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.
Sitting poses don’t have to feel stiff or awkward. After 13 years of photographing couples, I know exactly how to guide you into poses that feel comfortable, connected, and completely natural.
You don’t need modeling experience, you just need the right direction.
Save these sitting pose ideas for your next couples shoot, and comment SESSION if you’re ready to plan yours🤍
If we haven’t met yet, hi helloooo I’m Leslie🤍
I’ve been behind the camera for 13+ years, and I’ve learned this the hard way your clients don’t need to be “photogenic”… they need to be directed.
Most photographers think posing is about telling someone where to put their hands. It’s not.
It’s about making people feel something natural enough that the pose disappears.
My clients don’t walk in as models.
They’re everyday people who feel awkward, stiff, and unsure what to do with their bodies.
But with the right posing framework, they leave looking like the best version of themselves.
Here’s what I teach photographers after 13 years of trial, error, and thousands of shoots:
As a photographer, your job is to
– never say “just be natural” (they won’t)
– guide micro movements (chin, shoulders, hands matter)
– create motion instead of stiffness (movement beats posing)
– build trust so expressions become real, not forced
Because great photos aren’t about perfect angles…
They’re about making your client feel seen, comfortable, and confident in front of your lens.
Posing is a skill. Direction is an art.
And once you understand both, everything about your photography changes.
💬DM “POSE” if you want my exact client directing prompts I use on every shoot
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📸
Leslie here🤍
You need this family photo idea. Skip the stiff pose where everyone stares at the camera and forces a smile.
Real connection makes the best photos, the kind where you're actually laughing or holding your kids close.
After 13 years photographing families, I've learned the natural moments always beat the posed ones.
My goal is to give you a laid back session that captures your family's true personality.
Follow for more photo ideas and tips📸
This is what moms mean when they say they want family photos.
It's not about perfect poses or getting everyone to look at the camera at once.
I'm Leslie Levine, and after 13 years photographing families in Oceanside, I've learned the best photos happen when kids are just being kids.
I don't chase perfection, I chase connection.
What's one moment with your family you wish you had captured on camera? Tell me below🤍
