Is There Really Such Thing as a "Perfect Shot"?
When people ask me what type of photography I do, I like to say that I document the real moments happening around me.
This goes for my family shoots too. I LOVE candids. I love capturing the unplanned. Yes, I do still give direction. I ask people to pose or stand a certain way. I ask them to tickle, hug, kiss, snort, yell funny phrases…Whatever it takes to foster an environment that allows for some real life magic to happen. Often that means taking our time. Some kiddos need a little time to warm up to me or this weird photoshoot thing we’re doing. I also encourage the parents to just play with their kids. They don’t always have to look at the camera. They can just be their beautiful selves fully enjoying this moment with their children.
If there’s stress about getting the “perfect shot” then that shot will literally never happen. Kids can feel your stress. And sometimes, photoshoots just don’t go according to plan. A kid is having a bad day. Feeling shy. Fussy. Tummy ache. It all happens. I just do my best to make them smile in a natural and authentic way. I have fun with it, and I go with the flow. Sometimes the best shots aren’t even the big happy smiles, they can be the curious glances, or the serious, deep-in-thought stares.
On a recent shoot with my good friend, Sheila and her family, we decided to shoot in the kid’s play room. She wanted to capture how they are in the space she sees them most these days. Years from now, when she looks back on these photos she’ll remember exactly what it was like to be there. Watching as her girls play together. Grow together. Learn together. Serve each other tacos from the taco truck. And accidentally fall over the toy blocks. Cry for a minute. Then forget it happened and pick up another toy to munch on or imagine with.
These amazing years are not cookie cutter years that fit into a neat, clean frame. But they’re perfect in the eyes of those who see the love and beauty of this time. And I’m thankful to be here to capture it :)
