If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to have your family photographed by me, this post is for you. Complete with real images from a recent lifestyle family photography session in Chatham-Kent, kind words from past clients and a little peek behind the scenes so you know exactly what to expect!
Before the Session: Planning with Purpose
Before every family session I send a questionnaire to get to know my families and little bit more. It asks questions like “tell me a little bit about your kids.. what are they interested in… are they uneasy around strangers?”. These types of questions allow me to come prepared and know the best way to approach your little ones with compassion. By asking all of these questions, I want you to come into the session feeling cared for and seen!
I also ask what season of life you are in – I want to know what your day to day is like so I can honour that in your session. When you look back on these images in 5-10 years, I want you to see images that reflect your true season of life and make you smile with gratitude.
A Session Prep Guide gets emailed to you a few weeks before the session with tips for picking outfits and locations, if needed. The Session Prep Guide also outlines how the session will go, and how to go into it with the right mindset. Letting go of perfection and unrealistic expectations, and meeting your kids where they are at guarantees you can relax and truly enjoy the moment! These small steps in preparation go a long way in ensuring we are all ready for the best experience, and that you feel comfortable!
Want more details on how to prepare? Check out this blog post I wrote on how to prep your family and husband for your session!
During the Session: Laid Back, Fun & Real
Although I will always deliver a few images of your family posed together and smiling at the camera, the bulk of the session is spent engaging with your kids and interacting with each other. You know what makes you smile genuinely?! Hint: it’s not me and my poop jokes. It’s your kids! When you laugh, play and have fun with your kids your energy shifts and your body language clearly communicates your affection.
I know everyone feels awkward with a camera in your face, so I will always provide gentle guidance and tips, and make sure we are making the most of the best light. However, the BEST images are always the ones where you are in the moment, so feel free to completely ignore me.
Here’s what Allison said after this recent session: “You always make sessions so enjoyable for everyone. We all had fun!”. My goal is always a laid back and fun experience for everyone!
If you’re booking a newborn session, check out this post that goes into more detail on an in-home newborn experience!
After the Session: More Than Just Photos!
I always send a sneak peek within a few days of your session because I know everyone loves them (and it often sets your mind at ease!), plus I usually CANT WAIT to dig into the gallery.
When your final gallery is delivered, it will include a slideshow of your images (which I always recommend you watch first!), and the full gallery for you to view and download. The slideshow is such a lovely emotional experience for people, here’s what recent clients have said: “Britt!!! They’re soooo goooooddd!!! I’m so happy!!! I’m literally tearing up watching this.”
One bonus of the galleries I provide is you can order prints directly from the link I send! No need to deal with a third party, you can get your prints from my favourite Canadian Lab (GTA Imaging) right from the gallery with just a few clicks! I always suggest printing your images because they can be amazing daily reminders of the beauty of this season you’re in. Photographs of my family bring me into such a deep state of gratitude – that’s what I want for you, too!
Why It Matters
I know I don’t need to explain to you why this work is so important, but I can’t stress it enough. Our babies are growing FAST. There is no slowing down time, and before we know it they will be grown. Taking an hour each year to slow down with your family and embrace the moment you are in is a gift for your whole family. It’s not about looking perfect. It’s about remembering how it felt to be together in this season of life.
Ready When You Are!
As always, you can contact me to get the planning process started for your next family session. Summer 2025 sessions are booking up quickly, and before you know it fall will be here. It’s never too early to book – reach out today to snag up your spot.
Brittany VanRuymbeke is a Chatham-Kent and Sarnia lifestyle family & newborn photographer. She specializes in laid back, real life sessions that blend perfect light with imperfect people.
