Burnside Farms Tulips

Our Spring Visit to Burnside Farms: Tulips, Sunshine, and Sweet Memories

A Storytelling Spin on Spring Family Photos at Burnside Farms

Each year, one of our favorite springtime traditions is heading out to Burnside Farms. The tulip and sunflower fields are pure magic—and the perfect setting for spring family photos that feel real, relaxed, and joyful. This year, I brought my camera, not for perfectly posed portraits, but to tell the story of our day.

Documenting the Day, Not Just the Pose

I always grab a season passport so we can visit a few times throughout the season. This year, the girls picked their own outfits (Althea I’m pretty sure wore the same dress from last spring), and I gave maybe one gentle photo suggestion. Everything else unfolded naturally.

My favorite part? The hill covered in clover. As the girls ran up and over, the tulip fields suddenly came into view like a hidden surprise. The farm rotates its crops, so the flower locations change each year—which makes it feel fresh every time we go.

One of the best things about spring family photos at Burnside Farms is the variety of ways kids can just be kids. My girls found feathers, rocks, and even a lost stuffed dog that they returned to a toddler who dropped it. They bounced on the giant pad, shared a lemonade, and played for hours on the playground and in the iconic little blue house.

This time, I didn’t stress about curating the perfect Instagram post. I leaned fully into storytelling—capturing the connection, joy, and exploration that filled our day. I didn’t photoshop out the crowds or try to hide the realness of the farm (though I did crop out the porta-potties... priorities, right?).

Why I Love Spring Photoshoots Like This

As a family photographer, I believe the most meaningful images come from connection, not perfection. Spring photoshoots at places like Burnside Farms give families space to be themselves. The natural light, open space, and playful energy of the fields allow for storytelling images that reflect your family’s real life—not just how it looks, but how it feels.

If you’re dreaming of spring family photos surrounded by tulips, or just want a session where your kids can run free and be themselves, this is the perfect spot.

Sunset Light and Storytelling Sessions

If you’re thinking about planning your own visit, Burnside Farms offers both early bird and sunset admission tickets. And let me tell you—sunset at the farm is something special. The light drops perfectly over the fields, casting a golden glow that’s dreamy for spring photoshoots.

I’ll be accepting a limited number of storytelling sessions at Burnside Farms this season, including a few during golden hour for those dreamy spring family photos with warm evening light. If that sounds like something you’d love, I’d be honored to document your family's connection in such a beautiful place.

Looking Ahead: Summer Sunflowers + Storytelling Sessions

Burnside Farms isn’t just beautiful in spring—sunflower season is coming soon!

Interested in booking your own session? Lets connect and plan something magical! CLICK HERE

Beautiful Locations for Senior Pics Near Me

Class of 2025 Senior Photo at Greensprings Gardens, Fairfax County

The Perfect Senior Photo Location – Green Spring Gardens

If you're searching for senior photos near me in Northern Virginia, Greenspring Gardens in Fairfax County is an incredible spot. This location offers a mix of lush gardens, charming pathways, and beautiful natural backdrops that create a stunning setting for your senior portraits. Whether you want a classic, elegant look or something fun and creative, this garden provides endless possibilities.

The Best Time of Day for Your Senior Photos

I know how busy senior year can be—between school, sports, and activities, it can feel impossible to squeeze in a photo session. The good news? Golden hour—the hour before sunset—offers the most flattering, dreamy light and gives us later evening availability as the days grow longer. This means we can schedule your session after practice, games, or club meetings without sacrificing that perfect glow.

No Stress If You're Scheduling Late

Worried that you’re running behind on booking your senior portraits? Don’t be! There’s no "perfect" timeline—what matters most is capturing this moment in your life. Whether you book early in the school year or wait until spring, we’ll create stunning, timeless images you’ll love. The most important thing is choosing a time that works for you and makes the experience stress-free.

Congratulations Class of 2025

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Congratulations Class of 2025 〰️

Beautiful Golden Hour Senior Pic

While Green Spring Gardens is one of my absolute favorites, I also love getting creative at:

Lorton Workhouse – A unique artistic and historical setting with an urban edge.

Lorton Workhouse

A unique artistic and historical setting with an urban edge.

Lorton Workhouse Senior Session

Ellanor C. Lawrence Park – A beautiful mix of woodlands, meadows, and historic buildings for a natural yet timeless feel.

