When families think of photography, they often picture posed portraits—everyone smiling perfectly at the camera. But here’s the truth: while those portraits have their place, the heart of family photography lies in the in-between.
The way your toddler throws leaves with abandon. The way your teenager rolls their eyes but leans into you anyway. The way you and your partner share a quiet laugh as the kids run wild.
That’s what storytelling photography is all about: not just documenting what you look like, but who you are—right now, in this season of life.
Fall is the perfect backdrop for this kind of storytelling. The colors, the cozy textures, the golden light—it all creates a setting where families can relax, play, and simply be.
My Process: Creating Space for Real Connection
Every fall session begins long before I take out my camera. My job isn’t just to photograph you—it’s to create an atmosphere where your family feels at ease.
Here’s what that looks like:
-
Prep before the session: I send you a wardrobe guide, talk through locations, and answer your questions so you feel ready (not rushed) when the day arrives. (For practical planning, you may find my fall photo checklist helpful.)
-
Gentle guidance: Once we’re together, I don’t bark directions. Instead, I give prompts that spark natural interaction.
-
Room for pauses: If kids need a snack or a breather, that’s okay. The flow of the session is designed with flexibility.
-
Trust-building: I connect with your children first, so they feel like they’re part of the experience—not just being told what to do.
Prompts, Not Poses
I use prompts instead of stiff posing because they bring out genuine expression. Here are a few I often use in fall sessions:
-
Walking together: I’ll ask you to stroll down a leaf-lined path while chatting with your kids. Suddenly, it’s not “a pose”—it’s just a walk.
-
Leaf toss: A classic fall favorite—when I hand kids a pile of leaves and ask them to toss them, the laughter is instant.
-
Whispers: I’ll tell kids to whisper something silly in a parent’s ear. The giggles that follow? That’s the photo.
-
Cuddle close: I’ll wrap a blanket around your family and ask you to snuggle in. The result feels warm and timeless.
The goal isn’t to look perfect—it’s to feel connected.
Why Fall Sessions Work So Well
Autumn has a rhythm that naturally supports storytelling:
-
Golden hour light → Fall sunsets are earlier, which means soft golden light that’s perfect for kids’ schedules. If you’re curious, I dive deeper in my post on why golden hour matters.
-
Seasonal textures → Cozy sweaters, boots, scarves, and blankets add depth to the images.
-
Playful setting → Leaves become props for movement, laughter, and fun.
It’s a season that invites play and warmth, which makes my job as a storyteller so much easier.
How I Work With Kids
Kids are at the heart of family sessions, and their energy often shapes the story. Instead of trying to control them, I lean into their natural rhythms:
-
If they want to run, we make a game of it.
-
If they want to snuggle, I photograph that closeness.
-
If they need space, I give them a moment.
By following their lead, I capture images that show their true personality—not just a “say cheese” smile.
My Philosophy: Photography as Memory-Keeping
At the core, my philosophy is simple: family photography should feel like memory-keeping, not a performance.
When you look back at your gallery years from now, I don’t just want you to see what you looked like. I want you to remember:
-
The smell of crisp leaves in the air
-
The sound of your kids’ laughter echoing through the park
-
The way your family felt together in that fleeting season
That’s why I prioritize storytelling. Because your story deserves to be remembered in its fullness—not just in picture-perfect poses.
Takeaways for Your Own Fall Session
Here’s how you can help your session feel natural and story-driven:
-
Choose comfort over perfection: Cozy layers > stiff outfits.
-
Focus on connection: Don’t worry about looking at me—focus on each other.
-
Let go of perfection: Wiggly kids, messy hair, or bursts of laughter are all part of the story.
-
Trust the process: I’ll guide you every step of the way.
For extra prep help, check out my post on what not to wear for fall photos.
Final Thoughts
Every fall session is different because every family’s story is different. My role is to create a calm, welcoming space where those stories can unfold naturally.
You don’t need to worry about posing, timing, or whether your kids will “cooperate.” All you need to do is show up, be together, and let the season work its magic.
Ready to tell your family’s story this fall?
Explore my family session pricing or contact me here to reserve your spot.
