There’s a special kind of comedy that happens when a photographer decides to take their own family photos. You’d think it would be simple—after all, I photograph families all the time. But when you’re both the photographer and someone who needs to be in the shot, things get interesting fast.
This year, I packed up my gear and my family and headed to Hal Scott Preserve, one of my favorite spots with its tall grassy field and rustic wooden fence. The weather couldn’t have been better: sunny, bright, and just cool enough to keep everyone comfortable. It was the perfect backdrop for the kind of relaxed, natural photos I love.
The Setup
I kept things simple and portable:
- Tripod for stability
- My lighting - 2 of my trusty Godox AD200 Pro ii
- Magmod 24" softbox for soft, flattering fill
Once everything was in place, the real fun began.
The Running Back and Forth Routine
There’s nothing quite like setting the timer, hitting the shutter, and then sprinting across a field while your family watches you with a mix of amusement and disbelief. Every time I’d get into position, the camera would click, and someone would burst out laughing—usually because I was still catching my breath or trying to look composed after a full‑speed dash.
At one point, I’m pretty sure my family was more entertained by me than by the actual photo session. And honestly, that’s what made it perfect. The laughter, the outtakes, the moments in between—those are the memories I’ll treasure just as much as the final images.
Why I Love Doing It Anyway
Taking your own family photos is chaotic, a little ridiculous, and definitely a workout. But it’s also incredibly rewarding. There’s something meaningful about being both behind the camera and in front of it—about capturing your family exactly as you are, with all the joy and silliness that comes with it.
In the end, we walked away with beautiful images, rosy cheeks from laughing, and a story we’ll be telling for years. And honestly, that’s what family photos are all about.
