Imagine this: you’re at home on a quiet Saturday morning, sunlight streaming through the windows, your kids lounging in their favourite spots, and your partner sipping coffee on the couch. The beauty of everyday life happens right there in your home, and that’s exactly what we want to capture. In one unforgettable session last year, a family’s living room turned into a magical photo setting with sunlight creating playful shadows that brought each image to life. It’s sessions like this where I leave thinking to myself “I am so glad they get it – how do I get everyone else to get this?”  So here’s my petition (again) to get you to see why your home and neighbourhood is the ideal place for your next family photography session.

Why Your Home is the Ideal Backdrop

We all want our photos to capture authentically who we are, right? (I mean if you don’t, that’s fine, but I’m not the photographer for you – and that’s OK!) Authentic photos that capture your true family dynamic is easier to achieve at home where everyone feels at ease. Full stop. Your home isn’t just a space, it’s part of your story. It’s where your kids feel safest, where you can snuggle without feeling like you’re under a spotlight, and where everyday magic happens. Whether it’s dad in his favorite chair or kids grabbing a snack in-between shots, this relaxed environment allows true personalities to shine through.

Kids feel much more comfortable and safe at home, and getting them to open up and be themselves is much easier. If they need a break or a snack they can grab it. If dad wants to wander away, he can. If your kid is hyper-fixated on a certain toy or object, we don’t have to carry it through the park. Keeping the session at home, in your yard or neighbourhood provides a sense of control for your kids, and control means safety, and safety is what allows us to be ourselves.

Tips for Making Your Living Room Photo-Ready

Preparing for an at-home session doesn’t have to be stressful. Here are a few simple tips to ensure your space photographs beautifully:

1. Embrace the Natural Light

• Schedule your session when natural light is at its best, often in the morning or afternoon.
• Pull back curtains to let the sunshine in. Light and shadows can add character to your photos.

2. Keep It Simple

• Put away unnecessary items—clutter on tables or seasonal decorations can distract from the moment.
• Toys can be fun, but keep them organized. Pop them in decorative baskets or into one corner.

3. Relax and Be Yourselves

• Don’t worry about deep cleaning—just a quick tidy is enough. I will move anything that needs to be moved beyond a simple tidy.
• Arrange blankets and pillows if that’s how you usually have them. It’s about feeling at home, not perfect.

The Heart of Why This Matters

Photographs capture more than just faces—they capture memories. An at home session tells the true story of your family’s everyday life with all its quirks and warmth – while also providing you with the beautiful images you are craving. These images transport you back to fleeting yet priceless moments, like laughter through sunlight beams or quiet morning hugs.

I ask every family what they love to do together before each session. I hear a lot of sports and outdoor activities, but more than anything else, when I ask what an ideal day together looks like, I get something along the lines of “a slow morning at home playing games, snuggling, playing outside and baking/crafts/board games together”. Those are the moments when you look around your living room and think “wow, how lucky am I?”. Let’s grasp those moments and use them as inspiration for your documented memories.

Taking it Outside

The best part about choosing your home for a session, is that we still have access to the outdoors. Just like your living room, your backyard and neighbourhood are where your family is most comfortable. If you want to get outside, let’s do it! Chances are there is some great light, and some really fun (and meaningful) things to do! Don’t let the “in-home session” title scare you – we always have options to move around.

Think local playgrounds, a walk around the block, basketball in the driveway, playing in the sandbox. It doesn’t need to be fancy, but it sure can be meaningful.

Ready to Book Your At-Home Session?

There’s unmatched value in photographs that reflect your real life, and I’m here to make the process fun and effortless. Let your home and neighbourhood be the backdrop for your family’s unique story. If you’re thinking about capturing these cherished moments, get in touch and let’s plan a session that reflects who you truly are. Want to learn more about what it feels like to work with me, check out this extended family session at a family cottage that was THE BEST!