FAUQUIER COUNTY

Old Town Warrenton – Cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and a charming small-town vibe.

Northern Fauquier Park – Open fields, tree-lined paths, and a relaxed outdoor feel.

Your Favorite Spot! – Let’s incorporate a location that’s meaningful to you, whether it’s your high school stadium, a coffee shop, or a scenic trail.

Green Spring Garden Senior Photo

Book Your Senior Photos at Green Spring Gardens

Senior portraits should be fun, stress-free, and all about YOU. If you're searching for senior picture photographers near me in Northern Virginia, I’d love to create an unforgettable session at Greens Spring Gardens or another amazing location. Click below to book your session or reach out with any questions!

👉 Click here to view my full Senior Portrait Experience and book your session!

Finding the Right Photographer for You
I would absolutely love to work with you, but more than anything, I want you to find the best photographer for your needs! Your senior photos should reflect who you are, so choosing the right photographer is important. If you decide to book a session at any of the beautiful parks in Fairfax County, keep in mind that most require a photography permit. Green Spring Gardens has an additional photography application, but don’t worry—it’s super easy, and the park is great to work with!

Newborn Photographer Near Me | Authentic Newborn Stories

Northern Virginia - Newborn Photographer

Welcoming a new baby is an incredibly special time, but let’s be honest—it can also be overwhelming. Between sleepless nights, diaper changes, and adjusting to your new routine, the idea of getting everyone camera-ready for a traditional newborn photoshoot might feel impossible. That’s where a documentary-style newborn session comes in.

When you search newborn photographer near me, you’ll find plenty of options—but if you’re looking for a style that captures the raw, beautiful moments of your baby’s first days without the pressure of perfect poses, a documentary-style session might be just what you need.

Instead of worrying about staging every detail, you can relax and simply soak in these fleeting moments while I document them naturally. These newborn portraits will reflect the real love, connection, and tiny details that make this time so unforgettable.

Why Choose a Documentary Newborn Session?

Traditional newborn photography often requires posed setups, baskets and props, specific lighting, and a studio environment. While those photos can be beautiful, they may not reflect the real, intimate moments of early parenthood.   A documentary-style session allows you to embrace the reality of newborn life—the snuggles, the sleepy stretches, the tiny fingers grasping yours, and the real reactions of siblings adjusting to their new baby brother or sister.  We can use your space as is, no need to stress about the baby sleeping or not.  It all works out and Real Life is beautiful.

Here’s why so many new moms love this stress-free approach:

No Need to “Get Ready”

Forget the pressure of dressing everyone in coordinated outfits or making sure your home is spotless. A documentary newborn session takes place in the comfort of your own home, capturing your family just as you are. Whether you’re cuddling on the couch, feeding your baby, or enjoying a quiet moment in the nursery, the focus is on real connections, not staged perfection.

If you love to plan and feel like you need to “get ready” but just can’t seem to pull it all together—breathe. This session isn’t about perfection. If it helps you feel more comfortable, make the bed (but don’t worry, it’ll get wrinkled with all the cuddles anyway). Clear off the nightstand if the clutter is distracting you—shove it in a drawer or under the bed if that’s easiest. And if you don’t have time? No stress. I can help move a thing or two when I arrive, or we can leave everything exactly as it is. If you want the purest documentary-style session, embrace your space as it is—because these moments are beautiful just the way they are.

Warrenton Newborn Family Photography

2. No Fighting for Smiles

If you have older children, you know how hard it can be to get them to sit still and “say cheese.” The beauty of a documentary session is that there’s no need for forced grins. Instead, I capture the genuine interactions—big siblings peeking into the bassinet, tender kisses, and spontaneous giggles. These are the moments you’ll want to remember. And when the baby needs a break to eat, it’s the perfect time to focus on the older siblings—documenting what they love during this special season. Whether it’s playing a favorite game, showing off their latest artwork, or flipping through their most-loved book, these moments help tell the full story of your growing family.

3. Every Detail, Naturally Preserved

Babies change so quickly in those first few weeks. A documentary session ensures you’ll have a timeless collection of images that tell the full story of this season in your life. The way your newborn curls up on your chest, their tiny yawns, the way their fingers wrap around yours—these are the details that truly matter.

