When it comes to family photography, it’s all about capturing those genuine moments that truly feel like you. For Brittany and her family, their session in a beautiful open field in Rock Hill, SC, right outside of Charlotte NC that was definitely one to remember! From prepping for the session to styling her family and seeing the final images, Brittany shares her experience in this Q&A. Curious about what it’s like to book a session? Her story is the perfect place to start!
Before the Session
What inspired you to book your family session?
My 1st and only son recently turned one and as I looked back on the past 12 months I was so surprised about how fast it went.
As much as we would like to press pause on time, we cannot, but what we can do it capture moments. So we did just that. We book our family session to capture our lovely family of three (four including the pup) in this time and space so when my son turns 18 or gets married I can look back at photos of when he was just 12 months old.
How did you feel about the planning phase leading up to the session?
I was very pleased with Tonyas help and support leading up to our session. She created mood boards based off my original color scheme for each individual of the family and as far as going the extra mile to be sure everything fit once I had ordered new outfits.
The overall process was very unique and nothing I had ever experienced or expected. It felt very personal!
What were you hoping to capture or remember through this experience?
When I look back at these photos I want to remember how little my 12 month old was and his unique perspective on life. How his mind is a vessel and how curious he is about everything.
I also want to look back and see how we as a family looked at each other in this year. I want to be able to show future generations what the start of our family looked like.
During the Session
How did the session feel for you and your family?
The session feeling was very natural. My husband and I were both running around chasing my son which is a very normal thing in our household these days. My son would not sit still (not that we expected him to) but that is exactly how the session felt as well. Very Natural!
Were there any special or unexpected moments during your family session that stood out?
Our whole session was special to me! We as a family got to enjoy some quality time in an open field together and it was just simply put, nice!
But to put the cherry on top, as we were getting ready to leave a burst of wind started and the fall leaves began to fall of the trees in the near distance. Tonya of course was quick to guide us into the windy leaves and snap some of the best pictures of the session.
How did you feel working with me as your photographer?
Tonya took her time and did not rush our session. She reassured us she was here to support us and that she was on our time.
Tonya offered help in many ways from getting distractions for our son, to holding our puppy. She called each of us by name which to me is very honorable!
After the Session
How did you feel when you saw your photos for the first time?
I cried the first time I saw my photos and I still cry sometimes now looking back at them. I am filled with JOY each time I look at our photos.
There is one photo that when I look at it, it puts off “the true essences of motherhood” vibes. I am holding my son as if I were a mother of 3 or 4 children and had years of experience holding a child and we are both so calm and natural, it truly is the essences of motherhood.
What do these images mean to you and how do you plan to display them?
These photos have already been shared with our external family members on both sides of our family – everyone is in awe of them. Several of the photos will be put on our 2024 family Christmas card which goes out to more than 80 people.
I will be printing large canvas prints of my favs to put in our dining room above our dining room table. When we sit down to eat each meal I want us all to be reminded of the family unit and we each play a unique part of Gods creation on earth.
I also have a family photo album where these photos will live for our son to be able to look back on as well as future generations.
Would you recommend this experience to others? If so, why?
Yes, I would recommend any one of my friends to use Tonya! I have referred a few of my friends in the area to use her services.
As long as we live in the area I will continue to use Tonya for any future family photoshoots.
Let’s Capture Your Family’s Story!
I hope Brittany’s experience gives you a little peek into what a family photography session can be like and how special these memories are. I truly adored working with her and her family—it was such a joy to capture their moments. I’m so grateful she shared her experience with all of us!
As your photographer, I want to make these sessions not only easy to plan but also fun while you’re in the moment! If you’re ready to create your own experience, I’d love to be a part of it! Not sure where to have your session? Check out my guide choosing the perfect location to get some inspiration!
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