Looking for a Seattle Photographer Who Can Connect with Kids?

If you’ve ever wondered how your kids will do during family photos, you’re not alone. Almost every parent asks me the same thing. You want photos that feel natural and true to your family, but you also want someone who understands real kid energy. Shy kids, silly kids, slow-to-warm kids, high-energy kids. All personalities are welcome, and all of them do well with me.

Before photography became my full time work, I spent many years as a nanny, and those years shaped how I approach every single session. I learned how to read kids quickly, how to meet them where they are, and how to make the whole experience feel relaxed and enjoyable for everyone involved.

Here’s what that looks like during a session with me.

I keep things playful and active

Most kids don’t want to stand still and smile, and honestly, that’s not what I’m trying to get anyway. I build sessions around movement and play because that’s what feels real and comfortable for kids. You might see things like:

• walking and bumping shoulders

• tickling

• running

• exploring the space

• jumping

• swinging kids

• sibling silliness

Natural movement brings out genuine connection and real expressions.

I read kids fast

After years of childcare, I can usually tell pretty quickly what each child needs. Some kids want space. Some need a gentle start. Some want to show me everything they find. Some need a little silly energy from me. I adjust instantly so they never feel pressured or rushed. When kids feel understood, they settle in faster.

I let them lead

Every child warms up in their own way, and I follow their pace instead of trying to make them follow mine. Some kids jump right into play. Others hang back for a few minutes to take everything in. Both are totally normal. Letting them lead takes the pressure off and helps your family photo session feel natural, not forced.

I stay calm in every situation

Nothing surprises me. Tantrums, big feelings, snack breaks, sudden bursts of energy, a toddler who refuses to be put down. I’ve seen it all. I stay calm and adjust instead of fighting what’s happening. If someone needs a minute, they get it. If we need to change the plan, we do. Kids can feel when adults are calm, and that energy helps the whole session run smoothly.

I use simple, kid-friendly prompts

Posing doesn’t have to be complicated. Kids respond best to quick, easy instructions that feel like part of the moment. I keep things simple:

• Tell brother your funniest joke

• Check dad for boogers!

• “Who has the fastest spinning twirl?”

• Tell mom your best secret

• Give eachother the biggest squeeze

These tiny interactions create the most honest images, without forcing anyone to “perform.”

Every personality photographs beautifully

Shy kids, wild kids, sensitive kids, independent kids… they all bring something special to a session. I don’t force any child into something that doesn’t feel natural for them. Instead, I work with who they are and let their personality guide the flow. That’s when the most meaningful photos happen.

You don’t have to prep for perfection

Please don’t stress about behavior or expectations. Your kids don’t need to sit still. They don’t need to listen perfectly. They don’t even need to smile at me. They just need to be themselves, and I’ll take care of the rest.

My goal is always the same. I want your family photos to feel comfortable, genuine, and enjoyable for everyone.

If you’re looking for a family photographer in Seattle, Bellevue, or the surrounding North Seattle communities, I’d love to plan something together. I keep sessions easy and playful so your kids feel comfortable right away. You can book directly here or message me at the link below when you’re ready.