A Newborn Session That Fits Your Life

Instead of feeling like another task on your to-do list, a documentary newborn session allows you to slow down and savor these first days without stress. Your baby doesn’t have to be asleep the entire time. You don’t have to follow a strict schedule. You simply get to be present, knowing that every heartfelt moment is being captured authentically.

If you’re searching for a newborn photographer near me who specializes in natural, unscripted storytelling, I’d love to document this chapter of your family’s journey. Let’s create images that feel real, emotional, and entirely yours.

Book your session today!

Tulip Storytelling at Burnside Farms: Family Moments

Plus + tips on how to have a stress free visit to Burnside Farms

Springtime Storytelling Sessions at Burnside Farms

Spring at Burnside Farms is pure magic—endless fields of tulips and daffodils, golden light, and the joy of little hands picking flowers. This year, I’m offering something different from traditional mini sessions: documentary-style storytelling sessions that allow your family to simply explore, play, and soak in the season—while I capture the moments as they unfold.

What Makes These Sessions Different?

Instead of posed, rushed photos, these 30-minute sessions are all about capturing the genuine joy and wonder of your family’s time at the farm. Whether it’s your child running through the flower fields, picking the perfect bloom, or enjoying a quiet moment together, I’ll be there to document it naturally. No stiff poses—just real, beautiful memories. We can still get a few posed photos of the group, but even these will have a more natural candid feel. Even if it’s your toddler obsessing over the gravel pile or the rocks on the paths, these are the fleeting memories that we overlook sometimes. My kids love the rocks.

Why Choose a Storytelling Session?

• Your kids can be themselves—no pressure, no forced smiles.

• You get a mix of playful, candid moments and artistic details.

• The session flows with your family’s natural rhythm.

• No stress over perfect outfits—just come as you are!

Tips for Your Visit to Burnside Farms

To make the most of your session (and your visit), here are a few tips:

1. Get Your Tickets Early – Burnside Farms requires tickets, and they can sell out fast! Purchase them through their website, and follow their Instagram page to stay updated on bloom times and availability. Here is the link to their website https://www.burnsidefarms.com

   If you plan on visiting the flower fields multiple times. Burnside Farms offers a yearly passport ticket. This is great and you can visit for both the Burnside Farms tulips and the Burnside Farms Sunflowers which are usually in late July. These passports do sell out every year, so check their site to see what they are offering.

2. Be Ready for Unpredictable Weather – My family and I have been going since 2020, and we’ve had visits where the breeze was FREEZING and others where the girls were sweaty and hot. The fields can also be muddy, so wear layers and bring shoes you don’t mind getting a little dirty.

3. Relax & Let the Kids Be Themselves – One of the best things about a storytelling session is that you don’t need the “perfect” outfits. Let your little ones dress comfortably so they can explore and enjoy the experience fully.

4. Plan for Crowds – Weekdays tend to be less busy than weekends.

5. Bring a Picnic – After your session, enjoy some downtime together with a picnic or a treat from the farm stand. Depending on the time you visit they often have food trucks. There is an area with jump pads and a play area for the kids to explore. This area also can make for great storytelling opportunities.

If you are interested in a Burnside Farms Photography Session let’s connect!

After your Burnside Farms Tulip photos there are plenty of restaurants in some nearby towns for great food! There also a bunch of great breweries and wineries close as well. If you are searching for lodging Gainesville, Haymarket or Warrenton offer great options.

Here are a few links to places we have gone and enjoyed:

https://2silosbrewing.com (Manassas)

https://theblacksheeprestaurant.com (Manassas)

https://castironcrafthouse.com (Warrenton)

https://www.spitonyspizza.com (Warrenton)

https://www.vagateway.com (Gainesville Town Center- has a ton of different shopping and restaurant options)

Capturing Authentic Family Moments | Documentary/LifeStyle Photography in Warrenton, Virginia

As a family and couples photographer in Warrenton, Virginia, I believe the most cherished photos come from unscripted moments—the ones filled with genuine laughter, tender embraces, and everyday adventures. Photographing my own daughters during an outdoor mini session, reaffirmed why I am so passionate about documentary-style photography.

Why Choose Documentary Family Photography?

Unlike traditional posed portraits, documentary-lifestyle photography allows families and couples to be themselves. Instead of forcing stiff smiles and perfect poses, I focus on capturing the essence of your relationships—the way your children giggle when they run through a field, the way you hold hands without thinking, and the spontaneous moments that make your family unique.

