For this in-home lifestyle family session, I got to escape the Austin summer heat and visit dear friends in Maine! I’ve known Emily since we were teenagers studying photography side by side at the University of Maine. Drawn to each other’s thrifted outfits and shared artistic interests, we became fast friends. Now, we each run our own wedding and family photography businesses, mine in Austin and Emily’s in Maine.

This is the second time I’ve had the privilege of capturing Emily, her husband Matt, and their two kiddos. The first was also an in-home session, and it was so fun to return to their historic lodge in the Maine countryside. Plus, Em and Matt just celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary, so it was the perfect occasion to celebrate with photos! Over two hours, I shot mostly on 35mm film as the family spent time in their garden, read books, and snuggled their pet bunny.

A Laid-Back In-Home Lifestyle Family Session

Before this session, Emily and I discussed what her dream family photos looked like. This was so helpful because it allowed me to tune into what mattered most to her. She envisioned pictures of the kids in their rooms, their interactions with her and Matt, and a mix of candid and editorial shots. Most importantly, the images had to feel living and perfectly imperfect, a time capsule of this season of their lives.

We began inside their home, focusing on the kids’ bedrooms. These spaces rarely receive focus during in-home sessions, but they should! So much life happens here, and so much change. We created plenty of space for the kids to do what they love, reading books with their parents and swinging from the ceiling hammock. Starting the shoot this way also allowed the kids to acclimate to the camera as I asked questions and got to know them.

Then, we ventured outside to the property full of lush summer greenery. We captured some editorial-style portraits in the garden area before bringing the family’s beloved pet bunny and chickens into the mix! After those shots, I really wanted to refocus on candid moments. Luckily, I was staying with them and could capture the kiddos casually hanging out around the dinner table with their parents. Laid-back, unposed photos will always be my favorite.

Austin Family Photography on Film

Reconnecting with Em and Matt, spending time on their property, and capturing their in-home lifestyle family session were true highlights of my summer! This session felt magical precisely because it felt just like regular life. I loved that the family wore their everyday clothes and communicated such a clear vision beforehand.

I also loved that we prioritized 35mm film photographs. Lately, I’ve been wanting to capture lifestyle sessions like this one purely on film. So, if you’re in Austin and that interests you, please reach out! I would love to hear what you have in mind and partner with you to create something that feels authentic to your family.