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: Northern Virginia Photo Sessions for Real Families

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 and maybe about to lose your mind.  And yet, amidst the chaos, there are these tiny moments that make life so precious—your child’s messy hair, that infectious laugh, the way your family hugs after a long day.

These are the moments I love to capture—moments that are perfectly imperfect. If you're looking for a photography experience that goes beyond just a posed family photo and dives into the real, authentic essence of your family, I think you’ll love what I offer.

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 shows.

I’m a big believer in capturing these authentic moments because they are what make your family unique. And even though those 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.

We’ll still take a few posed family portraits that you’ll want to print and hang on your walls. These are the photos where everyone’s looking their best, and you get that beautiful, cohesive family shot. But even then, I encourage a little movement, a little wiggle, a little life in the photo. A little silly sometimes, always fun. 

The goal is to make sure that, even in those posed shots, your family still feels like you. I know how important it is for you to look good, but I also want you to feel comfortable and authentic. We can work together to find a style for your family that is coordinated but still feels like you.  I’m all about creating a natural, effortless vibe, where you feel like yourselves—just a little more polished! Styling tips can be found 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

I’ve sessions to give you a variety of looks—some natural and free, some posed and polished—but all of them reflecting the love and connection that make your family special. Whether we’re chasing after your little ones or creating a peaceful moment of stillness, you’ll have a gallery of 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.