Adele, Clara & the Traveling Dress

What’s better than having a princess dress for a photography session? TWO princess dresses! That was the case when I got to photograph this adorable family at the Indy Family Photo Studio. I’ve been lucky enough to participate in this year’s Little Dreamers Tutus Traveling Dress series. For this family photo session, we had two amazing gowns for Adele and Clara to wear. Little Edwin, the youngest at just three years old, looked adorable in his button-down and bow tie.

Adventures at the Indy Family Photo Studio

Adele, the oldest child at eight years old, is a sweet, sensitive, deep thinker. Clara is a fun, energetic five-year-old who loves dancing, and is your typical girly girl. Edwin is a classic little boy. He is full of energy and tends to get smothered with love by his older two sisters.

Upon getting into her gown, Adele proclaimed that she was the most beautiful one in the room. Adele’s gown was the Alyssa gown, like the gown from MJ’s Traveling Dress Session. Clara promptly let me know she wasn't going to participate. It was hilarious! Of course, once she saw her beautiful gown, she changed her mind. Not to be outdone by the two older sisters, Edwin kept trying to steal the show. He had the most expressive face! And really, is there anything cuter than tiny toddler feet?

I loved how these pictures truly captured each child’s personality. There’s fun energy from Clara, a thoughtful, dreamy look from Adele and tons of mischief from Edwin! My goal as a child and family photographer is to capture real smiles, real joy and real fun. Adventure sessions like this one allow me to build unique and fun adventures based on the things that make kiddos unique. I had so much fun pulling together this adventure for these three amazing little ones.

Little Dreamers Traveling Dress

I’ve very much enjoyed being a part of the Little Dreamers Tutus Traveling Dress program. Each dress has been unique, well-made, and filled with inspiration. These dresses add some fun and sparkle to our adventure photo sessions. Here are a few of the other Traveling Dress photo sessions.

• Claire & The Traveling Dress

• Miriam & The Traveling Dress

• Abby & The Traveling Dress

5 Ways My Kids Have Taught Me to Enjoy Life

Becoming a mother is one of the most amazing journeys I have been on in my adult life. Seeing my three children grow has been a source of never-ending joy. The way they approach the world and see the world has been a beautiful reminder to me that there are so many ways to enjoy life, people and the world around me.

In my work as a child and family photographer, I get a chance to capture that joy and that enthusiasm every day. Working with children and living with children, every day is an adventure. And some days, it’s exhausting. But there are so many amazing things my kids have taught me. Today, I wanted to share some of the lessons I’ve learned from my kids. Here are five things my kids have taught me that make my life more enjoyable.

5 Life Lessons from My Kids

1. It’s not hard to make friends.

As a mother to three boys, at times it feels like they will never slow down. But one thing that never ceases to amaze me is how easily they can make friends. Whether we are at a park, a playground or a birthday party, it is so easy for them to run up to another child and invite them to play. If you are warm, inviting, and kind. It’s not hard to make friends. As an adult, it feels hard to make a new friend! But if you just start talking to someone in a kind and friendly way… it isn’t hard at all!

2. Give brutally honest compliments.

I once heard one of my children yell “you have the face of an old man and I love it!” at his 3year old brother. While that might not be the best thing to shout at another human, we can still learn to be more open with our praise. Don’t hold back if you love someone, or something, and tell them why. Is your mom amazing? Tell her. Is your dad great at reading? Tell him. Is your spouse a wonderful listener? Tell them!

3. Dance for fun, at least once every day, even if you’re horrible at it.

Kids have such an amazing ability to dance like no one is watching. Anywhere. At any time, they have no hesitation to jump up and dance. It gives them such joy that I can’t help but join in! Dance isn’t only fun but there are both physical and mental health benefits. Not only is it a cardiovascular activity, but it can also help boost your mood. Recent research shows that dancing can support psychological well-being and can even decrease symptoms of both anxiety and depression. Plus, it can be a social activity. Dancing with my kids, even to the most ridiculous of songs has brought all of us great joy. Not only because it’s fun, but because it’s something we can do together.

