Why Candid Photos Often Become Your Favorites

There is something about a perfectly posed family portrait that will always have a place in your home. You know, the one with the whole family looking at the camera smiling that grandma wants framed on her wall. We will absolutely get that picture for you; however, I often find that it’s the candid photos that become your favorites. Capturing moments as they are unfolding end up being the ones you want to remember most, like a little one laughing, the eldest sibling leaning down to kiss a younger sibling, or tiny expressions and interactions that you didn’t even realize were happening. It is these unplanned, real moments that tell the story of your family.

Childhood Doesn’t Look Perfect, So Why Should Photos?

Let’s be honest, childhood is messy. Things typically don’t go as planned when you have littles. When photographing a family with young children or a newborn, I expect unpredictable moments, chaos, and fun! The moments that we let unfold are always the best ones. Why should we try so hard to make your family photos look completely different from the life you’re actually living? Not to mention the real giggles are so much better than the forced, “okay everyone look at each other and laugh” prompts. Those sweet belly laugh moments often happen out of nowhere. Dad might have whispered something silly, or a sibling made a funny face, whatever the reason, the result is always the same – the most genuine, sweet, memorable images.

When I’m photographing an in-home lifestyle session, I give you ideas and then let your family do what your family naturally does. Sometimes that looks like snuggling on the couch, reading a book, or letting the kiddos enjoy a popsicle. While I’ll still get the classic family photo of everyone looking and smiling, after that, I like to be a fly on the wall and capture the magic as it happens.

This family was such a perfect example of why I love candid photography so much. Their sweet New Braunfels, TX in-home newborn session was relaxed and full of candid interactions that made their gallery such a treat to view. Their home was absolutely gorgeous, and we had plenty of beautiful spaces to work with. We captured family portraits at the grand front entrance, and then we moved into the cozy living room where we could slow down and let everyone settle in.

A New Braunfels In-Home Newborn Session Full of Connection

As this beautiful family of five snuggled up on their own couch for their session we captured the most adorable portraits. Big brother was full of giggles and smiles as dad lifted him up and let him sit on his shoulders. Big sister was there to hold and love on her newborn sister. Later she also watched over her toddler little brother while I captured portraits of mom and dad with their newest bundle of joy. Glancing over and seeing her giving him a popsicle was so sweet! You could just tell by all these little interactions how much she loves her siblings.

This is one of the biggest reasons I love in-home photography. Being at home gives us room to move, play, snuggle, take breaks, and let your family simply be together. When everyone is relaxed and comfortable in their own space, genuine interactions tend to come naturally.

If you’re looking for a New Braunfels, TX family or newborn photographer who wants to capture more than everyone simply smiling at the camera, I’d love to photograph your family. Whether we’re documenting a brand-new baby, your growing family, or just an ordinary season of childhood, my goal is always to create candid photographs that feel like you. Reach out today to start planning your in-home lifestyle session!