During my sessions with my daughters, I let them explore, play, and interact naturally. I documented the little details—wind in their hair, the sparkle in their eyes, and the way they tried to catch snowflakes on their tongues. These small, fleeting moments tell a far more powerful story than any staged pose ever could. Most sessions are a hybrid of documentary and lifestyle. The difference is that sometimes I will give the kids or you a prompt or direction on ways you can interact with the environment. I also love grabbing a few of those Christmas card everyone looking at the camera images. These would not be considered “true documentary” style.

The Beauty of Outdoor Family Photography in Warrenton, Virginia

Warrenton, Virginia, is the perfect backdrop for outdoor family photography. With its rolling hills, scenic parks, and golden-hour light, it offers a beautiful and natural setting for capturing authentic family moments. Whether it’s a playful session at Rady Park, a nature walk through Whitney State Forest, or a golden sunset at Vint Hill Farms Park, I strive to create an experience where families feel at ease and can enjoy the moment together.  Other fun ideas could be a session at the Warrenton Farmers market or a First Friday, while the family dances to some of the awesome local bands Fauquier County has to offer. 

Book Your Documentary-Style Family Session

If you’re looking for a family photographer in Warrenton, Virginia, who specializes in capturing unscripted, heartfelt moments, I’d love to work with you. Let’s create images that tell your family’s unique story in the most authentic way possible. Contact me today to book your session and preserve these fleeting moments forever.

Maternity Photoshoot in Warrenton, Virginia

Tips on how to Style Your Family for Photos

Warrenton, Virginia offers an abundant amount of gorgeous locations for stunning photos. I met this fellow Art Teacher for a maternity shoot and let me tell you it was POURING RAIN right before the shoot! Since we both are pretty creative we figured we would give it a try. I ran into our local grocery story and grabbed a couple ponchos, and an umbrella. Then I remembered my gear… I wasn’t sure how to keep this protected so grabbed a few of those rain caps that my grandmother used to wear to church. The clear plastic ones, just wrapped my camera all up and we were good to go!

Other than the weather often we worry about what to wear for our family photos. Here are some tips I use with my clients to help keep them comfortable but also feeling like they are looking their best authentic selves.

How To Decide What to Wear For Your NORTHERN VIRGINIA PHOTOSHOOT

Keep It Simple & Authentic: Focus on what feels like “you” as a family. Choose clothing that reflects your personal style and lifestyle. Think everyday outfits that make you feel good—nothing too fussy or stiff. I would suggest not choosing the outfit you never want to put on. Choose something that brings you JOY!

1. Coordinate, Don’t Match: Avoid identical outfits for everyone. Instead, choose colors and textures that complement each other. Stick with a color palette. You can also choose one persons shirt, or moms dress and coordinate off of that. Think about where your shoot will be. If you are planning on having your shoot in a very green area you could choose light pinks and neutrals to complement that scene. Now this being said “Rules” are meant to be broken, also this isn’t really a rule. If you love your kids to be in matching attire GO FOR IT! I’ve shot plenty of shoots where the kids are matching and they came out beautiful. I would maybe suggest that the whole family doesn’t show up in the same plaid shirt, but again if that’s your thing let’s totally go for it!

2. Layering Adds Dimension: Adding layers can create texture and visual interest without making things look too busy. Consider throwing on cardigans, jackets, scarves, or hats for an extra touch of style. Don’t forget your jewelry. I don’t always were my rings to school and I forgot to put them on for a personal shoot once and was kind of bummed after. Think about things that have meaning.

3. Think About Comfort: The more comfortable you feel, the more natural your photos will look. Choose clothes that allow movement, especially for kids. This helps capture those candid, playful moments. Don’t forget the shoes too. A toddler that has sensory issues and doesn’t like uncomfortable shoes, just let it go and compromise. The photos are memories of the season of life you are in. It’s OK. Also don’t wear heels if we are going to be shooting in a muddy field, we can always change shoes throughout the shoot as well.

4. Incorporate Personal Details: Add a personal touch to your outfits—a favorite piece of jewelry, a cherished sweater, or shoes that you love. These small details help make the photos more “you.”

