Sarah Jordan Photography

I have a confession to make: Once upon a time, not too long ago, I was afraid of doing in-home family sessions. I remember being nervous about the lighting, the rambunctious toddlers in a confined space, and the lack of “perfect” backdrops. That’s why I find it really interesting that lately, these have become some of my favorite sessions!

What changed? I still encounter the same challenges…but my focus has shifted. I no longer try to fit a family into what I think an ideal photo should be; instead, I just try to let people relax and play in the places they are most comfortable. Bring a toddler to a new place, and what do they do? Run around like crazy, explore, run, yell, run, and often ignore all the adults around. And they run. That’s exactly what they are supposed to do at that age, but it’s not necessarily the best situation for capturing genuine personalities and interactions. At home, however, kids are comfortable. They smile more…laugh more…they have fun showing me around their little worlds.

Don’t get me wrong – I still love finding a new and unique location for photo sessions…but sometimes there really is no place like home.

When I first spoke with mom about her vision for this session, I was in love with the idea. She didn’t want a “portrait session.” She just wanted to capture her family exactly as it is at this moment, doing the things they enjoy the most. Baking cookies, reading, coloring Easter eggs, playing with their animals…the stuff that they might take for granted as being “normal” right now, but want to remember when the kids are off at college or playing with little ones of their own.
During most sessions, I talk a lot. I play with the kids, give ideas for places to sit/lay down/stand, act like a goof, etc. It was very different for me to just hang back and snap away. In a way, it was relaxing. The family did all the work, and all I had to do was capture it. But the weight and significance of this task was not lost on me.
J, I hope I did your family justice! I hope that when you look at your photos, you will be transported back to that day when you were focused on just enjoying each other and the love between you all. Thanks for inviting me into your home for such a special occasion.