I love photographing families outside and chasing that gorgeous sunset, but honestly, I really love photographing families in their homes. I have had my family photos done both outdoor and in-home and quite frankly, the in-home ones have been the smoothest and most cherished photos we have. Why you ask? For so many reasons!!!

Here are a few to consider when scheduling your family photo shoot this year.

1) Emotion value/Nostalgia

Documented proof of the place your child is growing up in. Do you remember your childhood home? What details can you recall? Can you remember playing in your room? Eating in your kitchen? I lived in 5 different homes before I was 13- each one has different memories, but so much about how those memories solidified goes back to seeing pictures.

And your children will be doing the same when they get older. They want to be able to look back and feel that warm feeling in their soul that screams HOME! We can also include outdoor shots by incorporating your backyard or going for a walk or scoot through the neighborhood.

Your home is personalized to your tastes, interests, and decor. Many worry that their home is not “decorated” yet- but really, it doesn’t need to be. We are constantly redecorating, shifting, changing, and in each season, our home looks different and that’s okay. Photos are meant to honestly reflect how your family changes and evolves over time.

2) You don’t have to leave

I come to you! {Insert dance party here- no really- turn on some music for our shoot!} Imagine this- your children just finished snacks and have their clothes on, music is playing on the stereo, you pour yourself a drink of choice while you get ready, and everyone is relaxed and ready to play. Oh shoot- Keith just spilled water all over himself. No worries- because you’re home and have a closet full of outfit choices. The kids are hungry- no problem, snacks are readily available. Everything you need is readily available.

3) Comfort.

Being in your familiar environment allows for natural interactions and genuine connection. New environments and people can seem overwhelming to some kids. While I find that I’m really good at getting kids to warm up quickly and encourage exploring new areas, the reality is that kids love the comfort and safety of their own home. They get to rule the roost and show me their special places and stuffies. This allows kids to have fun and ignore the camera to achieve natural moments.

4) Pets!

It’s so much easier to include your furry (or scaly) loved ones when you’re at home. Afterall, they’re family members too.

5) Control over timing.

There are so many reasons this is important!

This one is a big one for families with babies and younger children. Those nap times are so darn important- not only for a happy child, but for your sanity too! If you have a kid who is happiest mid-morning (as most are), then we can shoot then. Same goes for the afternoon.

If you are working around a crazy sports schedule, this allows for us to shoot when it’s convenient for your family.

Not to mention that we live on the face of the sun (cough*Phoenix*cough), so scheduling your family photo shoot indoors allows for fewer sweat stains or worry about sweat dripping down your face- thank you, air conditioning!

6) Integrating family activities

From your child’s obsession with trucks to reading your favorite books to snuggling in your favorite chair to Lego towers in their rooms to princess dresses galore. An in-home photo session allows all those nuances to be preserved and treasured for years to come. These sessions are about more than just a posed picture for a holiday card- these are about preserving your family’s love story in all its’ glory.