How to Plan Your at Home Family Session

If you've ever wondered how to get family photos that aren't cheesy, photos that feel like your nostalgic childhood photos, the answer isn't to meet up in a field and hope all the kids feel like smiling. The easiest way to get authentic family photos that feel like childhood memories is to invite a photographer to your home and let them tag along on a regular day. Let's romanticize the mundane days by thoughtfully documenting the details on film. Here are my favorite tips for planning your at home family session.

1. Don't Worry About What The House Looks Like

The number one reason why parents tend to put off having family photos taken is because they're waiting until life is less chaotic. Life will probably always be chaotic, you'll love those memories just as much. It's not your job to make sure the house is spotless, the garden in bloom, the outfits all matching. Instead focus on being present with your family and trusting your photographer will honor the beauty in the little things.

2. Consider Film Photography

If you're nostalgic for the warmth and imperfections of your own childhood photos, you might consider hiring a photographer that specializes in film to photograph your kid's childhood. There's something so familiar and soft about childhood memories photographed on film. It's like when your dad grabbed his 35mm camera and quickly snapped a photo of you and your brother as children. These photos feel so much more sacred than the plethora of iPhone photos you might be used to.

3. Focus The Photo Session Around an Activity The Kids Will Enjoy

It's unrealistic for kids to want to stand still and pose for photos. The best way to photograph the feeling of childhood is to let your kids play and be kids during the photoshoot. I like to recommend my families play in the backyard, ride bikes, make cookies, play in the sandbox, etc. I love to recommend thinking of your family photos as a slice of life. Even the most ordinary things you see every day are so special and you won't always be so familiar with them.

4. Hire a Photographer You Can Trust And Be Comfortable Around

I specialize in photographing families at home in a natural and unique way. If you're looking for a film photographer who appreciates nostalgia and bottling up childhood memories, let's talk about how we can work together. <3

About the photographer: Jesslyn McCartney is a hybrid digital and film photographer based in Richmond, Virginia. She takes a natural approach to documentation, capturing the beauty in little moments. With a focus on weddings, couples, and motherhood, Jesslyn's photographs are nostalgic, timeless, and emotion-centered.