5. Textures Over Logos: Choose fabrics and textures that photograph beautifully, like cotton, linen, wool, and denim. Avoid large logos or graphics that can distract from the moment and make the photo feel less timeless.

6. Keep Kids in Mind: For children, choose clothing that allows them to be themselves—whether that’s a little twirl in a dress or running around in jeans. When they’re dressed in clothing they feel good in, their personality will shine through naturally. If you can avoid pops of neon on shoes that can also help, again if its all the kid will wear don’t worry about it.

7. Plan for the Weather: Since we’ll be shooting outdoors in a beautiful park setting, keep an eye on the weather and bring layers in case it’s chilly. Comfortable shoes for walking around are also a must!

8. Avoid Over-Styling: You don’t need to overthink every detail. The goal is for your family to feel relaxed and comfortable. Keep hair and makeup natural—just a little touch-up to help you feel fresh.

9. Have Fun with It: Don’t stress about being “perfect.” Let your family’s personality shine through, whether that means a little messy hair, playful wrinkles in clothes, or spontaneous moments of laughter.

Capturing the Beauty in Imperfection: Spring Family Photos

Beautiful Fairfax County Park with Virginia Bluebells

As a mom, you know how quickly time passes. One moment, your little one is learning to walk, and the next, they’re asking for help with homework. Between the sleepless nights, endless errands, and trying to keep everything together, it’s easy to feel like you’re always running behind. But amidst the chaos, there are these beautiful, fleeting moments—your child’s messy hair, that infectious laugh, the way your family hugs after a long day.

Spring is the perfect time to capture these memories with Spring Family Photos. The warmer weather, blooming flowers, and golden evening light create a stunning backdrop for photos that feel natural and full of life. If you're looking for a photography experience that goes beyond just a posed picture and captures the real, authentic essence of your family, I’d love to help you document these special moments.

Why Candid Photos Matter

Sure, family portraits where everyone’s looking at the camera and smiling are great for the fridge or that beautiful print above the fireplace. But let’s be honest: the real magic happens when you’re not posing for the camera. When you’re laughing, running, playing, or just being yourselves—that’s where the heart of your family’s story truly shines.

Spring is the perfect season for capturing these moments with Spring Family Photos. The warm breeze, blooming flowers, and golden light set the scene for playful, joy-filled images that feel as natural as your love for each other. As a local photographer, I specialize in documenting these authentic connections—so instead of stiff poses, you’ll get real, heartfelt memories that reflect your family’s unique bond.

Even though candid photos might feel a little unpolished, they are the ones that will make you smile for years to come. The way your toddler grabs your hand to pull you into a game, the look of excitement on your teenager’s face when they share a secret with you—these moments are priceless, and they deserve to be captured in a way that feels true to your family.

We’ll still take a few posed Spring Family Photos that you’ll want to print and hang on your walls. These are the images where everyone looks their best, giving you that beautiful, cohesive family shot. But even in these moments, I encourage a little movement, a little wiggle, a little life in the photo—sometimes a little silly, but always fun!

As a local photographer, my goal is to make sure that even in your posed shots, your family still feels like you. I know how important it is for you to look great, but I also want you to feel comfortable and authentic. We’ll work together to find a style that feels natural, coordinated, and effortless—so your photos capture the true essence of your family.

I’m all about creating a relaxed, genuine experience where you feel like yourselves—just a little more polished! Need help choosing outfits? Check out my styling tips here.

The parks in Fairfax County and Northern Virginia are gorgeous as our backdrops. Picture this: soft, filtered light streaming through the trees, lush spring greens all around, and the occasional pop of bluebells. It’s the ideal setting for both candid and posed shots, and it’s where your family can truly shine.  If you are a photographer make sure you check with the local Park Authority.  Some of the parks need separate reservations and pay a fee.  For all of the Fairfax County Parks you need a photography permit.  

Here is the link to help get that process started https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/press/photography-permit

Whether we’re chasing after your little ones or creating a peaceful moment of stillness, you’ll have a gallery of spring images that feel as timeless as they do personal.

Why Personal Projects help Creativity

365 Project: From the Camera of a Warrenton Virginia Family Photographer and Art Teacher

Staying Creative in a Rut: The Power of a 365 Photography Project

Let’s face it: we all experience creative ruts. Life has a way of throwing us off balance, whether it’s the gloomy winter blues, a challenging personal moment, or simply feeling uninspired. As a photographer, I’ve been there too. The magic of creating can sometimes feel out of reach, but through trial, error, and persistence, I’ve found that staying creative is one of the best ways to shake off those feelings of being stuck.

