Out at the Ranch {Calgary Family Photographer}

Out at the Ranch {Calgary Family Photographer}

When planning a family session, or any session for that matter, I like to get as much information as possible to make the photography as authentic as possible. Family photography, at it’s core, is anything but natural (it’s not every day that you plan your family’s outfits and head outside only to be followed by a photographer) but I really do strive to capture the essence of the family itself. In talking with Julia, she mentioned that her son loved to throw the football and her daughter did cartwheels. So, that’s exactly what we did! I don’t think I’ll ever stop loving working with children, their joy and zest for life is inspiring and reignites my soul. This session was a lot of fun, complete with our own game of football throwing, my camera hanging by my side. Enjoy!

Hey there blue eyes {Calgary Family Photographer}

Hey there blue eyes {Calgary Family Photographer}

When you have children, there are lots of opportunities for unsolicited advice from friends, family and strangers. I was prepared for that and to be honest, most of it was either helpful or expected, usually along the lines of “Enjoy them while they’re little, they grow up too fast” (ok, so this is very very true but not an awesome statement whilst in the throes of newborn hell). Anyways, I think what made me the most surprised was how my son acted as a barrier breaker to basically, the entire population of people we have encountered. Everywhere we went, people smiled at me (well, him…. but indirectly at me. woo!), talked to me (about him), and some, more times than I can count, even boldly stretched out their arms, almost demanding to hold him. I’m pretty trusting and I love how happy he made people, so I’d usually take a quick ‘crazy reading’ and hand him over. Weird, yes, but also delightful. In the beginning, I didn’t get why people liked my son, or felt the need to engage with him or hold him or squeeze his (amazingly kissable) cheeks. However, that was before I met Oliver. Because in that first moment of meeting him, every ounce of me had to be restrained from taking him from his parents arms and cuddling and loving him with all my soul. His piercing blue eyes, perfectly chubby cheeks and joyful smile make for the cutest wee squishy baby ever. We are still enjoying the lovely winter and had a fantastic session out at Nose Hill in the northwest part of Calgary. Not only is he a cutie, he was a perfect gem for the camera. And his parents behaved too 🙂 Enjoy this awesome family. Good job you two!

Winter Family Fun {Calgary family photographer}

Winter Family Fun {Calgary family photographer}

I never really know what to expect when I enter a family’s home for their portrait session. But always, without a doubt, we have the best time. I have loved working with children for as long as I can remember, as far back as junior high when I would look after the neighborhood children and put on camps for spring break. Although weddings and engagements are my main focus (pun!), family sessions continue to be important to me. Documenting family life, especially now that I have my own little man, is something that I will always love. I think it all comes back to telling stories; I want to tell stories and I want to capture moments. Check out this gorgeous family. I love that we all suited up and braved the chilly weather for some awesome outdoor shots!

Family time {Calgary family photographer}

Family time {Calgary family photographer}

Is it superhero time yet? Honestly, I couldn’t wait for superhero time but I have to say little Mr.C was absolutely wonderful and patient while we all waited for superhero time. There’s nothing like driving up to a family session and parking outside one of the most beautiful heritage homes I have ever seen. Nancy and Stu have impeccable taste, that is for certain. And the spaces within were so much fun to work with. Seeing as how they just moved in, we utilized the moving boxes and their home became the studio. It was such a neat environment to shoot in. As always, I love seeing my families grow and it is so special to me to capture it year after year.

A little more fall! {calgary family photographer}

A little more fall! {calgary family photographer}

I love photographing families and seeing children grow. I shot this sweet little family a couple years ago and couldn’t have been happier to hear from them again. The leaves were almost all down so I chose a spot that would work regardless and when the leaves are on the ground, well, then you get to throw them! We really had so much fun and my favourite part was watching the excitement on the girls’ faces just before Mom and Dad threw leaves on them.