People always tell me I’m photogenic — and I usually just laugh and say, “It must be the good lighting!” But after our most recent family photo session, I had a moment of realization: maybe it’s not about being photogenic at all — maybe it’s about feeling comfortable, confident, and connected in front of the camera.

As a family photographer in Kitchener-Waterloo, planning my own family photos is a whole other experience — one that makes me appreciate what my clients go through even more. From choosing outfits to keeping everyone smiling (yes, even the dog) to hoping the weather cooperates, it’s a mix of laughter, love, and a few perfectly imperfect moments. But it’s also such a beautiful reminder of what I get to create for others every day.

Because behind every gorgeous gallery is a blend of planning, patience, and heart. Our photo day reminded me just how much intention and preparation go into creating a session that truly feels good — and how much fun it can be when everything comes together.

Here’s a peek behind the scenes of how we planned, prepped, and turned our own family photography session into a memory that feels like us.

The Planning: Outfits Come First (and Yes, Mine Came First 😉)

Let’s be honest — picking outfits is always step one.

I started with my dress: soft creams and neutrals that felt timeless, flattering, and me. Once that was decided, the rest fell into place. We anchored the palette with navy, added one subtle pattern on Wyatt’s shirt to tie it all together, and voilà — instant coordination without looking too “matchy-matchy.”

Even Oliver (our furry family member) matched perfectly — because of course he did. 🐾

Here’s the fun part: our living room décor actually inspired the palette. With shades of white, light grey, gold, and navy, the final collection of family images will blend beautifully into our space — like they were always meant to be part of it.

If you’re planning your own family photos, here’s a little pro tip: think about where your photos will live. Choose colours that feel right at home in that space — whether it’s a soft neutral palette for your walls or pops of colour for a bright, playful room.

The Prep: A Little Effort Goes a Long Way

I made a full self-care day out of it — because why not?

Hair extensions for a little extra volume (and confidence), professional makeup for that polished, camera-ready glow, and a dress that made me feel both beautiful and comfortable.

Because here’s the truth: comfort = confidence. When you feel your best, it always shows on camera.

I remind my clients of this all the time — those little touches, that extra bit of prep, make a huge difference in how you feel during your session (and how you see yourself after).

And yes, I definitely put my own posing advice into practice — it’s something I teach my clients all the time. Little shifts in posture, angles, and movement can completely change the way the camera sees you. When you know your light, lean into your natural expressions, and relax into the moment — that’s when the magic happens.

Of course, I wasn’t the only one prepping for photo day — the rest of the crew had their roles to play too.

The Family: Everyone’s Role in the “Look Good, Feel Good” Mission

Chloe — effortlessly stylish and photogenic without even trying (that youthful glow we all envy).
Wyatt — still lets me pick his outfit and fix his hair. That’s a mom win if I’ve ever seen one.
Wes — followed directions, chose a neutral sweater, and even got his beard professionally trimmed. Gold star for him.
And Oliver — naturally, the scene-stealer.

Family photo day is always a team effort. When everyone feels comfortable, confident, and just a little bit silly — that’s when the photos tell your real story. And it shows when everyone’s relaxed and having fun.

The Session: Trusting Your Photographer and the Process

Big shoutout to my talented friend Michelle from Elle Chic Photography of Guelph for capturing us so beautifully.

As a photographer, it can be hard to hand over creative control — but Michelle made everyone feel comfortable and completely at ease. She guided us with gentle prompts, kept the energy light and fun, and allowed our personalities to shine through. Proof that when you trust your photographer, the magic happens.

After years of directing clients, it was refreshing to simply be in front of the camera — to laugh, connect, and soak in the experience with my family. It reminded me that the best photos aren’t about perfection; they’re about connection, emotion, and the joy that comes from being fully present with the people you love.

The Experience — Making It a Family Memory

We turned our photo session into an extended family event — my parents joined in, along with their dog, Charlie, and my niece’s family. It wasn’t just a photoshoot; it was a day filled with laughter, hugs, and little in-between moments I’ll treasure forever. Seeing everyone together reminded me how special it is to capture the laughter, love, and little connections that make us us.

And afterward, we all went out for dinner to celebrate — because when you’ve managed to get everyone together, at the same time, in the same place, and smiling, you absolutely deserve a nice meal out. It was the perfect way to end a day that already felt like a celebration of family.

The experience was a beautiful reminder that photo sessions can double as family bonding moments. They give you a reason to pause, slow down, and simply be together. These photos aren’t just for our walls; they’re part of our story — a memory we’ll look back on and say, “remember that day?”

The Takeaway — Seeing Yourself Through Someone Else’s Lens

When I saw the finished photos, I had that same thought again — maybe I really am photogenic.

But more than that, I saw myself the way my family sees me — happy, confident, surrounded by the people (and pup) I love most.

That’s what I want for every client who steps in front of my camera: to see yourself the way others see you. To look at your photos and think, “That’s me — and I love her.”

And once you have those images, don’t let them live on a screen. Print them. Frame them. Display them. Let those everyday reminders of love and connection live right where they belong — on your walls, in your hands, and in your home.

So yes, maybe I do look better in pictures — but that’s because the best photos don’t just capture what you look like. They show who you are.