TBH, there’s nothing worse than awkward interactions. Double that when it’s an awkward interaction with a client who’s paying you to take effortless, beautiful photos! As the photographer, you feel like there’s this responsibility to carry the conversation and run the show, so if things get weird, you feel like it’s on your back. Which […]

Running a photography business SOUNDS like the dream, right? And it is, in so many ways! Creating your own schedule, building a business based on creativity, honing your own style, and telling the stories of your clients through pictures—it’s definitely a beautiful profession to pursue. On the other hand, though, there are less glamorous parts […]

Photographing families is one of my favorite things in the world. I know, I know… The thought of orchestrating toddlers and babies and potentially grumpy teens and getting them all to cooperate (and not to mention, look at the camera… at the same time) might sound like a nightmare to some people, but for me, […]

After being in business for more than a decade, I’m always amazed by the things that *actually* impact my photography business’s growth and forward motion. While on the outside, I’m a lifestyle and family photographer in the Sacramento area—when you peel back the curtain, my business is so much more than a nice camera and […]

If you’re just starting out in your photography business—or even if you’re a year or two in—you may be tempted to take on any and every client or project inquiry. After all, the path to success is growing your portfolio, booking clients, and staying busy… right? Welllll, not exactly. Those are important aspects to growing […]

Most photographers have a signature “thing” they’re known for… amazing scenic shots, epic family portraits, beautiful contrast, breathtaking black-and-white images. My “thing” that I’ve always prioritized is finding good lighting during my photography sessions. Good lighting can be a true game-changer for any session so I want to talk all about photography lighting tips you […]

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but you’re going to make a few mistakes at the beginning of your photography career. You just will! Take it from someone who has made *plenty* (almost daily) over 10 years of growing and running my business—it doesn’t matter how skilled or passionate you are, you’ll […]

As a long-time family photographer, one of the main questions my clients come to me with is, “How should I style my family for our pictures?” And it makes sense, too! We often see these perfectly curated family images on Instagram and blogs, with color-coordinated outfits, pristinely designed homes, and sweet, smiling kiddos. And you […]

As a mama of 5 and an ex-kinder-and-first-grade teacher (and not to mention, a family photographer for the past decade), I know a thing or two about creative ways to get kids to listen and cooperate. When it comes to family photoshoots, sure, the whole point is to get gorgeous, commemorative snapshots of families to […]