As a toddler mom, I know exactly what you're thinking when I suggest a 7:30 or even 8:00 p.m. session. Because I think it, too, when making any plans. "That's bedtime." Believe me when I say that I get it. We've worked hard as mothers to build routines because they matter. A well-rested child usually means a happier child, and no one wants to intentionally throw off bedtime. So why would I ever recommend doing just that? Because the soft, golden hour lighting will give you wa

Best Family Photo Locations in Portland for Young Children

Let me start by saying that I normally don't photograph couples. I used to but now primarily focus on the motherhood experience - maternity, newborn, breastfeeding, and family sessions. But when my long-time friend, Wendy, from Oklahoma messaged me saying she was eloping with her fiance in the Portland area and they wanted me to be their photographer in the Columbia River Gorge next to a waterfall, how could I refuse? I immediately said um. YES PLEASE! And on we went! We star

If you've ever thought, "We'll book family photos when my toddler is a little easier," I get it. Because I'm right there with you. I'm a toddler mom, too, and my days are filled with constant snack negotiations, chasing her around and wondering where she got her endless energy from because it wasn't from me or her dad lol, and wondering how someone so small can cause such destruction in just two minutes! So when parents tell me they're nervous their toddler won't cooperate du

How to Find the Right Family Photographer in Portland for Your Family

As a family photographer I hear this concern a lot from parents. In fact, besides the #1 question, "What do I wear?" - worrying about what will happen if your kids don't behave is a close second, and honestly, I was concerned about that myself when I booked a family photographer for my own family. What If My Toddler Doesn't Get Their Usual Nap? I must warn you - what will probably happen the day of your photoshoot will be the first day your toddler skips their nap in a long w

With 22mph winds and only 61 degrees, this family remained adventurous and easy-going during their Columbia River Gorge session. Dad brought a guitar and honestly, it changed the set the whole vibe of the shoot for the better when he started playing. Both parents sang and hummed and it was absolutely magical among the wildflowers at sunset. This shoot is the perfect example of why I encourage all families to simply go with the flow, not just during the photo session, but prep

If you’re looking for a Portland family photographer but want something that feels a little more wild, a little more open, the Columbia River Gorge always delivers. This session took place near Beacon Rock, just about an hour outside of Portland, and it’s one of those locations that makes everything feel a bit slower. The kind of place where kids can roam, parents can breathe, and nothing needs to be overly posed to feel meaningful. A More Natural Approach to Family Photos Du

A Winter-ish Portland Family Photography Session I LOVE when families want their Portland family photography session during the off season. Why? Because it's not as busy, there's more room for flexibility if weather gets out of hand, and sunset is earlier so parents don't have to adjust bedtimes for that soft golden light. Plus, your family can snuggle up in a warm blanket or scarves and it's a great and easy excuse to get close to each other and cuddle for photos! This day,

One of the first questions families ask when planning a session is: “I have young kids who need to get to bed early. What’s the best time of year for family photos?" The honest answer? Each season offers its pros and cons to consider: not just your children's ages and bedtimes but the weather (is it predictable that time of year?) crowds (summer weekends on the beach mean a lot of people), scenery (hello spring wildflowers!) and other considerations are at play when determini