Babies and toddlers reach so many milestones during the first two years, and some can be wary of new faces. As a Bay Area family photographer and former early childhood special educator, I always tell parents to have no expectations during their family session. I remind them to just be themselves and let me do the rest.

I might be silly and play. I may also hang back and give your baby or child time to warm up. I promise I will never make your baby or child smile or say “cheese.” Rather, I will focus on documenting who they are in that moment in time. Sometimes this means a serious baby and that’s ok! Though I do sometimes provide gentle coaching to keep everyone connected or to find the best lighting or composition, I like to follow the baby or child’s lead during family sessions. I want to capture what makes your child and family unique! And this also means no two sessions are alike!

This photo session began with a wonderful family in Glen Park in San Francisco and this sweet little girl barely cracked a smile, but when she did I was right there to capture it! This is her temperament and who she is and it was a great session. Her parents recognize this about her and respected who she is during our session together. I want families to look back at their photos and remember the natural moments and not forced smiles or poses which can cause everyone to feel more stressed. Minimal smiles doesn’t mean there wasn’t a lot of love and connection happening! Children have a range of emotions and capturing them all is capturing childhood. And my goal as a Bay Area family photographer is to capture real moments that will turn into memories.