Why Now Is the Perfect Time for Family Photos
Chevy Chase Family Photographer | Natural, Relaxed Family Photo Sessions
If you’re searching for a Chevy Chase family photographer, you’re probably thinking it’s been a while since you’ve updated family photos! If you’re looking for a photographer that captures your family in a relaxed and laid-back way, we’d be a great match!
I work with families throughout Maryland including areas such as Chevy Chase, Bethesda, Silver Spring, as well as the greater Washington, DC area. This blog post is here to remind you that now is the perfect time for family photos!
Why Now Is the Perfect Time for Family Photos
As a Chevy Chase family photographer, I have heard a few different reasons that families don’t prioritize the right now for booking family photos. Maybe schedules are super busy, maybe the weather isn’t the best, or maybe we don’t feel great about the way our clothes fit.
But here’s a little secret - none of this matters a few years from now! Life doesn’t slow down, so schedule the photo session!
The kids are changing faster than we can keep up with. Those silly faces, missing teeth, squeezy hugs, and toddlers wanting to hold our hands won’t look the same next year. The beauty of using a lifestyle approach to family photography is that we are capturing who your family is right now, before the next stage comes and goes.
When you look back at your images, I want you to feel what this season of life felt like- the laughter, the chaos, and the connection.
Family Photos That Capture This Season of Life
During your session I do pose and guide some connection. We also do take some traditional posed family photos. Once we get those out of the way we can focus on the non- perfectly posed photos. The photos where your kids are giggling, holding your hand, leaning into you, or being completely themselves.
I want you to have photos of those in-between moments and the real smiles, and the natural interactions of your family.
When you look back on your photos a few years from now, you’ll remember how this moment felt, and you won’t be worried about your outfit choices or if everyone was perfectly still and smiling at the camera.
You Don’t Need Perfect Timing or Perfect Outfits
If you have small kids you’re likely juggling work, school, kids activities, and that never ending to-do list. Please don’t wait for life to calm down, just schedule the family session! You don’t need perfectly matching outfits, or perfectly behaved kids, or a perfectly calm schedule.
When you show up to your family photo session I’ll guide your family in a natural way so that you forget about all of the other things and you can just focus on your family.
A Relaxed Family Photography Experience in Chevy Chase
Choosing the right photographer makes all the difference. My sessions are laidback, playful, and designed to feel easy from start to finish.
We’ll laugh, explore, and I’ll gently guide you the whole way so you never feel awkward or unsure of what to do.
At times families tell me that maybe they’ve never had photos taken, or that their toddler won’t sit still for photos, or that they hide when they see the camera. I have a lot of experience working with young children (and I have a child of my own) so I’ll always try and gain your child’s trust to make sure they’re comfortable and relaxed.
My goal as your photographer is to create an experience where your photos reflect genuine connection and joy.
Serving Families in Chevy Chase and the DC Area
I photograph families across the DC area, including Chevy Chase, Bethesda, Silver Spring, and nearby neighborhoods. Whether you prefer a scenic park, an urban setting, a playground, or a quiet neighborhood location, we’ll choose a spot that feels natural and meaningful for your family.
Let’s Make It Happen!
There will never be a perfectly convenient time. Life will always be busy, kids will always be growing, and the days will continue moving quickly.
But that’s exactly why family photos matter.
Your family is changing every day, let’s celebrate this season while you’re in it.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I book a Chevy Chase family photo session?
Most families book 1–3 months in advance, especially for popular spring and fall dates.
Where do family photo sessions take place?
Sessions can take place in local parks, neighborhood spots, or scenic locations throughout Chevy Chase and nearby areas.
What should we wear for family photos?
I provide a styling guide to help you choose outfits that feel natural, comfortable, and photograph beautifully together.
What if my kids don’t cooperate?
That’s completely normal, and expected! My sessions are designed to be playful and relaxed so kids can be themselves.
Ready to book your Chevy Chase family photo session?
If it sounds like you’re looking for a laid back photo experience where your kids can be kids and we are focused on connection, reach out!
Day in the life detail moments with a toddler
If you have a toddler you know it’s definitely not easy but it is rewarding. They transition from babies into this little young child with their own personality and desire to do what they want when they want. Is this sounding right?
