Selecting the Perfect Style of Family Photography for Your Family
Finding the right Calgary family photographer
matching your vision to their family photography style
posted February 27, 2025
Step with me into the world of professional family photography where love, laughter, and cherished family memories come to life through stunning family imagery. When selecting the perfect style of family photography that is right for your family, there are many things to consider and multiple photography styles to select from. Whether it's the timeless elegance of classic family portraiture, the spontaneous joy of lifestyle family photos, or the artistic flair of documentary-style family photography, each family photography approach offers a glimpse into the heart of the family being professionally photographed.
From candid moments of your small children documented as they play in your backyard to a formal studio family photo session, each family photography style will showcase your family in a unique narrative. In this blog post, I will discuss the most popular styles of family photography that help to reflect the essence of each family unit by celebrating your family dynamics and showcasing your family bonds. Join me on this journey as we explore how these different styles not only freeze these important moments in time but also preserve your families emotions, connections, and unique personalities that make each family truly special.
The importance of capturing family moments
Capturing family moments is an essential part of preserving the story of your family's history. These moments, whether big family milestones or simple everyday moments, weave together the rich tapestry of familial bonds. Family photographs help to serve as tangible memories that can be revisited daily, help to spark nostalgia and evoke strong emotions tied to those special family memories. They allow families to reflect on growth, changes, and the love that binds them together. In an age where everything seems fleeting, having these visual reminders of shared family experiences provides a sense of continuity and belonging within one’s family.
In addition to having your professional family portraits as personal keepsakes, family photos also play a significant role in connecting generations. Grandparents can reminisce over family pictures taken during their children's youth, while parents can share these visual narratives with their own kids as they grow and eventually have their own families. Sharing of these family images not only strengthens familial ties but also helps younger generations understand their heritage and the experiences that shaped their family’s history. The stories told through family photographs can bridge the gap between past and present, making history come alive in a very meaningful way.
Traditional family photography in studio and outdoors
Traditional family photography styles often evoke a sense of nostalgia and timelessness. Characterized by naturally posed photos, this family photography style focuses on the careful arrangement of family members, often in a large expansive outdoor setting or in studio with a clean and classic backdrop. This family photography approach allows families to present themselves in a polished and put together manner, capturing their essence in a way that is both elegant and enduring. Traditional family photography and classic family photos can be taken in a studio with a experienced professional family photographer that is knowledgable and comfortable working with studio lighting and posing families in these types of settings. Alternatively a scenic outdoor location is a great option that utilizes natural light to enhance clarity and warmth in your family photos. It is also a great option If you’re planning on including your family pet as outdoor photo shoot locations allow for a little more freedom to move around and explore during the photo shoot.
One of the hallmarks of traditional classic family portrait photography is its emphasis on the family unit. Often, I will encourage family members to wear coordinated outfits, which helps create a cohesive look. It also makes this style of family photography extremely popular for creating family photos for holiday cards, family announcements, and other family occasions where a polished family photo is desired. When selecting a more traditional style of family photography, the images from your session will also be perfect for displaying proudly in your home, serving as a constant reminder of the love and unity your family shares. Family photos are often handed down as family heirlooms through multiple generations which will help to preserve your family's legacy.
Lifestyle family photography
Lifestyle family photography has gained popularity in recent years, as it celebrates the natural interactions and everyday moments shared among family members. This style of family photography emphasizes candid shots that capture authentic emotions and the essence of family life. This approach allows family photographers to document genuine moments that reflect a family’s unique personality and dynamics. Family photo sessions with a lifestyle family photographer usually unfold organically, allowing your photographer to capture the nuances of family interactions and the love that permeates those moments. The result is a collection of family snap shots that feel spontaneous and alive, preserving memories in a way that feels true to life.
