Capturing Real Connections

Why Family Photos Are Always Worth It

As we step into a new year, it’s a natural time to think about what truly matters. While I’ve never been great at sticking to New Year’s resolutions, January feels like the perfect opportunity to reflect on what we value most. For many of us, that means focusing on the people we love and the relationships that bring joy to our lives.

Family photos are always worth it because they capture those connections in a way nothing else can. Whether you’re here in Auckland or elsewhere, these images become timeless reminders of your family’s story. They freeze moments of laughter, tenderness, and joy—moments that might otherwise slip away in the busyness of everyday life. Most importantly, they let you celebrate the people who matter most in a fun, meaningful way.

Time Flies, but Photos Hold It Still

Time has a way of slipping through our fingers, doesn’t it? The older I get, the faster it seems to move. I look at my own children and can’t believe how much they’ve grown and changed in just the past year. I’m endlessly grateful that they still let me photograph them—though, I’ll admit, it takes some convincing these days!

Those photos mean everything to me because they let me hold onto each of their unique stages, even as they move on to the next. I truly believe capturing these moments should be a priority for every family. Life moves quickly, and while we can’t slow it down, we can make sure we don’t lose those precious memories along the way. Through photos, we get to pause time and keep a little piece of each stage to treasure forever.

How Family Photos Bring Us Closer

OK, hear me out—if you’ve ever tried to suggest a family photo session to your partner and gotten "that look," you might be skeptical. But here’s the thing: you’ve probably never had a session with me! From the very start, I make sure the prep is simple, stress-free, and laid out step-by-step so you’ll know exactly what to expect.

A session with me isn’t just about the photos; it’s about taking a break from the chaos of daily life and spending uninterrupted time together as a family. Sure, everyone feels a bit awkward at the beginning, but trust me, that’s where the magic starts. Those little moments of awkwardness often turn into shared giggles, and before you know it, everyone’s relaxed and having fun.

Your kids will absolutely love the chance to play, laugh, and get all your attention. It’s all about loving, cuddling, and connecting—no distractions, no to-do lists, just pure family time. And that’s what makes these sessions so special. It’s not just about taking photos; it’s about bringing your family closer together.

Creating Memories That Outlast the Moments

Each stage our kids go through feels fleeting. One moment it’s endless eye rolls from my oldest, and the next it’s “I do it myself!” from my fiercely independent toddler. These phases might feel all-consuming now, but they pass in the blink of an eye. That’s why photos matter so much—they don’t just capture how life looks right now; they create memories that will mean everything years from now.

Family photos become a part of your family’s history. They’re not just pictures; they’re memory triggers—like the chubby thighs that eventually run away to school or the perfect baby curls that transform into a cheeky mullet (my boy’s current style!). These little details might fade from our minds, but photos hold them forever.

What’s more, kids thrive when they grow up surrounded by family photos. Studies show that seeing themselves displayed at home boosts their sense of belonging and self-esteem. Psychologists agree that these visual reminders help children feel valued, loved, and secure—proof that they’re an important part of the family story.

The Magic of Unposed Moments

My approach to photography is all about keeping things relaxed and authentic. Overly posed, stiff, and curated images just don’t resonate with me—they’re not how I want to remember my family, and I doubt they’re how you want to remember yours. Forced smiles and perfect angles can’t compete with a messy photo full of genuine laughter that you can almost hear ringing in your ears.

This unposed approach is what makes your session fun and helps you and your family genuinely enjoy your time in front of the camera. It’s about jokes, cuddles, and the kind of laughter that makes your cheeks hurt. While today’s phones have amazing cameras (and believe me, I’m forever grateful for that when capturing the everyday chaos in my own home), there are moments that deserve more.

Sometimes, it’s about capturing everyone—yes, even the photo-taking parent who’s usually behind the camera. It’s about seeing your whole family together, the love between you and your partner, and the way your kids look at you. Those moments, full of connection and love, are worth every penny of your investment. Because in the end, it’s not just a photo—it’s a window into the story of your family.

The Secret to Meaningful Family Photos

Family photos are so much more than just snapshots—they’re a way to pause time and hold onto the love, connection, and unique quirks that make your family, yours. They tell the story of your family’s journey, capturing the little moments and the big emotions that you’ll treasure for years to come. From the belly laughs to the quiet cuddles, these photos remind us of what’s most important: the people we share our lives with.

And choosing the right photographer is just as important as deciding to have family photos taken. That’s why I always love to jump on a quick call or even grab a coffee before your session. I get it—trust me, I have the millennial aversion to phone calls too—but it’s such an important step. You need to feel comfortable and confident that I can create the kind of relaxed, authentic moments that reflect your family’s story perfectly.

My books for 2025 are officially open, and I’d love to help you capture your family’s moments. Click here to enquire about how we can make this happen for you and your family. Let’s create something special together!