I wanted to do something a little different on today’s blog post. I typically share images from family sessions but this time around I wanted to share something a little more personal to me. Time is precious. Yes, cliche, but precious nonetheless. I make a goal of taking out my camera once a month to photograph our daughter with whatever milestone/day/event/holiday that comes to mind for that month. These photos are from a trip we took in the fall and looking back on them brought me all the feels.
I’m a lifestyle family and newborn photographer and I love moments like this.
Here are some images of detail moments of daily life with my toddler that I don’t want to forget:
snacktime & independence
man oh man are we in the “I do it!!!” phase. I love her little hands with some of her favorite go to snacks- pouches and fruit cups!
showing emotions
she’s been furrowing her brows since she was a baby and I hope she never stops. Not only this emotion, but a toddler shows a wiiiiide range of emotions, sometimes several within a few minutes.
onesies, stained pajamas
We are finally at a point where we aren’t having to buy clothing so often and she can wear the same pajama set for several months. Along with that comes dirt and stains. But I’m such a sucker for my toddler in footed pajamas. It makes me feel like she’s still a little baby!!
playing & hide and seek
She’s not *really allowed to play in this tv stand but I felt like it would be appropriate to entertain the hide and seek for a quick little game. She’s so into it right now and we have fun!
loveys
Loveys! She likes to take a different one to school each day. At night she sleeps with at least 5-7 of them. I absolutely love this. My mom told me that when my brother and I were little we weren’t attached to any lovey’s or blankets and for a while our daughter wasn’t either. Now, she will tell us which one she wants and she has an attachment to the idea of the lovey and taking it with her to school and sleep.
following their lead
Toddlers truly have a mind of their own. I like to follow her lead for what she wants to do (within reason). After all, she’s 2 years old! It’s so much fun seeing her brain, language, and social skills develop and I think it’s important that I’m not always the one with the agenda. Sometimes she just needs to be able to run around outside looking at flowers or playing chase, other times I guess she needs to play in the blinds with her friend?
Thanks so much for being here and I hope this blog post makes you feel more comfortable and relatable to me! I love getting to know the families I photograph. I love when they trust me to capture their family and more importantly when they come back year after year and tell their friends about me. Happy February!
Atlanta Family Photographer | Natural and Relaxed Lifestyle Sessions
I’m so glad you’re here! If you’ve been searching for an Atlanta family photographer and want photos that feel natural, easy, and actually enjoyable then you’re in the right place!
Relaxed lifestyle family sessions in Atlanta for laid-back families
I photograph families in a relaxed, joy-filled way so you get genuine connection, real moments, and images that reflect your family as you are right now. I won’t pose your family in awkward positions that don’t feel like you. And I won’t force you or your kids to smile at the camera or be anything other than yourselves!
Related blog posts:
Meet Your Atlanta Family Photographer
Hi, I’m Tabitha!
I’m a family photographer and a mom, which means I understand how quickly these seasons change and how fast these kids grow. I’m so passionate about making these experiences meaningful and creating ways to hold onto these moments for just a little bit longer.
I’m based in the Washington, DC area but I travel to Atlanta throughout the year to photograph families, and each time I’m there I open up a limited number of session dates.
I’m drawn to the moments that might feel slightly chaotic but are connected and true to you.
My goal as your photographer is to create a fun space where your family can relax, be yourselves, and actually enjoy your time together!
When you feel comfortable, that’s where the magic happens and where we get those beautiful photos of your family!
What Is Lifestyle Family Photography?
Lifestyle family photography is all about capturing your real life and not a perfectly posed version of it. I move a lot during the sessions in order to capture your family doing your thing, and capturing the little moments of your toddler reaching to be picked up, the silly faces and laughs, the games, and your family being with each other.
These family photo sessions are designed to feel natural and unforced, whether we’re at your home or exploring one of my favorite Atlanta family photo locations.
Some examples of what your family can do during your session can include playing outside together and looking at the flowers, drawing chalk and making art in your driveway, snuggling on the couch reading a book, or just letting your kids be kids.
A Relaxed Approach to Family Photography
As a lifestyle family photographer in Atlanta, I use a simple approach and follow the energy of your family. I’ll guide moments or activities from time to time while using the light in a helpful way. When you’re having a natural moment I’ll step back and allow the moment to unfold.
I won’t ask you to stand still and smile at the camera the whole time. Instead, I’ll gently prompt you into connection and movement so your photos feel like real moments and show engagement and that you’re having fun with each other, because you will!