Documentary family photography
Documentary family photography represents a powerful approach that goes beyond traditional naturally posed images, capturing the authentic and often overlooked moments of family life. This style of family photography focuses on storytelling, aiming to create a visual narrative that reflects the realities of everyday family experiences. Many times, photographers in this genre often immerse themselves in the family's environment, documenting candid interactions and even the mundane tasks that make up daily family life. The result is a comprehensive portrayal of your family, showcasing both the joyful and challenging moments you encounter together. Documentary family photographers will usually encourage families to embrace their imperfections and highlight the reality that no family is perfect, and that's what makes each family's story so unique.
Tips for a successful family photoshoot
Whether you decide to hire a family photographer to document classic family photos of your loved ones or lean towards a more lifestyle or documentary approach for your next family photo session, preparing for a successful family photo shoot involves careful planning and consideration of various elements that contribute to an overall positive experience. One key tip is to select a comfortable and familiar location if being photographed outdoors. Whether it’s a favourite park or a meaningful landmark in the city downtown core, selecting a setting for your family session that resonates with your family can help everyone involved in the family photos feel more at ease. A relaxed atmosphere will always result in more authentic interactions, resulting in more candid moments that will capture the essence of your family dynamic.
My style as a Calgary family photographer leans towards a more traditional and classic approach to family portraits so for my clients, another important aspect to preparing for your family photo session is to coordinate outfits without being overly matched. Selecting complementary colors and styles ensures that everyone looks cohesive without sacrificing everyone’s personality. This approach will also help add visual interest to your family photographs, allowing your family to express themselves while still creating a united, polished look. All of my family photography sessions include a pre-session planning, styling and concept consultation so that we can discuss these important elements and to ensure the day of your family session is as stress free as possible.
Lastly but most importantly, communication with the photographer you decide to hire to photograph your family is essential for a successful family photo shoot. You should discuss your expectations, preferences, and any specific images you are hoping for prior to your session to ensure you and your family photographer are both on the same page. A great family photographer will take the time to understand the photographic needs of your family and tailor your family session accordingly. This collaboration will also ensure that the final images created by your photographer will reflect your family’s unique story and photographic style.
Family photography trends to watch in 2025
As the world of family photography continues to evolve, new trends emerge that reflect the changing dynamics of family life and the ways in which families wish to capture their special family moments. One trend that continues to gain traction is the use of natural light and outdoor locations that hold special meaning for families. Families are increasingly opting for sessions in Calgary parks and sometimes even their own backyards, allowing for a more relaxed and authentic family photography experience. This family photography trend emphasizes the beauty of candid moments and the natural interactions that occur in familiar environments which often, will result in images that feel genuine and vibrant.
Additionally, I have found that there has been a significant rise in the popularity of multi-generational family photography sessions. Many families are recognizing the importance of including grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins in their family portrait sessions and opting to celebrate these special family bonds with a studio family photography session. This trend not only captures the essence of your family's legacy but also allows for a broader range of interactions and emotions to be documented. As families continue to evolve and grow, so too will the trends in family photography, reflecting the love and connections that bind them together.
Preserving memories through family photography
Preserving family memories through professional family photos is a timeless practice that will allow your family to document their journey and family experiences. All three photography styles above will ensure your family photos serve as a bridge to the past and allow you to revisit moments that may otherwise fade from memory. By capturing these significant milestones, everyday interactions, and spontaneous family adventures – your family can create a visual archive that tells your unique family story. With the advancements in technology and all the incredible printed products that are available to us to preserve our family memories, it has never been easier. Together let’s create a digital archive, along with family heirloom albums and portrait wall art that showcases all your favourite family images. While social media platforms allow you to share your images with family and friends, let’s not forget the importance of capturing and preserving family memories that we can feel, touch and enjoy day after day, reminding us of the love, laughter, and connections that define our family history!
Looking for a family photographer in Calgary?
Look no further! As a mom to two boys myself, I understand fully the value of family memories and the special moments that shape your family’s story. I’m passionate about capturing these cherished moments and transforming them into timeless images that your family will treasure for a lifetime. For over 14 years I’ve been offering family photography in Calgary both outdoors and in studio. I would love the opportunity to connect with you so that together we can document your family through beautiful portraits.