Fistrics wanted to capture their family’s love for the outdoors while also capturing the home and neighbourhood where they live. As their photographer, I spent the day with them talking the dogs out for a walk around the neighbourhood and then backyard fun like ice cream and slip ‘n slide, capturing moments of laughter, exploration, and togetherness. The result? Stunning photos that reflect their adventurous spirit.

 

The Milan Family

The Milan chose to document their family’s bedtime routine shortly after they moved into their new home. While we started with everyone in the kitchen making homemade pasta, we finished off with photos of storytime, cuddles, and goodnight kisses which are now some of their most treasured memories.

These families embraced the authenticity and spontaneity of documentary photography, and the results speak for themselves. Their photos are not just pictures; they’re stories filled with love, laughter, and real-life moments.

A mother does a 1-2-3 swing in the air with her young daughter as they are out for a walk near the Edmonton river valley.

8. Conclusion: Dare to Be Different

 

Traditional posed family photos have their place, but if you’re looking for something different, documentary family photography is worth considering. It’s about capturing the real, the raw, and the beautiful moments that make your family unique.

 

Join the community of families who value authenticity and cherish the beauty of everyday moments. 

Get In Touch!

Related Posts

OH HEY!

Once a month I send a fun email with quirky musings and “insider” specials. Join us!

Boy makes a silly face - from an Edmonton Family Photographer
Whenever I get your newsletter I get excited. It's quirky, I laugh, I learn something new and your pictures are drool worthy!!
LibbySubscriber Since September 2021
You are amazing! Love the read and all photos that go along with it. Your creativity amazes me and you have a talent for words.
CarmaSubscriber Since April 2023
I woke up to enjoy your email by the fireplace with hot coffee, and as always, loved every minute. You are so inspiring. I’m so lucky to have you in my life!
TeraSubscriber Since February 2022

Paula Gerein Photography

Documentary photography for families and businesses of Edmonton and Central Alberta, Canada. Available for travel.

 

© Paula Gerein Photography 2024

All rights reserved.

Contact

Don’t Wait to Book Your Family Photo Session: Every Day is the Right Time

by
husband and wife cuddle on their front porch in Edmonton
Let's Talk
husband and wife cuddle on their front porch in Edmonton

Don’t Wait to Book Your Family Photo Session: Every Day is the Right Time

We often fall into the trap of waiting for the perfect moment to book a family photo session. But here’s the truth: the perfect moment is now.

Your loved ones won’t remember the details you fret over, like the state of your kitchen or your waistline. What they’ll cherish are the moments you shared together—the cannonballs into the pool, the spontaneous food fights, and the cozy snuggles by the campfire.

If you wait for everything to be ‘just right’, you might miss out on capturing those deeply special memories. Let’s explore why every day is the right day to book that family photo session.

Summary:

Say Hi

Introduction: The Myth of the Perfect Moment

 

We all have that mental checklist of things that need to be just right before scheduling a family photo session. Maybe you’re waiting to lose those last few pounds, or you want your home to be spotless. But life doesn’t wait for perfect conditions, and neither should you. Here’s why you should seize the moment and book that session now.

  1. Cherishing Spontaneous Joy: Embrace Imperfection

Let’s face it, life is messy, chaotic, and wonderfully imperfect. And that’s exactly what makes it beautiful. The times when everything goes wrong often make the best stories and the most cherished memories. Remember the time you all got caught in the rain during a family hike? Or when the kids decided the living room was the perfect place for an indoor picnic? These moments of spontaneous joy are what make your family unique.

 

  • Spontaneity Equals Authenticity: Documentary family photo sessions capture the real, unfiltered moments of your life. These are the memories that reflect your family’s true spirit.
  • Imperfection is Relatable: Future generations will cherish these honest depictions of everyday life more than any staged, picture-perfect image.
Mother son together in lake - from an Edmonton Family Photographer
  1. The Importance of Presence Over Perfection

Your family cares about your presence, not your perfection. When you look back at photos, what stands out is the connection and love you share, not the little details you worry about.

 

  • Being There: Your kids won’t remember if you had a few extra pounds or if the house was a bit messy. They’ll remember that you were there, laughing and enjoying the moment with them.
  • Showing Up: Just showing up and being part of their lives is what counts. Whether you’re tired, stressed, or not feeling your best, your presence is what matters most.
  1. Memories That Matter: Moments Over Looks

Think about your own childhood memories. Do you remember what your parents looked like on any given day, or do you remember the things you did together? The camping trips, the late-night talks, the everyday routines—these are the moments that stick with us.

