A DAY WITH THE H FAMILY

The day started at the home of the H Family—kids, mom, and their dog all snuggled in bed in their jammies, sipping warm drinks and playing together while Dad moved quietly in the background, getting ready for the day. This cozy yet energetic start set the tone for the rest of their session: full of movement and full of heart.

This adventurous, vivacious family are new to the Sacramento area, having recently relocated from Tennessee. And already, I swear they’ve explored more of the region than I have after living here for years! L, the mom, works as a therapist, and E, the dad, is a geology professor. Their two children are as dynamic as they come—8-year-old L is bursting with energy and curiosity, always ready for a science experiment or a brain-teasing puzzle. A, their 6-year-old daughter, is a warm-hearted social butterfly who loves art and creating with her hands. And then there’s their dog O, the most affectionate, snuggly old pup I’ve ever met. If someone is sitting, he’s curled up next to them—without fail.

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A FULL AND BEAUTIFUL DAY

When I asked L what a perfect day looked like for their family, she described a rhythm that felt familiar and aspirational all at once: slow starts in bed with the kids and dog, tea-making, family adventures, creative time, outdoor play, and ending the day together with movies, dessert, books, and quiet connection. And that is exactly what we captured.

From jammies to board games to hiking boots then basketball shoes , their day was filled with movement and joy—but more importantly, it was woven with meaningful connection. Whether they were piled on the couch, reading a book, tossing a basketball, or discovering something new, there were constant threads of love holding it all together. So many gentle touches, spontaneous hugs, and playful moments of togetherness—it was a beautiful reminder that even in the busiest of days, we can find space to connect with the people we love most.

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A FAVORITE MOMENT

One moment that especially stayed with me happened during a hike in the middle of the day. During the hike, in between racing mom to try to get the most steps in, L would hold his mom’s hands and they’d walk together. At one point he said “My friends would probably make fun of me for holding your hand, but that won’t stop me.” 🥹 That simple sentence felt like such a testament to the love and security these kids are growing up with.

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THANK YOU, H FAMILY!

Thank you, H Family, for inviting me into your home and lives, for sharing your laughter, your rhythms, and your warmth. It was such a joy to witness and document the beautiful, real life you’re building here in Carmichael.

WHY DOCUMENTARY PHOTOGRAPHY?

I always love to ask my clients why they chose a documentary session.

When I asked L, she said:

“The candid family portraits have not been for me. I know the prep and bribes that go into them. I love the idea of the free-flowing, ‘capture who you are at this moment,’ and those pictures will last a lifetime. Gives you a chance to go back and remember those moments. I take pictures as a diary, a way to remember. I love going back and reliving those moments. My dad was always so good at taking pictures—grabbing just the right shot. Pictures are special.”

That sentiment is exactly why I do this work.

Documentary family photography captures the in-between. The real. The beautifully ordinary. It’s not about perfect poses—it’s about preserving your family’s rhythm, personality, and connection just as it is, right now. These are the images that will one day take you right back.

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