You don’t need to worry about:
what to do with your hands
whether your kids will cooperate
or getting everything “just right”
Your only job is to show up and be with your family and I’ll take care of the rest!
What to Expect From Your Atlanta Family Photo Session
Every session is a little different based on things such as family dynamics, session location, ages of children, but here’s a loose guide about what you can expect when I’m photographing you. We will start slow so everyone can ease in and get comfortable. We will follow your kids’ energy, and this will help gain their trust. We build in some space for movement and connection. If your child is full of energy, it will be reflected in the photos! If your child prefers to be in your arms and is a little shy, that’s okay too - we will spend your session time capturing those moments of your family naturally. Soon after your session you’ll have a gallery full of natural images that feel like your family.
Best Atlanta Locations for Family Photos
Location plays a big role in the feel of your session. I’ll help you choose a spot that fits your family’s vibe and how you want your photos to look and feel.
Some favorite options for a family photo session include:
Piedmont Park – there is open space, beautiful foliage and texture, and is perfect for movement
Cator Woolford Gardens – the space is small, quiet, and full of greenery
In-home sessions – these are relaxed, personal, and meaningful and take place right at your home
Winn Park - a lovely hidden gem of a park with a beautiful garden and water
Ponce City Market - an urban location filled with color and texture
Related: See more Atlanta family photo location blog posts
Who These Sessions Are For
These sessions are perfect for families who:
want candid, natural family photos
prefer a relaxed and low pressure experience
don’t love overly posed images
value connection over perfection
If that sounds like your family, you’re in the right place!
Want Helpful Tips Before Your Session?
If you’re still in the early planning stage, I welcome you to join my VIP email community. You’ll occasionally receive emails and updates with helpful tips for what to wear, how to prep your kids, and how to keep your session feeling easy and stress-free. You’ll also be the first to know when Atlanta session dates open!
Inquire About Your Atlanta Family Photography Session
If you’re ready for photos that feel natural, connected, and true to your family, I’d love to work with you!
I travel to Atlanta for a limited number of sessions throughout the year, and dates tend to fill quickly.
Fill out the form below and I’ll be in touch with upcoming availability and next steps.
What Happens Next
I’ll respond within 24–48 hours
We’ll choose a date during my next Atlanta trip
I’ll guide you through everything leading up to your session
{kaleb} | kaleb turns one | marietta lifestyle family photographer
They say time flies when you're having fun, and I assure you, Kaleb had so much fun turning one! I was excited to document his first birthday party, because ya only turn one once!
He's such a lucky little guy to have so many family members around him. From getting help looking like a cutie wearing a bow tie, to getting help opening presents, and then eating birthday cake outside, it was sure of a day!
If you'd like to enjoy your child's special day, allow me to take the pressure off and help to document the birthday! Head on over to my contact page or check out the family gallery here!
{carrion family} | christmas fun | dallas family photography
Although we aren't technically family, I enjoy every bit of the time I get to spend with my best friend's family. They take me in as their own, and I get to play with the two silliest, smartest, cutest little girls (okay I might be a little biased) a couple times a year. I have watched these girls grow over the years and I enjoy the time I get to see them. I bring along my camera to document the activities and silly games because it's always a treat to look back on them even just a few months later to see how much they've grown!
We began our day outside as the girls showed me their new Christmas gifts. They were so excited to show off their new clothes and their new bikes. Don't they just look so cute? We spent a little time inside to take a break to color, and then ended up going back outside in the backyard. They live in a small town north of Atlanta and they have so much land on their property. Living in the city you wouldn't get as much land as they would, so we definitely take advantage between having the bonfire going, the 4-wheeler rides, and letting the dogs run free. The backyard was such a wooded dream! The family stayed warm between having the bonfire going and staying warm with snuggles.
What I love about lifestyle sessions is the ability for the family to carry on the way they would as if I wasn't there. I just happen to be at the right place with my camera, ready to click! With two fast-moving little girls they definitely keep me on my feet and I love the way the photos tell the story. They are used to getting their photos taken but I still sometimes try to be sneaky so I can capture the genuine expression and emotions when they are playing.
Check out the blog for other recent sessions such as this Newborn Session and this lifestyle session at Ponce City Market in Atlanta!
