When you have four kids and a dog, easy and fun family photos may just be a must. It turns out, the front yard can be the perfect location. First of all, it was pretty. Green and nicely manicured is always a winner. This was a morning session so the sun was coming up from behind their house which made for great back light. And the convenience factor was ideal. A personal location keeps everyone comfortable and makes taking breaks easy. Snacks and bathrooms are at hand, and we know how important snacks and bathrooms are to kids and adults alike!
The Vibe
Mom dressed everyone in neutrals and greens and I love it! I adore a mix of neutrals for a comfortable sophisticated look and it fits into so many settings perfectly, such as this one. I am so very lucky to have photographed this charming family a few times now, check these out from a few years ago. And every time the kids are lovely to work with. You know how I always say that kids can’t help but be themselves even with a camera pointed at them? It’s true once again. The kids are sweet and adorable and happy to cuddle and be playful with mom and dad. In the end we created super playful and heartfelt images that showcase the kids personalities and family connection. When the kids look back on these as grown ups, they will immediately be transported to this time and place. That’s so stinking special!
I am already looking forward to the next time I get to spend some time with this warm and playful family.
Gear and Settings
Sony A7iv 24-70 2.8 Nikon D750 70-200 2.8 It was sunny and there was plenty of light so my ISO stayed at about 600. I always keep aperture as open as possible, but this was a large group so 3.6 if the group was in a straight line 4.0 if they were mixed up and 2.8 for the single shots. Shutter speed was adjusted as needed.
Do you ever wonder why moms make such a big deal about family photos?
It's because we know how fast it all goes. One day they're tiny and the next they're off to kindergarten. I started photographing my own kids for that exact reason, and it turned into a full career.
Now with 13 years of experience, I help families get photos that feel like them, not a stock image.
If you want photos that actually feel like your family, comment "INFO" and I'll walk you through how a session works🤍
POV: I have no idea how to pose my family.
Good news, neither do most of my clients, and it's never a problem.
I don't hand out poses on my sessions. I guide you into moments that feel natural, a hand on a shoulder, a real laugh, kids just being kids.
After 13 years photographing families, I've learned the best photos happen when nobody is trying too hard.
My job is to make you comfortable so the connection shows up on its own.
Follow for more family photography tips🤍
My non negotiables as a family photographer👇
Kids get to be themselves, no forced smiles here. Connection always comes before perfection.
And what you wear matters more than people think.
I have spent 13 years learning how to help families relax in front of the camera and just be themselves.
That is how you get photos that actually feel like you.
If you want a laid back, heartfelt session for your family, comment BOOK and let's talk🤍
30 poses for your next shoot? I promise you don't need a list.
What matters more is feeling relaxed enough to just be your family.
My job is to guide you into moments that feel natural, not stiff or forced.
Thirteen years in, I still believe connection beats a perfect pose every time.
Want my real tips for a relaxed, natural session instead of a pose list?
Comment PREP and I'll send them your way📸
If we haven't met yet, hi! My name is Leslie.
I'm the photographer behind Leslie Levine Photography, and for the past 13 years I've been helping families capture the fast, precious days of raising kids.
What started as photographing my own kids turned into a business helping other families do the same.
My goal is simple:
✨ keep things natural and breezy
✨ let your kids be themselves
✨ create real connection, not stiff poses
✨ give you a fun, laid back experience
✨ deliver photographs that feel like art for your walls
You don't have to be a "perfect" family for perfect photos. Your kids don't have to sit still and smile on cue. And it's never too late (or too early) to capture this season before it's gone.
If you're a mom who wants to hold onto these years, here's what you'll find here:
• session prep tips
• what to wear guidance
• photography tips
• location ideas
• ways to display your photos
Follow along for more family photography tips and a behind the scenes look at sessions.
And if you've been thinking about booking a session for your family, comment SESSION and I'll send you the details.🤍