4. While you’re at it, sing every day, too.

Having children introduced me to hundreds upon hundreds of songs. I never truly realized how many song lyrics I could store in my brain until I had kids. The joy and delight with which we can sing together brings me such happiness. Singing with my boys certainly makes my life more enjoyable. But what’s interesting is that there are actually scientifically proven benefits to singing! Singing can release endorphins that can alleviate anxiety and stress. Plus, it can improve mental function because it delivers more oxygenated blood to the brain. The brain has such an excellent memory for song that the Alzheimer’s Society has started “Singing for the Brain” sessions to help people suffering from dementia. So, when I get the chance to, I will belt out a song. Sometimes I’ll even do it without the boys!

5. Ask crazy “what if” questions, just to enjoy coming up with the answers.

What would the world look like if the sky was purple? Where would I travel if money was no object? What kind of person would I be if I was born 100 years ago? I love the way that my children ask questions about the world. The inquisitive mind of a child has curiosity about everything in the world around them. Keeping that fresh and childlike wonder alive in my brain and cultivating curiosity just for fun has truly made my life more enjoyable.

As Walt Streightiff once said: “There are no seven wonders of the world in the eyes of a child. There are seven million.”

Capturing Wonder in Kids Photo Sessions

The photos in this blog post are of my three boys. My oldest, Charlie, middle, Johnny, and youngest, Gus. Charlie is sharp, inquisitive, introverted, and very intellectual. He loves to read. Johnny is sweet, creative, deeply feeling, and loves to make things. Gus is silly, athletic, and energetic. He loves to be goofy and to roughhouse. Every day, they improve my life. And every day, I am reminded of the gifts they’ve given me. The things that I have learned by being a mother have enriched my world and made my life infinitely more enjoyable.

Never underestimate the wisdom of your kids.

5 Ways to Get Authentic Smiles at Photography Sessions

Getting real, authentic smiles can be one of the biggest challenges in a photo session. At Indy Family Photo, I’ve run into my share of kids who’ve only been told to say “Cheeeeeese” in front of the camera.

So for my family photo sessions, I strive to help my clients “relearn” how to act in front of the lens. Don’t get me wrong, a quick smile can sometimes be all a photo needs. But if you really want to capture those truly wonderful, happy moments — especially with the kiddos — then here are five quick tips to capturing authentic smiles at your next family session!

5 Ways to Photograph Authentic Smiles

1. Never Underestimate Funny Faces

For the really little kiddos (like toddlers), have mom or dad stand directly behind, or even crouched over the photographer. We’re talking as close as they can get! Then have them make the silliest faces they can. If all goes to plan, it will look like the kids are looking directly into the camera.

The mistake most people make is standing up higher, or off to the side, and the kids never look like they’re looking at the camera.

2. Grab Yourself a Sound Machine

Sound machines can be a lifesaver! I have one that makes amazing noises — everything from clapping to sad trombone to fart sounds! (You can probably guess which sound is the most popular…)

So grab a good sound machine, hit play and capture all that authentic smiles!

3. Remember the Game of Telephone?

Put your family in a row and have mom or dad start a game of telephone — only make it extra silly. This is a surefire way to get the kids rolling over with laughter.

4. Use “Bubbles”

No, not actual bubbles, though that could be fun. Instead, have the kids in the session say the word bubbles… only have them say it in their angriest voice. Or better yet, have dad say it. This never seems to fail when trying to get those authentic smiles from the kids in the session — even the adults!

5. Faking the Laughs

I love employing this technique because it always works wonders when nothing else will. Tell your subjects — the whole family — to start fake laughing as hard as they can. In a few moments, they’ll actually start laughing because the whole thing sounds so ridiculous and silly!

At Indy Family Photo, we use many of these kinds of techniques and more! We love capturing authentic smiles and laughter from our clients — it’s what we live for! If you’re interested in book a family session, or even a session just for the kids, please don’t hesitate to reach out!

