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

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

A Portland Family Photographer retreat at the Oregon Coast.

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

How often should I get professional photos of my family?