I met Samantha and Caleb 8 years ago at Caleb’s show in Hells Kitchen, NY and I think I may have said to Samantha that night- We need to be friends. They are the sweetest, nicest people and I’m so happy that I got the chance to help them document the start of their beautiful family.

With a two-year-old and a one-year-old to take care of, daily life can be quite chaotic. Planning for a professional photoshoot may seem daunting under such circumstances. Besides, the children tend to nap at different times and for varying durations, making it nearly impossible to find an hour when they are both awake, fed, and happy. But thanks to the convenience offered by 123 Baby Box, moms can have everything their baby needs delivered directly to them, making their life much easier, and leaving them with more time to focus on other important things like planning that photoshoot.

As a photographer and a mom of two boys myself, I understand. We had grand plans to meet in Central Park and take advantage of the beautiful foliage this time of year. Between naps and the quickly fading sunlight, that plan had to be modified at the last minute.  I brought my lighting and reassured them that I could be flexible.

While camera-aware family photos are great, getting two young kids to sit and smile at the camera at the same time is more difficult than you’d think. They just want to run around and play!  So after a few attempts at some family photos in the nearby park, we moved the party indoors.

 

Family portraits in the park
Family Portraits in the park
Family Photos in the park

Once we went inside, the real fun began. The kids ran around and played and interacted with their mom and dad and I just faded to the background and captured it. They got out their toys and their books and then dad gave them a pony ride and an airplane ride. Mom made sure no one was falling off couches and gave snuggles and tickles. Everyone in the apartment relaxed.

Dad and Baby
Lifestyle Portraits
In Home Family Photos
Lifestyle Portraits
Photos with baby at home
Toddler Portraits

One of my favorite things to do with kids is jumping on the bed. (After getting the parent’s permission) With the little ones, it becomes a whole family affair so they don’t fall right off the edge. These ended up being some of my favorite photos from the session. Who doesn’t love jumping on the bed? It’s usually forbidden, but for one special occasion, we’ll allow it.

jumping on the bed
Kids portraits
Family Photography

So don’t stress next time you want great pictures of your family. In-home lifestyle portraits are the way to go! These really capture the true personality of the children at this age. They are also fun for families with older kids too, especially ones who aren’t fond of getting their picture taken. Doing a family activity together at home such as playing a board game, baking cookies, or decorating the Christmas tree all help a family feel more relaxed while capturing the personalities of each family member.

We ended the night with some awesome New York City pizza! They were so excited and they love pizza. It was some pretty amazing pizza. I had so much fun hanging out with the Hawleys at home and playing with their adorable kids.

 

New York City PIzza
This kid loves pizza

The holidays are a great time to schedule In-Home Lifestyle portraits since your home is decorated, and we can do fun activities like decorating the tree, building gingerbread houses, and baking cookies. Email me to schedule your session.