James, Jacob, and Sophia | Kids Adventure Sessions

Childhood should be an adventure. And the beautiful thing about childhood is that every tiny kiddo’s adventures are unique. There’s no “one size fits all” adventures for kids. That’s why I love thinking creatively about my adventure shoots. An Indy Family Photo Adventure Session is built to encourage children’s imaginations to run wild. From princess gowns to forest adventures, my goal is to let kids play in an imaginary dream world, and to capture those memories, smiles and laughs to be enjoyed for years to come. That’s what I did with the three Beeson kids: James, Jacob and Sofia. Each of them had their own adventure, and I had such a blast photographing them.

Adventure Photos Shoots

These adventure sessions took place at Fort Benjamin Harrison State Park, the Indy Family Photo studio, and the area outside and around the studio. Because each of the three kids have very unique personalities, I wanted to make sure that their adventures were as unique as they are! Sophia is a kind, gentle, voracious reader who loves learning. James and Jacob love being silly and fun together. James is an amazing Lego-builder, and Jacob would love to be both a farmer and a surgeon when he grows up.

I pulled together two very special adventure shoots for this family - one for Sophia, and one for the two boys together. For Sophia, we rented several dresses. What little girl doesn’t love to dress up from time to time? I photographed her at home, with the grand piano that is special to her while she was wearing one of the beautiful dresses. The resulting photos were stunning and really capture her love for music! Together, we took more photos outside the studio, and in the studio as well. I made sure to get a few pictures of her with piles of her favorite books.

For the boys, their adventure photo session happened in the studio. They got dressed up for a few photos, and I made sure to get a few photos of James (the master builder) with his Legos. After, I transformed the studio into an epic playground! I dumped out 1000+ ball pit balls for them to all play in! It was soooo fun!! Then we headed over to the state park. That’s one of the huge benefits of the Indy Family Photo studio being nestled in the heart of historic Fort Ben! Together, they played in the creek and fields.

Making Photo Memories

Both shoots were full of sibling moments of jokes, pinches, wrestling, laughs, and more. But what’s more important is that we made memories during these adventure shoots. James and Jacob found crawdads, and Sophia told us about her favorite books and who she wants to be when she grows up. It was an experience for all of us. And, best of all, it’s captured in beautiful photographs to be enjoyed for years to come.

Adventure Session Vendors:

Sophia’s red dress - by Dollcake

Sophia’s blue dress - Rent the Runway

If you love this adventure session, you might also enjoy Jodie, Trent & Drake’s Fmaily Adventure Portraits and Lola and Lillian’s Colorful Adventure Session!

Modern Kids' Photo Sessions

It wasn’t all that long ago when getting your pictures taken meant a stuffy backdrop, forced smiles, and awkward poses. The resulting family portraits were equally as awkward! But that is not the case with portrait sessions at Indy Family Photo! We have modern kids sessions where the focus is on your kiddos and their unique personalities. Here's what a modern kids session at Indy Family Photo is like!

Modern Kids’ Sessions at Indy Family Photo

What’s so different about a photo session at Indy Family Photo? Here’s what happens during our modern kids’ sessions.

Photo Sessions Filled with Personality

Our kids’ sessions are all about celebrating the lives of your children, no matter their ages. It’s my goal that everyone should have an amazing time during their photo session. That’s why the sessions are focused on your little one. Not all kids have the same tastes and that’s what makes it fun! I take the time and care during the photo session to capture the personalities and quirks in each of your little ones.

Simple Photo Backdrops

Rather than having elaborate, fancy backdrops, a Modern Kids Session features a simple photo backdrop here in the studio. With a white or grey backdrop, we’ll capture tons of personality! I found that using a simple photo backdrop really lets a kid’s personality shine.

Photo Props? Why Not!

I welcome any props that will help your little ones feel at home. Feel free to bring their favorite toys, dress-up accessories, super hero capes and more! If your little one is a soccer whiz, bring the ball so they can show off. It’s all about capturing your little one, and who they are right now. Kids change so much and go through so many amazing stages. It’s important to me to capture their personality today in all its wild, crazy, individual glory.