Creativity, in my experience, isn’t something you just “find.” It’s something you cultivate. And sometimes, that cultivation means trusting the process—especially when it feels hard to trust yourself. One of the most rewarding ways I’ve kept my creativity flowing has been through personal projects.

Taking advantage of the fun caboose in one of Old Town Warrenton’s Public Spaces

In 2020, I took on my first 365 project. If you’re not familiar with what that is, don’t worry—I’ll explain. A 365 project is a self-imposed challenge where you commit to taking one photo every day for an entire year. No exceptions, no excuses. It’s a deep dive into the art of consistency and discipline, but also a profound way to keep yourself engaged in the creative process, day after day.

At first, the thought of taking a photo every single day felt daunting. I wondered: Could I really keep this up? Would I burn out? But what I didn’t anticipate was how incredibly rewarding the journey would be. By the end of the year, I not only had a catalog of photos that documented my personal growth and changing perspectives, but I also had a treasure trove of memories, moments, and experiments. Some images were perfect; others were messy. But each day’s photo was a step forward in my creative journey. 

Burnside Farms Tulip Festival

Why a 365 Project Works (And Why It’s Perfect for Creative Ruts)

What I love most about a 365 project is that it’s entirely personal. There’s no “right” way to do it. The beauty of it lies in the flexibility and freedom to make the rules up as you go. People often think there are strict guidelines when it comes to personal projects like this—like you need to have a perfect shot every day or follow a specific theme. But that’s not the case. The rules are yours to set, and it’s important to remember that you can break them whenever you need to.

Sometimes, the most valuable part of a project like this isn’t the final result but the act of showing up every day. It’s about the commitment to creativity, even on days when you’re feeling uninspired or low. And trust me—there will be days when it feels harder than others. But that’s where grace comes in.

Relaxing over winter break

The Secret to a 365 Project: Giving Yourself Grace

One of the hardest lessons I learned during my 365 project was that it’s okay to break your own rules when necessary. Perfectionism can be paralyzing, and the pressure to “get it right” can often take away the joy of creating. Some days, I’d find myself running out of ideas or feeling too tired to pick up my camera. And that’s when I learned the importance of giving myself grace.  If I had to miss a day I tried to pick up the next day and take two images.  Often at different parts of the day or from two different scenes.  

Some days, my photos were imperfect or simple—some were even taken on my phone in a rush—but I still counted them as part of my project. I allowed myself to be human, to experiment, and to fail. That’s what kept the process sustainable. Creativity isn’t always about producing masterpieces; it’s about showing up, taking risks, and staying curious.

4/365 from my first 365

Taking the First Step: Starting Your Own 365 Project

If you’re feeling stuck, or if you want to stretch your creative muscles, I can’t recommend starting a 365 project enough. It’s a wonderful way to stay motivated, keep learning, and connect with your craft in a new way. The first step is simple: decide that you’re going to commit to one photo every day for a year. Then, let go of the need for perfection. Allow yourself room to grow, experiment, and sometimes even fail.

The process is what matters. Trust it.

Some things to consider when starting

1. Where will you leave your camera so you have easy access to it.

2. Will you allow yourself to use your cell phone for images, or will you just stick to your DSLR or Mirrorless camera?

3. When will you edit your images. Setting up a workflow for the week really can help keep you on track. For example plan to do all your personal edits Tuesdays and Saturdays.

4. How will you stay organized? (This was the hardest part for me, and still is). Make sure your cameras metadata is correct and you can use Lightroom to help you remember the dates images were taken. Will you be strict with your dates or flexible if you are staying within a weeks time etc?

5. How will you store and number your final exported images. Some common practices for labeling are 1/365.

6. There are great resources out there and Facebook groups that you can join with other artists who are working a 365s. This can help you stay focused and on track. These groups can also provide inspiration for photo ideas.

34/365 Round 1: 2020

Staying creative through the tough moments isn’t easy, but it’s one of the best ways to keep the winter blues—or any creative slump—at bay. The 365 project taught me that creativity is a journey, not a destination. It’s about showing up, staying curious, and trusting the process, even when it feels difficult. So if you’re in a rut, grab your camera (or your phone!) and start taking that one photo every day. You might just be amazed at where the journey takes you.

