Family Photoshoot Expectations vs. Reality: Highlighting the Baugh Family

Some of the biggest worries when booking a photoshoot include: "what if it rains?" and "I hope my kids cooperate."

What if I told you both of these things could go "wrong" (I put wrong in quotes, because personally I don't ever expect or hope for kid's cooperation - chaos is welcome 😉) Nonetheless: The Baugh family walked up to their family photo session at the beach at the same time that rain arrived, with their toddler who was so into the ocean she didn't want much else to do with photos or anything else.

Recipe for disaster? Absolutely not. We still had a dreamy family session and even managed to announce an incredible update for their family plus an outfit change for everyone at the end!

Something that I want all of my family clients to remember, and something that this family did exceptionally well: Relinquish control, trust, and be in the moment.

Before every photo session I like to put mood boards together for the simple purpose to convey, visually, the type of emotions I am hoping to elicit from their family during our session. It is not setting expectations, it is not a shot list, and it most certainly is not what I expect their gallery to look exactly like.

By having open communication, communicating the goals of the photo session ("a few good ones of us as a family, and to announce our pregnancy" in this case) and then going in with flexible expectations of how your little ones will behave, what the setting will be like (windy, rainy, golden sunset, etc) you can leave worries at the car and just spend the photo time by making memories with your family and THAT is exactly what the Baugh family did, and THAT is exactly what made their end result so perfect.

Their mood board:

The themes we discussed beforehand included lots of cuddles, interactive play, a focus on encouraging their little ones curiosity with the sand and seashells, and really honing in on the feelings of it being the three of them in their own little world before announcing that a sibling was on their way!

Highlights from their gallery:

When sprinkles hit our forehead and their little one jetted off to the ocean, Levi and KK did an amazing job remaining in the moment, just happy to hang out with their sweet girl by the ocean and ready to tell the world about their newest addition. Because of their willingness to roll with the punches and their flexible expectations, we managed to document the sweetest bond between the three of them, catch their girl having so much fun with the water, and everyone was able to feel comfortable enough together - never pressured - so that they could enjoy the quality time spent together and I truly think that is what makes their photos perfect. The happy memories, not stressful ones, associated with the moments that were documented.

About Kelsi Grant - Hampton Roads Family Photographer

Ready to capture your family’s story? Whether it’s laughter-filled moments on the beach, cozy cuddles at home, or a playful session in your favorite park, I’m here to create a collection of images that reflect your family’s love and connection. As a Hampton Roads family photographer, I specialize in genuine, storytelling sessions across Chesapeake, Norfolk, Williamsburg, Virginia Beach, and beyond. Let’s turn your everyday moments into timeless memories—reach out today to start planning your session!

If you are looking for photos that don't require you to do any heavy lifting, where you can just place all of your trust in your photographer and enjoy the moments with your family, then I think we would be a great fit and I would love for you to hit that button below so we could talk more about your family photo visions ❤️

INQUIRE HERE