I have to start by pointing out what an amazing job this mama did at selecting and coordinating outfits! My absolute favorite style of photography is “light and airy” which affects every choice I make artistically including the location, lighting, backgrounds, and editing. The final piece of the puzzle is the client’s outfit choices! I always recommend soft neutrals such as cream, white, light blues, khaki, soft pinks, light grey, etc. I just love the way they make the images look fresh, clean and bright!

Secondly I want to take a moment to talk about lighting! Before I started my photography journey I had no idea that the time of day matters so much when taking portraits. The best time is the final hour or two before the sun sets. It allows you to get images like these! Glowy, dreamy sunset light is so much more flattering than harsh mid-day light. The other option is sunrise but I have yet to have a client request that time! haha.

I so appreciated this sweet family meeting me during this “golden hour” even though it meant keeping their little ones up a bit past bedtime (we started the session at 6:30). It is definitely worth one late night out to get this kind of light! The other option for families with small children is to schedule family portraits during the fall when the sun sets earlier in the evening.

This beautiful family of five has been such a blessing to me and my family. We have attended the same church and life group for years and have gone through a lot together! It has been so fun to see their family grow and to be a witness to God’s faithfulness in their lives. Ben and Rachel have been such a source of encouragement, laughter and wonderful friendship over the years. I was so honored when Rachel asked me to photograph their family!!!

If you loved this post, check out THIS ONE!!!