Candid Family Mini Sessions at Creative Gardens

Last summer, we had the joy of capturing a series of family mini sessions at Creative Gardens, and the results were heartwarming! These family portrait sessions, filled with laughter and genuine connections, showcased the beautiful bonds and unique personalities within each family.

The love and connection between family members was beautifully evident. We photographed parents playing with their kids, sharing warm embraces, and simply enjoying each other’s company. One image that particularly stands out was of a father with his two daughters as the sunlight creates a glow behind them. The tenderness and affection in these family pictures is gorgeous.

Here's a glimpse into the moments we captured at these family mini sessions.

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Memorial Art Gallery Family Pictures: Rochester NY photographers

Family pictures are a timeless way to capture moments that last a lifetime. When looking for the perfect backdrop for these cherished memories, consider incorporating outdoor art into your photo session. The outdoor art at the Memorial Art Gallery provided a unique and visually appealing setting for your family pictures, adding an artistic element to your portraits.

Whether it's a vibrant mural, a whimsical sculpture, or a stunning landscape design, the outdoor art at Memorial Art Gallery added depth and interest to these golden hour family pictures. Some of the art reflected their personality and style, creating a one-of-a-kind backdrop that reflected shared interests and values.

Portraits at the Memorial Art Gallery also offered the opportunity to play with colors, textures, and shapes, adding creative flair to these family photos, creating dynamic and engaging images that stand out.

So next time you're planning a family photo session, consider exploring the Memorial Art Gallery as a unique and meaningful portrait location in Rochester. Not only will it elevate your pictures aesthetically, but it will also add a personal touch that captures the essence of your family's story.

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Love and Valentine's Day Wishes: Fairport NY Photographers

Valentine’s Day. Whether you’re all in on the romance or rolling your eyes and calling it “amateur hour,” it’s a holiday we, as photographers, never ignore.

Because love isn’t one-size-fits-all—it’s for everyone.

We celebrate love in all its forms. Yes, the traditional holiday is full of grand romantic gestures, but love is so much more than that.

Love is a first kiss—and a 60th wedding anniversary dance.
Love is cuddling your kids and cherishing time with grandparents.
Love is doing the dishes because your partnership is built on equality.
Love is an adorable pet who greets you like you’re their whole world.
Love is planting a tree for future generations to enjoy it’s beauty.
Love is a friend who drops everything and says, “How can I help?”
Love is holding hands through the hard stuff and laughing at the silly things.
Love is caring about people, even when they don’t look like you or believe like you.

Love is all of these things, and so much more, because love is a feeling, a moment, and an action.

This Valentine’s Day, let’s celebrate it all and use love to improve the world around us—because love is everything. ❤️

Why Winter Family Photos Are Worth It

Winter family photos offer something unique that can’t be replicated in any other season. Here's why you should consider a winter session for your next family portrait:

1. A Serene Winter Backdrop for Family Pictures
Winter landscapes, from fresh snowfall to frosty trees, create a serene, magical setting. Even without snow, the soft, cool tones of the season add timeless beauty to your photos, with a quiet atmosphere that makes the moment feel extra special.

2. Cozy, Stylish Outfits
Coordinating outfits for winter fashion can include adorable, layered looks—knit sweaters, scarves, cozy hats, and boots—that add texture and warmth to your family pictures.

3. Fewer Crowds
Winter means fewer people at popular photography spots, giving you a more intimate, relaxed family portrait experience without distractions.

4. Celebrate Every Season
Winter offers its own beauty, and including it in your yearly photo tradition ensures you’re capturing all the special moments throughout the year. Plus there are so many fun activities you can include in winter family pictures!

Final Thoughts
Cold weather doesn’t mean we stop having fun outdoors—let’s get creative with your winter family portraits in Rochester! We’re ready if you are. Reach out today to schedule your family portrait session and let’s create something magical together!

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5 Signs It's Time to Update Your Professional Branding Photos

How Do You Know When It’s Time for New Branding Images?

As brand photographers, we’ve worked with countless clients who came to us feeling unsure about whether it was the “right” time to update their professional branding images. Time and time again, they try to talk themselves out of updating the boring old headshots they’ve had online for years.

The truth is, there are some clear signs that it’s time to refresh your headshot and brand photography. Here are five reasons why you should update your professional headshot and branding images:

1. Your Personal Brand Has Evolved

Your business is dynamic, and your personal branding should reflect that. If you've updated your logo, colors, or messaging, your professional images need to match. Consistency is crucial for a cohesive brand identity. Outdated portraits can confuse potential clients and weaken your brand's impact.

2. You’ve Added New Services or Products

Every time your business grows or pivots, your brand photography should evolve to show off those changes. New offerings deserve the spotlight, and updated branding images can highlight what’s new while keeping your audience tuned in.