 

  • Creating Lasting Memories: Photos of everyday moments, like baking cookies or playing in the backyard, become priceless treasures.
  • Focus on Fun: A family photo session should be fun and relaxed, capturing your family’s genuine interactions and emotions.
Family of six read together on couch - from an Edmonton Family Photographer
  1. Why Waiting Doesn’t Work

The idea of waiting for the perfect time is a myth. Life is unpredictable, and waiting often means missing out on capturing today’s special moments.

 

  • Time Flies: Kids grow up fast, and life’s moments are fleeting. Waiting for the perfect time might mean missing out on capturing the essence of your family as it is now.
  • Perfection is an Illusion: There will always be something that’s not quite right. Embrace the imperfections and focus on what truly matters—your family’s love and connection.
  1. Making the Most of Today: Tips for Spontaneous Photo Sessions

Booking a spontaneous family photo session can be a delightful and stress-free experience. Here are some tips to help you make the most of it:

 

  • Choose a Familiar Setting: Your home, a favourite park, or a beloved family hangout can provide the perfect backdrop for your photos.
  • Wear Comfortable Clothes: Forget about matching outfits and focus on comfort. Wear what makes you feel good and reflects your family’s style.
  • Embrace Natural Moments: Don’t worry about posing perfectly, that’s much too exhausting. Let me, as your photographer, seek out the candid moments of your family interacting naturally.
  • Have Fun: Treat the session as a fun family activity rather than a chore. Play, laugh, and enjoy the time together.
Man jumps into swimming pool - from an Edmonton Family Photographer
  1. Overcoming Common Excuses

We often find reasons to delay booking a family photo session, but most of these excuses are rooted in unnecessary worries. Here’s how to overcome some common hesitations:

 

“I’m not photogenic.” Everyone feels self-conscious in front of the camera, but a good photographer will know how to capture your best angles and moments. Remember, the goal is to capture your family’s genuine interactions, not to create a flawless portrait.

 

“Our house isn’t picture-perfect.” The beauty of documentary family photography is that it focuses on real life, not perfection. Your home, with all its lived-in charm, is the perfect backdrop for authentic photos.

 

“We’re too busy.” Life is busy, but that’s all the more reason to capture the moments that matter. A photo session doesn’t have to take all day—an hour or two is enough to create lasting memories.

  1. Documenting Aging Parents: Treasuring Time Together

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, we often forget to capture the moments we spend with our aging parents. These moments are precious and deserve to be documented just as much as our children’s milestones.

 

  • A Legacy of Love: Photos of your parents with your children, sharing stories or simply being together, create a visual legacy that your family will treasure for generations. Let’s not forget how much you will love having photographs of yourself together with your parents!
  • Capturing Wisdom and Personality: Documenting the interactions and expressions of your parents can capture the wisdom and warmth they bring to your family. You will treasure mementos that remind you of their personality, their little quirks, and everything that makes them who they are.
  • Everyday Moments: Whether it’s cooking a family recipe together, gardening, or just sitting and talking, these everyday interactions with your parents will continue to be special no matter how much time passes and life changes.
Father and adult son sit together on dock - from an Edmonton Family Photographer

Conclusion: Capture Today’s Moments

 

Don’t wait for the perfect moment to book your family photo session. Today, with all its imperfections, is the perfect time to capture the love and joy your family shares. Every day that you wake up is an opportunity to create and preserve beautiful memories.

 

By embracing the present and letting go of the pursuit of perfection, you’ll find that every day offers a chance to create beautiful, meaningful memories with your loved ones. Book your session today and celebrate the here and now!

Get In Touch!

Related Posts

OH HEY!

Once a month I send a fun email with quirky musings and “insider” specials. Join us!

Boy makes a silly face - from an Edmonton Family Photographer
Whenever I get your newsletter I get excited. It's quirky, I laugh, I learn something new and your pictures are drool worthy!!
LibbySubscriber Since September 2021
You are amazing! Love the read and all photos that go along with it. Your creativity amazes me and you have a talent for words.
CarmaSubscriber Since April 2023
I woke up to enjoy your email by the fireplace with hot coffee, and as always, loved every minute. You are so inspiring. I’m so lucky to have you in my life!
TeraSubscriber Since February 2022

Paula Gerein Photography

Documentary photography for families and businesses of Edmonton and Central Alberta, Canada. Available for travel.

 

© Paula Gerein Photography 2024

All rights reserved.

Contact