So many of us only get our cameras out for special outings or holiday gatherings.  And while those are fun events to remember, the quiet evenings we’ve spent at home together are even more meaningful.  If you ask my own kids their favorite memories of their dad, wrestling in the family room, building up snow ramps on the hill for the sleds, or giant snow forts in the front yard are always mentioned first.  Sometimes the Disney World vacation doesn’t even come up.

So when Jess and I were talking about our vision for her family portrait session (see the rest of their photos here), I agreed to make a portrait in front of their blossoming cherry tree a priority because that is what she wanted out of the session.  But she was completely on board when I suggested photographing the activities they enjoy as a family when they are just hanging out at home.  I enjoyed myself immensely watching them climb trees together, cozy up in a big chair to read a story, build a railroad with Lincoln Logs, and even jump on the beds.  (Well, Mom and Dad just watched that part!)   Then to wrap it up, they sat around their kitchen table to pray before having a snack.

Lifestyle Photography Family Photo Challenge

It is a very unique privilege to photograph a family in their home.  Everyone is automatically more relaxed, surrounded by familiar things.  You can feel the love.  It is probably my very most favorite kind of session to photograph.

Maybe you can’t afford to hire a photographer to capture a day in your family’s life.  But that doesn’t mean your special everyday moments have to go undocumented.  Grab your camera!  Learn how to use the self-timer function.  And if you don’t have a tripod, set the camera on a sturdy table.   You know that Wii bowling tournament you’ve got planned for after dinner tonight?  You should totally have pictures of that!

I promise that in the years to come, your kids will love that photograph so much more than the posed shot on Main Street in front of Cinderella’s Castle.

I am entering this photo into the Family Fun photo challenge at I Heart Faces this week.  Be sure to click on the button below to view all the beautiful, silly, and super fun family photos.

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