Golden Hour on the Shenandoah
A Dreamy, Family Centered Photo Session in Boyce, VA
There is something about slowing down that lets the magic sneak in. This relaxed documentary family photo session along the Shenandoah River was the perfect reminder of how beautiful that can be.
We kicked things off in the chicken coop- literally. The kids were chasing chickens, and the family dog, laughing and immediately showing of their personalities. After a little bit of excitement (and feathers), we moved to some more traditional posed family photos to help everyone ease into the session. It’s always nice to get a few of those early on, for grandmas wall.
I like to keep posing light and easy, just enough to create some lovely moments without it feeling forced. Most of my sessions are candid, focused on capturing genuine interaction, play and connection. This balance helps kids feel comfortable and lets their true personalities shine through.
The family dog was the best! She helped creating some wild moments which I feel are always completely essential. She ran in and out of the frame, soaked in the river, and helped everyone relax. By the time we walked down to the bluebells which were AMAZING, the session had turned into pure play. Unposed, natural family photography at its best.
We didn’t rush, we let the kids lead. They splashed, ran, filled their boots with water (then dumped them out for a fun photo opportunity), and got totally into it. And honestly? That is exactly what I want. Real personalities, real stories, real memories. By the end the kids weren’t just part of the session, they were directing it. Finding spots for photos on the tree swing and with the family cow Ben and Jerry. The session was totally perfect.
These are the kind of sessions I live for. Calm, playful, unhurried. Full of laughter, dirt, connection and most importantly, real moments. It’s not about the “perfect” posed photo. It’s about the ones that show true connection and life.
Family Photography in Shenandoah Valley
& Northern Virginia
If you’re looking for a documentary style family photographer in the Shenandoah Valley, I’d love to help tell your family’s story- one real, joy filled moment at a time. I serve families in Fauquier County and the surrounding counties, including Northern Virginia. Let’s plan a session that feels like you!
FAQ: Documentary Family Sessions in Shenandoah
What is a documentary family photo session?
It’s a relaxed, unposed style of photography that focuses on real moments, connections and personality. Everyone can be themselves, messes and chaos are embraced. In a true documentary session nothing is posed. Most of my sessions are a hybrid between “lifestyle” and documentary. We have some light posing and prompts but other than that we play and let the session dictate what happens.
What should I expect when booking a family session?
After we have decided on a location and time, we will spend about an hour exploring. I usually try and find a location that offers a loop we can walk. This allows for a variety of backgrounds and movements. No rushing and no pressure.
How much posing is involved?
I like to keep posing light and easy. Just enough to help create some beautiful moments without it feeling forced. I often will shoot through a prompt in order to capture the real emotion after the posed shot is taken. These are often the best shots. Most of the session is candid, focused on capturing genuine interaction and play.
Do you photograph in-home family sessions too?
ABSOLUTLEY! I offer in-home style family and newborn sessions throughout Northern Virginia, Fauquier, Culpepper and Clarke County. These sessions are perfect for capturing quiet (and wild) everyday moments that matter.