Play Me a Tune – Albany, NY Family Photographer
The holiday season and family gatherings go hand in hand. Although the Fall and early December are packed with sessions for holiday gift giving; the last few weeks of the month for most photographers generally lends itself to some availability. It was great being able to schedule this family’s session towards the end of the month. They were getting together just before Christmas, for an early celebration – and really wanted to have some professional portraits done. We shot in various rooms in the house, and really came away with a wonderful collection of images! Their daughter is a Senior at Emma Willard in Albany, NY. She’s quite involved with music, so her mom requested that we incorporate some instruments. I didn’t realize the family as a whole is quite artsy – and musical. It was adorable to hear them rave about their daughter’s talents, and to see Dad and Daughter giggling and holding some of their favorite instruments for a photo.
It’s very normal for people to feel a bit uneasy in front of a camera. Generally when I review the images from a session – the first are a bit stiff, and then the natural expressions begin to come out as we progress. Given that I enjoy a more “life style” approach to portraits – I usually ask the family about themselves and get them talking/reminiscing. In addition to the parents and daughter – an Aunt and Grandfather were in town. The “girls” now women, laughed as they listened to their father talk about what the two of them were like as little girls. That really is a part of my job that I love. I definitely am a people person – and truly do enjoy getting to meet families and watching them interact. Quick reviews in camera allow me to get a feel for what I’ve captured during the session – but it really is pronounced once I review the images on my computer.
I love when I can hear the conversations – and laughter come right out of the image. And the frosting on the cake…when they share that same feeling as we discuss the gallery during the ordering consultation. This last client did break into some tears at one point – and she’s not the first. Again, I can not say enough how much that warms my heart. I love that I can capture true emotions and interactions that speak so clearly to my clients.
So… something to tuck away – think about hiring a professional photographer to come to your next family gathering. It’s a wonderful time to get some family portraits!
