Let the kids be free. Seriously. (Read on).
That’s when magic happens. As a photographer who does countless family portraits all summer long, here are a few tips for parents who want THIS genuine and authentic kind of session.
#1. You don’t have to be in the photo. Yes, I’m talking to you, Mom. Don’t worry about getting dressed up, or your hair, or your outfit being the perfect ensemble - because 99% of the time- you end up arriving to the session stressed out- and the camera can’t fix stress. Frantic moms and stressed out dads = miserable sessions; that’s why so many of us have PTSD around photos. Instead, focus on just your kids every other year - (or always)- and you will be so much happier. Promise. I haven’t done a family session with myself included because my kids and my husband called me the devil the last time I hired a photographer… I am not excluded from this list.
#2. Please don’t make your kids say “cheese”. It doesn’t work, unless you want the smile from “Chucky” in all of your photos.
#3. Don’t worry about poses. Just let the kids be kids. If your photographer is skilled- they will capture the most beautiful moments just letting your kids frolic, explore or have a tantrum. All equally great shots.
#4. Take a step back and enjoy the session. You can always pop in for a few shots at the end of the session…. You will feel more relaxed and your kids will have already let out all of their excitement & energy and be ready to have a cuddle with you …. Or slap you. Again; both great shots.
Honestly, I am so burned out from shooting the “super posed”, uncandid, stiff ass family portraits. Can we just let it go? Half the time, I have to swap heads in photoshop and make reality completely unrealistic to satisfy clients. I know I am having my own tantrum and I am ok with that. I don’t mind losing the clients who want the plastered look and I welcome anyone who wants something a bit more loose, wild and free. Because that’s when magic happens and those are the images you will cherish forever - a snapshot of who your children were at that moment in time.
🙏
A wedding at home, surrounded by the place and the people this Gold Leaf couple loves most. ✨
We designed the ceremony to feel grounded and open. An altar framed by autumn, softened by florals, and set to the quiet rhythm of the mountains.
Dinner followed under soft draping and candlelight. Long tables wrapped in texture, glowing with warmth. Guests gathered close, toasts flowed easily, and the design made space for what mattered: connection.
The night before, their rehearsal dinner captured the same mood: cozy, tactile, filled with lavender, linen, and laughter.
This wedding reminded us that when the setting is personal, the celebration becomes unforgettable.
đź“ťSave this for at-home wedding inspiration.
Could you picture your day feeling like this?
📸@taramarolda
#AtHomeWedding #AspenWedding #IntimateWeddingInspiration #GoldLeafEvents
