Family Cabin Photoshoot Goldbar, Washington- Dawndra explains her style of Family Photography

This beautiful family loves spending time at their cabin in Goldbar Washington. This year they wanted to do their yearly family photos at their special second home. Of course I loved the idea, and I adore this family to the max. How lucky are these kids to have childhood memories in such a beautiful peaceful place? I imagine them looking at these images when they grow older- and them getting to see their younger self with such a story and such detail, that is why I love this job. Each year they grow and change and it just happens SO fast. Can’t we slow it down a little?

I would say the biggest shift in my family photography business came when I realized that what lit me up more than anything from these photo sessions were the moments of connection between family members. Anyone can take a posed photo with everyone smiling and looking at the camera (although those of you with little ones an pets know how challenging that can be as well:)

I just want to go deeper than that.

I want to feel the images and tell a story. And I want my clients to feel something as well. The moment I started showing only work that reflected this, and started taking the reigns during every shoot and guiding people through the entire session. While it can be argued that the images are still posed because I tell you to go sit on the porch -or to all stand together and look at each others eye color, the session feels more natural, fun, and even more candid.

There is a difference between being hired for your artistry, or simply hired as a service provider. I still take the images when everyone is looking as I do see the importance in that, but the majority of my sessions are cuddles, playing, smooches, and just looking at each other.

My favorite sessions are outside. Nature provides a multi-sensory environment that engages all senses. I keep hearing on my healthy podcasts about how it contributes to holistic development—cognitive, emotional, social, and also the physical for kids. My happiest memories as a child were outside in nature.

Your family heirlooms become a visual language of love and connection. I say this a lot, but there is NO family like you.

YOU ARE ART.

There are so many reasons to get yearly family photos done. Family photos serve as a form of non-verbal communication, capturing emotions and expressions that might be difficult to express with words. I love preserving these moments and milestones that can be cherished for years to come. I also love that if anyone falls on hard times, the images we create can provide joy.

Regularly viewing family photos that highlight connection can foster gratitude for the love and support within the family. It encourages an appreciation for the positive aspects of family life. I encourage all of my clients to have a family album made to look through with the kids every few months. It gets them excited about the next shoot! I can design this for you easily, just let me know!

I cannot express my gratitude for this family enough! The reason I chose this session to explain my style and way of shooting these sessions, is because it all unfolds so naturally with them. We go with the flow of the kids, and the river. Much love to you guys!