I frequently get asked if I offer mini shoots. And when I say that I don’t, people want to know why my family photo shoots take up to a whole hour. I often hear, “I don’t think my kids could last for an hour” – and I totally get that! An hour of standing still and smiling at the camera sounds impossible for most kids.

So thank goodness that’s not what we do the whole time! 😜

Why my family photo shoots take an hour:

We build time in for the kids to relax and play in between the posed shots. I get some of my favorite candid shots during those moments! Also, that “downtime” lets kids get comfortable with me too. The more I’m chatting with them, looking at the shells they find, and just letting them be kids, the more likely they are to actually look at the camera when I ask them to.

• Building Comfort: The first few minutes are all about letting the kids (and parents) get comfortable. We chat, explore the location, and I take a few test shots to help everyone relax.
• Capturing Genuine Moments: During our session, I capture those spontaneous moments when the kids are just being themselves. These often turn out to be the most cherished photos because they reflect your family’s true personality.
• Time for Breaks: I keep a close eye on whether the kids are still having fun, or if they need a break from looking at the camera. Sometimes just letting them play without any pressure for a few minutes is all the need before they are back to hamming it up in front of the camera.
• Flexibility: Kids have their own pace and moods. Having a full hour means we have the flexibility to take breaks, change activities, and ensure everyone is happy and engaged without feeling rushed.
• Creating Memories: My goal is to make the photo shoot itself a memorable experience for your family. By the end of our time together, I want your kids to have had so much fun that they forget they were even at a photo shoot.

So it’s not an hour of smiling at the camera – it’s an hour of walking, talking, exploring, chatting, playing, shooting, and making magic together! 🌟

My Photography Philosophy

I believe that the best photos come from genuine interactions and emotions. By allowing kids to be themselves (which includes time for “look at this cool shell I found!,” we not only capture beautiful images but also create a positive experience. Which makes it more likely they will actually be excited for their next photo shoot!

If you have any questions or would like to book your family photo shoot in the St. Pete/Clearwater area, just fill out my contact form. Can’t wait to capture your kiddos’ unique personalities!