Asking For A Documentary Family Photo Session Is Brave

As a photographer I can get so wrapped up in thinking that when families want photography services, they will of course ask me for it. That's how we humans function with everything we want, right? When we want something we start researching where we can get it, what it will cost us, and what we'll get out of it – and them we go for it.Documentary family photography is getting more common, is a highly personalized service, the easiest session type by far, and freezes a real slice of life in photographs. The approach sounds amazing to me – so why aren't more families asking for them?But I realized that whether you are looking for a posed and propped newborn session, a lifestyle family session, or a documentary approach – you are fantastically brave to ask for it. It takes guts to contact someone who's work you admire, especially if you are uncomfortable being in pictures.When it comes to something most people haven't tried out, there's no one there to silence your concerns, either. Your friends might even agree with those pesky thoughts that trouble you:"We are probably too boring for a documentary session..."(I assure you – no family is.)"Oh gosh, I still haven't lost the baby weight – what if the pictures are unflattering since the photographer won't be posing us..."(I still aim to take pictures of everyone in the best possible way, even though I do prioritize moments and emotions – that's the priceless stuff.)"The kids are probably not going to behave..."(Secretly I actually hope they won't behave the whole time – those tantrums and mischiefs can be really fun for you to have as memories once you have some distance from them.)When pictures of you and your family are printed, they have the potential to be recorded in history, which can be daunting! Whether it is a keepsake for children, a birth announcement sent to relatives, or a holiday card sent to dear and far off friends, these pictures might live on forever! Or at least, beyond your lifetime.Now my intention is not to add pressure to a photo session, but to acknowledge that I see you. I know you are being brave when you send me a seemingly casual inquiry. If you find it in you to trust me with pictures of you, your kids will reap the benefits for decades to come.