3. Your Current Photos Don’t Feel Like “You” Anymore

Have you ever looked at your website or social media and thought, “That doesn’t represent who I am now”? Personal growth and professional evolution often mean your old images no longer align with your vibe or story. Fresh photos can capture the authentic, current version of you and your business.

4. Your Industry or Audience Expectations Have Shifted

Trends change, and so do audience expectations. If your industry leans into modern, lifestyle-focused visuals and your branding still feels formal or outdated, you could be missing the mark with potential clients. Keeping your branding photos current ensures you stay competitive and relevant.

5. You Haven’t Updated Your Images in Over Two Years

If it’s been more than two years since your last branding session or headshot update, it’s probably time for a refresh. Think about how much has likely changed in that time—your business, your style, and even your own look! Regular updates keep your brand feeling fresh and aligned with where you are now.

Ready to Refresh?

Professional branding images are one of the most impactful ways to tell your story and connect with your audience. If any of these reasons resonate with you, it might be time to schedule a personal brand photography session. Let’s create images that truly reflect your brand’s unique personality and purpose!

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7 Holiday Photo Tips: How to Be in the Family Pictures and in the Moment too

As the holidays approach, families begin preparing for family gatherings, delicious meals, and cherished traditions. It's one of the most photographed times of the year, with countless candid moments and posed family photos to treasure for years to come. But if you're always the one behind the camera, you might notice a glaring absence in those snapshots: you.

This year, let’s change that! As a family portrait photographer, we want to share our top tips for being both in the pictures and fully present to soak in the joy of the holidays.

1. Set Up a "Photo Zone"

Designate a specific area in your home as a photo-friendly spot. Whether it’s in front of a decorated tree, by a cozy fireplace, or against a simple wall with festive accents, having a set location makes it easy to gather people for quick group shots. Set up a tripod, and use the self timer feature on your phone so you can jump into the frame easily.

2. Ask for Help

You don’t need to be the sole photographer. Hand the camera or phone to a family member or friend and let them take the family pictures too! Most people are more than happy to help, you just have to ask for it. Pro Tip: The more you’re willing to let go of perfection, the more relaxed and genuine the photos will be.

3. Take Pictures of the Candid Moments

Some of the best holiday memories are made when no one is “posing” for the camera. Set your camera or phone on a surface to capture spontaneous moments during gift exchanges, cooking, or game night. For a truly immersive experience, consider using a time-lapse feature or video mode, which can later be paused to grab stills of heartfelt interactions.

4. Plan One "Golden Hour" Family Portrait Session

Instead of trying to capture every moment, schedule a specific time for family pictures. Pro Tip: Hire a photographer to take these family portraits! Especially if the whole family is together for the first time in ages! Make it fun and festive—wear matching pajamas, or gather before dinner in your holiday best. Once you’ve taken a few posed shots, put the camera away and enjoy the rest of the day.

5. Focus on Connection Over Perfection

Holiday pictures don’t have to be flawless to be meaningful. Embrace the messy, beautiful reality of the season. Whether it’s kids being silly, grandparents laughing, or the family dog sneaking into the shot, these imperfections tell the real story of your family’s celebration.

6. Print Your Favorite Family Pictures

While digital photo albums are convenient, there’s something magical about holding a printed photo of your family picture. After the holidays, take the time to print your favorite images. Whether it’s a framed photo on your mantel or a memory book to flip through, these tangible keepsakes will make all the effort worthwhile.

7. Give Yourself Permission to Put the Camera Down

Sometimes, the best way to be present is to not capture the moment. Trust that the memories you make will live on in your heart, even if they don’t make it into your family photo album. Balancing photography and presence means knowing when to step back and simply enjoy the company of your loved ones.

This holiday season, commit to being part of the story—both in front of the camera and in the memories you’re creating. After all, years from now, your family will treasure the family pictures that show you were there, fully immersed in the joy of the season.

From our families to yours, happy holidays!

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Rochester NY Family Pictures at Home

Capturing family pictures in the comfort of one's home offers a unique and intimate experience. Recently, we had the pleasure of photographing a beautiful family portrait session in their own backyard, which added an extra layer of connection to the images. This familiar environment allowed them to interact naturally, resulting in candid moments that truly showcased their bond.

The session highlighted not just posed portraits but also playful interactions and genuine expressions. Whether it was the parents sharing a quiet moment together or the children engaging on the playset, we were able to capture a range of emotions and stories within a single setting.

In the end, this family portrait session served as a wonderful reminder of how the simplest places can hold the most significant memories. The resulting images are more than just photographs; they are lasting treasures that encapsulate the essence of family life at home. We look forward to seeing how these memories will be cherished as they grow together.

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