Why Sunset at Manassas Battlefield is a Perfect Spot for your Northern Virginia Engagement Session

When you are planning your engagement photos, choosing a location is one of the first steps.  You want a spot that reflects you as a couple.  You’re looking for something beautiful, timeless, and most importantly, relaxed.  If you and your partner are laid-back, value nature and love sunsets a SUNSET BATTLEFIELD PHOTOSHOOT could be the perfect choice. 

Peace and Quiet: A Relaxed, Stress-Free Experience

One of the best reasons to consider a sunset photoshoot in at the battlefields is the solitude it offers. Unlike more popular tourist spots, there are spots on the battlefields that tend to have fewer visitors, especially during the later hours of the day. This means you and your fiancé can relax, enjoy each other’s company, and truly be yourselves without worrying about large crowds or distractions.

Imagine this: You’re walking hand-in-hand through vast open fields with golden light illuminating the sky, and not another soul in sight. It’s the perfect backdrop for you to focus on each other and create genuine, candid moments. Whether you’re laughing sharing a quiet conversation, or simply enjoying the beauty of the moment, the calm atmosphere lets you embrace your laid back nature—making for authentic engagement photos that truly capture the essence of your relationship.

Nature’s Beauty: Trees as a Natural Filter for the Sunset

At the Manassas Battlefields, and similar locations, the stunning tree lines provide a beautiful natural filter for the setting sun. These trees not only add depth and texture to your photos, but they also create a soft, warm glow that bathes you both in a beautiful light. Whether you’re standing under a canopy of trees or walking through an open field, the light filtering through the branches creates a dreamlike effect that enhances your photos and gives them a romantic, timeless feel.

Golden hour—that special period just before sunset—offers the softest, most flattering light. It’s when the sun is low in the sky, casting long shadows and warm tones across the landscape. For couples who want photos that look effortlessly beautiful and full of natural light, this is an ideal time to shoot. The surrounding nature enhances the feeling of peace, calm, and intimacy, making it perfect for couples who want their photos to feel natural and warm.

Shoot right through sunset into blue hour and you can maybe even get some moon shots. This was the sweetest couple and I can’t wait for their wedding day!

Interested in a battlefield session! Reach out and let’s get planning.

INTERESTED CLICK HERE!

Timeless Treasures

The Importance of Documenting Memories with Grandparents

Extended Family Photography Sessions

Looking back on my childhood, the memories of my grandparents and the time spent with them are some of my favorites. These memories are not necessarily of the big events in life, but the more ordinary everyday interactions with them. My paternal grandfather sitting in his chair after working on the farm. My maternal grandfather, “Pepere,” taking us for long, slow boat rides around the lake. I have vivid memories of sitting on the floor with my cousins, looking through page after page of old photos of our great grandparents in those sticky photo albums.

In this post, I discuss why I love to include grandparents in your sessions.

Often, we are so busy with the chaos of everyday life that we get caught up in the present and forget to treasure the past. With an immediate family photo shoot, we often overlook the importance of adding the other people in our lives who help make our families run. I’m using the term grandparents here, but this could be anyone: a close family friend, an aunt or uncle, or even a nanny who has been with your family forever. I have often had clients ask if they could include their parents in the session. My answer is always ABSOLUTELY!

Adding multiple generations into your images is not just about adding another face; it's about preserving a memory for your children and their children, embracing history, and cherishing the bonds that tie us together. This can add to the richness and depth of your story.

Photoshoots with grandparents can be as casual as a walk in the park or reading books on the couch to a more formal family portrait session. Where does your family most often spend time? These moments freeze time, allowing us to revisit them when we need a reminder of the love that surrounds us. Scheduling a Generational Storytelling shoot will highlight the interconnectedness of family dynamics through photographs.

Tips for Including Grandparents in Your Photoshoots

1. Plan Ahead: Often we don’t include our parents in our images because they don’t love having their photograph taken. Give them and yourself time and come up with a place that is special to your family and story. Choose a spot that is accessible to everyone. Think about the location of amenities and everyone's mobility. Where do you love to spend time together? The location doesn’t have to be fancy. Front porches, living rooms, and kitchens can offer wonderful backdrops for family storytelling.

