As a family photographer (and a mom myself), I know firsthand how quickly the years pass. One day they’re learning to crawl and before you know it, they’re picking out their own outfits and telling you how independent they are.


I’ve always love photography but when I became a mom that love amped up a level. I didn’t want to miss a single stage of my little ones as they grew up – the toothless grins, the messy hair, the gap-toothed smiles, the endless giggles. The list just goes on and on. Every year, our family makes a point to have family photos taken. But for those in between times of just because, I also make a point to set up a few self-timer photos to document our family outside of selfie mode on my phone.

Four people sit together on a bench against a navy blue wall with modern geometric paneling and white feather decor.

One of those times is New Year’s Eve! It started when we rang in 2020 because my daughter received a hand-me-down silver pleated dress that reminded me of a flapper. So we made a headband and did an impromptu photo shoot in front of our dining room accent wall. And the tradition was set. This year we decided to go fancy for a fun spin on our yearly new year portraits.

Baby in silver dress with yellow headband and teal flower sitting on gray carpet smiling at camera.

Whether or not you feel like getting in front of the camera yourself, I truly believe it’s so important to be a part of these memories. To your kids, you’re perfect exactly as you are – the person who loves them most, who tucks them in at night, who cheers them on, who makes everything okay. Don’t let worries about messy hair, busy schedules, or waiting for the “perfect time” keep you from capturing the magic that’s happening right now!

Two children sit on a blue velvet chair against a navy wall with decorative pampas grass and autumn floral accents.
A dressed up youngster in a burgundy vest and bow tie sits cheerfully on a navy velvet couch with decorative pampas grass nearby.
A young person in a pink feathered party dress sits on a blue velvet couch with white pampas grass decor.
Two young children in formal wear look down at a small glass jar they are holding together.

Maybe you’re not a professional photographer but you have a DSLR camera collecting dust in the back of the closet. Don’t let all those buttons intimidate you! It doesn’t take much to start capturing more of your everyday moments. So dust of that camera and use these quick tips to start capturing all your family moments in between your annual family photos.


The best place to start is using natural, indirect light. This means a window where the sunlight isn’t streaming in but rather giving soft, even light into the room. Clear the area of any clutter and let your kiddos play, dance, and simply have fun. If you’re trying to get off auto mode, start with setting your camera to shutter priority and choose a shutter speed of at least 1/250s so you can freeze their movement without ending up with blurry shots. As the 250 number gets lower, the shutter is slower creating those motion blur photos if you’re going for that look.

Indoor formal family portrait sitting together against a navy blue accent wall with white feather decor.
A child in a pink feathered dress sits on a navy blue velvet couch with white pampas grass decor nearby.
Someone in a burgundy top and gray pants lies relaxed on a blue velvet sofa against a navy blue wall.
Two young children in formal attire laugh while sitting together on a blue velvet couch with dried flowers in background.

I hate to say it but it’s true… They’re growing and changing every single day. Someday you’ll look back and realize these were the perfect moments all along. If it still seems daunting to capturing your own photos at home with a self-timer, I would be honored to help you create beautiful, joyful memories you’ll cherish forever! Get in touch today to schedule your family session and let’s make some magic together!

Family portrait in front of blue geometric wall with parents and two small children in formal attire.
Small child wearing a burgundy velvet vest with bow tie and white shirt sits on a navy blue tufted sofa.
A child in a pink dress sits on a dark teal velvet couch against a navy blue wall with modern decor.
A child in formal attire with burgundy vest and gray pants strikes a playful pose on a blue velvet couch.
Portrait photograph against a dark blue background showing someone seated on a couch wearing a blush pink formal dress.