Have you ever scrolled through Instagram and spotted those family photos where the kids are laughing, the parents look relaxed, and the whole vibe just feels… joyful? Wanna know the not-so-secret secret to fun and emotion-filled family photos? Those magical moments aren’t about perfect poses or everyone looking at the camera. It’s all about the experience. As a family photographer, I’ve learned the key to authentic, joy-filled images starts well before I even bring out the camera. It begins with you, the parents, setting the stage.

Instead of framing family photo day as a chore, try hyping it up as an adventure! Believe me, I KNOW it is stressful, but try hard to not let your stress get the best of you! Before the session, tell your kids, “We’re going to have so much fun playing games and being silly. Our friend”—that’s me!—“is going to take some pictures while we’re having the best time.” This simple shift creates excitement instead of dread. Kids (and let’s be honest, your hubby too) feed off your energy. If you’re relaxed and ready to have fun, the rest of your family will follow suit. Plus, this approach makes the session less about “sitting still and smiling” and more about soaking in a moment together as a family. Isn’t that what photos are really about?

Picture this: your husband is flipping your toddler upside down, their belly laughs filling the air, while your oldest is playing the “tickle monster”. These are the moments that tug at your heartstrings years later when you’re flipping through an album or seeing these photos pop up as “memories” on your phone. My goal isn’t just to capture how your family looks but how it feels to be together at this beautiful stage in your lives. So, let’s make some memories—messy hair, spontaneous hugs, eskimo kisses, and all. Trust me, the less you worry about perfection, the more magic we’ll create together.

If you are looking for a photographer who prioritizes fun and emotion-filled family photos and magical moments over perfect smiles, then let’s be friends. Let’s book a session together! Learn more here!

Dress from MZP Client Closet (The Ivory)

Madison Z Photography provides newborn and family photography in Eastern North Carolina for busy moms who want a stress-free and luxury portrait experience. Also offering maternity, milestone, and baby photography. Based in Kinston, NC, I serve families in Greenville, Goldsboro, New Bern, Washington, Jacksonville, and all throughout Eastern North Carolina.

I offer a high-end, full service experience including pre-session preparation, exclusive access to the carefully curated Client Closet, a beautiful gallery of emotion-filled images, and an array of family heirlooms such as albums, prints, custom framing and more to pass down to your children. If you are searching for the perfect maternity, newborn, milestone, or family portrait photographer near Greenville, NC and are wanting to create heirlooms for your family, I can’t wait to serve you!