2. Styling: Be authentic and comfortable. Unless you are purposely doing a formal shoot, wearing your everyday clothes is totally fine. This is great for really allowing the true story to come out. I suggest avoiding logos and large graphics, but other than that, stay true to yourself. You can choose a color scheme, but try to steer away from being too matchy-matchy.

3. Be Patient and Flexible: Adding more people to a session can sometimes create a bit more chaos. This is fine; allow for some extra time and headspace for this. Be realistic in your expectations. A session with me is about documenting the connections and candid moments. Try not to force things from both the young and older members of the group. Sometimes our mothers and fathers have strong opinions about how the photographs should be. Share some work with them prior and help prep them to know that the shoot is about the interactions, not the poses.

4. Focus on Relationships: We can work on planning an activity that will help engage all members of the group to relax and interact with each other.

5. Include Generational Props: This is optional, but some items could be included in the setting or scene. These props can highlight the generational bond, such as heirlooms, family albums, or items with sentimental value.

Grandparents are the keepers of family history, the storytellers that can bridge a gap between the past and the present. Including them in your photoshoot can be a celebration of your family's heritage. Their presence adds depth to the narrative and our personal story. Their presence not only honors the past but also enriches the present, creating a continuum of love and belonging for future generations.

Growing a Photo Business…

Welcome to my blog!  I find joy and peace in capturing the real life and true essence of family life through the lens of authenticity and truth.

What is this blog about?  I will explore the beauty of candid moments.  I’ll share my own, how I’ve captured them for my clients and give advice and tips on how to get started on a storytelling adventure of your own.  I’ve been teaching high school photography at a school in Northern Virginia since 2015, and before that elementary art since 2003.

I want to share that you can create works of art and love for your children, family and most of all FOR YOURSELF using a camera.  How many of us got a new camera when our children were born? Then the craziness of motherhood got in the way of actually capturing it using that camera.  Well it is time to pick that camera up and not be afraid of it!  The best thing is  your work doesn’t have to be perfect.  Trust the process and you may surprise yourself by your own creativity. The camera can be therapy,  Art is therapy.    

There is something very special in preserving memories that reflect the real-life magic within our families.  It’s not always good, sometimes life seems boring but by slowing down to REALLY observe it helps us celebrate those little small victories of being a mom.  

Follow along as I go through the struggles of growing my business.  I’ve been working with AMAZING loyal clients for the past 11 years and they have stuck with me from the beginning.  Starting in January 2024 I decided it's time to refocus my efforts and grow this business to reach more people while still loving and working with my current families. Working toward a dream of making this a full time career when its time to exit the classroom.

Lesson Number 1:  Save your work!   I don’t love writing.  I’ll have typos in my posts, I can almost 100% guarantee this.  I started working directly into my blog account and my computer refreshed and I lost EVERYTHING I had worked on.   Now I’m drafting all my posts into Google Docs.  This will help with being able to create content ahead of time and schedule it to post.

Playground Candid Photoshoot- Images shot in full sun playing with shutter speed to create intentional blur.

This was a spontaneous shoot which usually end up being my favorite. One trick I try and do is use a prompt to challenge myself, and when we are out on an outing or doing something I think about the prompt or challenge. There are a lot of great groups online and through Facebook that can help with this. For this one my challenge was capturing motion.

This is where shooting in manual mode is crucial to learn. Manual is a mode on the camera body that allows the artist to control all the settings. This is DIFFERENT than manual focus. This is something that I see students often get confused about in the beginning. You can also shoot in manual focus by switching it on the lens itself, however I usually always use auto focus (AF)

For some of these images I slowed the shutter speed down enough to capture some of the blur that is created when people move through the frame of an image. To freeze motion and not have blue the shutter speed has to be fast!

The shutter is the part of the camera that opens and closes to allow light in to hit either the film or the camera sensor. Shutter speeds are fractions of a second. So 1/2000 is going to be VERY fast- and it will prevent a ton of light from coming into the camera. When using a DSLR going under 1/250 can start to be too low to freeze all motion and prevent blur when shooting children or fast moving things. 1” would be 1 second, BULB means that the shutter will remain open as long as you hold down the button you use to take the photo, you would need a tripod for this and most artists use this for things light night photography.

This is just a basic outline of what shutter speed can do. Keep following for more information on learning your camera and shooting in manual mode.