What is a storytelling photographer?
When it comes to photography, there are many styles to choose from, each offering its own unique approach to capturing memories. Two popular styles are storytelling photography and portrait photography. While traditional portrait photography focuses on posed and polished images, storytelling photography dives deeper, capturing the essence of real-life moments and experiences. As a storytelling photographer, I believe that this approach creates more engaging, authentic, and meaningful photos, especially for families and children.
Take for example the photos from a shoot I did in a family's backyard. They have a small farm where they sell chicken tractors and flowers. This is where their family spends most of their time, where they make memories, what their kids will remember most about their childhood when they grow up.
The Essence of Storytelling Photography
Storytelling photography is all about capturing genuine moments as they unfold. Rather than positioning subjects in still positions, I aim to create experiences where authentic moments can happen naturally. This is not to say that you won't end up with posed photos in your gallery, I always try to get a few. But, I will focus on candid photos that show the true connection of you and your family first.
How I plan for candid moments
While candid means "informal", it doesn't mean you can skip the planning process! Quite the opposite. In order to get those candid photos you love, you need a plan, especially when little kiddos are involved.
When booking you answer a series of questions that help us to plan for your session. You may already have an idea in mind, half an idea, or no idea at all. All levels are fine, and you explain them in the questionnaire. I also ask you some deeper questions such as "if your kids were to plan a fun activity for the family, what would they choose?" and "what is a core memory you had as a child?". These questions help me brainstorm unique ideas for your shoot. I follow up with you with a few ideas and we discuss options for your shoot. At the end of the day, it's always up to you what we do, but I am here for support.
Turning a Photoshoot into an Experience
There are countless ways to turn a photoshoot into an experience that tells your story. My best advice is to think of the activities you love to do as a family such as hanging out in the backyard, going for ice cream, biking at the local park, it doesn't have to be complicated. As a storytelling photographer, my goal is to help you create and capture these experiences, resulting in a photo gallery that tells your unique story.
Why Storytelling Photography is More Engaging for Kids
Kids are naturally curious and full of energy. Asking them to sit still for a traditional portrait can sometimes be challenging, resulting in forced smiles and awkward poses. Storytelling photography, on the other hand, allows children to be themselves, engaging in activities they love, and capture those core memories that they'll look back on someday and say "this is how I remember my childhood". Here are some examples:
- A Picnic on the Beach: Imagine a photo gallery that tells the story of a sunny day at the beach, with your kids making sandcastles, laughing as waves lap at their feet, and sharing a picnic. These candid moments capture the joy and freedom of childhood.
- Hopscotch and Bike Riding: Picture your children playing hopscotch in the driveway while your youngest learns to ride a bike. These action shots capture their determination, excitement, and the pride on their faces when they succeed.
- A Maternity Shoot with a Personal Touch: Instead of a studio backdrop, envision a maternity shoot where you take a stroll to the place where you had your first date. This setting adds a personal touch, making the photos not only beautiful but also deeply meaningful.
- Backyard Movie Night: Capture the magic of a backyard movie night with popcorn and cozy blankets. The photos will reflect the warmth and togetherness of your family, creating memories you'll treasure for years to come.
- Baking Grandma's Cookie Recipe: Document the joy of baking in the kitchen, using your grandma's cherished cookie recipe. The smiles, flour-dusted faces, and shared laughter create a heartwarming story that's uniquely yours
want to brainstorm ideas?
I am always open to chatting about ideas for the perfect & unique photoshoot. Reach out by clicking here and we can start discussing options to capture those sweet core memories.
Want more inspo? check out this family shoot at a cozy coffee shop