Timeless Photography

Say so long to those old fashioned ‘school picture’ photo sessions! Our modern kids’ sessions are never trendy or dated looking with cheesy décor. You will be happy to hang up these photos on your walls. They’ll look great on your walls or on your mantel forever! Or, if you prefer a more hands-on look, you might consider putting your unique children’s portraits into a photo album to keep those precious memories close at hand.

Fun Kids’ Photography at Indy Family Photo

This is a photo of my own kiddo, who absolutely loves to hang out at the photo studio. For this shot, I pulled out our jumbo fan (which we affectionately call the "Beyonce fan") and he ran and jumped in his batman cape and just loved every minute of it. That’s what modern kids’ photo sessions are all about. Kids being kids. Kids having fun. Kids having the freedom and permission to be fully themselves. And me with a camera to document the whole thing.

Are you ready to schedule your own modern kids photo session? Make sure to reach out and contact me to talk more. I’ll be in touch shortly!

Location Highlight: Flat Fork Creek Park

As a family, one of our favorite parks to play at is Flat Fork Creek Park in Fishers, IN. While it doesn't have a playground, there is a creek that we love to stomp in, treehouses for the kids to climb up into (the older kids especially love the treehouse that has a ladder!), and a field in front of the woods FULL of beautiful bird and cricket sounds. Flat Fork Creek Park has beauty in all four seasons with the acres of woods, sweeping views, and snowy sledding hills. In the spring and summer, we usually see lots of butterflies and catch some tiny toads while walking around the meadow and field trails.

Not only is it a wonderful location for kids to play in, but it makes for amazing family photography. When I’m photographing kids, I love to be able to do so in places where I can capture kids being kids and the magic of childhood. That’s part of why I love Flat Fork Creek Park.

Six Things to Love about Flat Fork Creek Park

1. The gorgeous natural beauty, with a variety of areas — woods, creeks, fields. Beautiful rich colors in the summer and fall.

2. The sweeping views and sledding hill. While we don't have many naturally hilly areas in Indianapolis, this sledding hill immediately makes it look as though we've transported you to Kentucky or Ireland. We can also climb toward the top of the hill to capture gorgeous, wide-open skies in a unique way.

3. There are so many wooden structures and features like the Boardwalk Bridge. During a family photo session, we can also go under the bridge for more photos with the wooden architecture. Kids love exploring underneath!

4. It's an easy drive for the northeast side of Indianapolis. It’s fairly close to Castleton, Fishers, Geist, McCordsville, and Fortville areas.

5. With its huge lot, parking is a breeze.

6. There are clean bathroom facilities, drinking fountains, and cool treehouses for your kiddos to explore throughout our photoshoot.

Things to keep in mind for Family Photo Sessions at Flat Fork Creek Park

Flat Fork Creek Park effortlessly lends itself to fun, unrushed family photo sessions. If you’re thinking about scheduling a family photo session to capture real smiles and real family fun at the park, here are a few tips to consider!

Wear sensible shoes

When wandering through Flat Fork Creek Park, keep in mind that parts of the trail are not paved. While the trails are still easily accessible, the uneven terrain makes it important for shoes that stay firmly on your feet. For small kiddos, avoid flip flops so they don’t slip!

Bug spray

In the late summer, there can be a lot of mosquitos out! With the wooded areas, especially as the sun begins to set, the bugs can be pesky. I love the golden, beautiful light that happens at sunset for photos, so having bug spray or bug repellent wipes is a huge help. It can make sure everyone is still comfortable and smiling in their pictures.

Find the Right Light for the Best Photos

Because large parts of the park are in full sun, we'll want to time your photoshoot around sunrise or sunset to get that gorgeous, golden glow.

Avoid the Busiest Seasons

The park is very, VERY popular and crowded for photoshoots in October. So, if you have your heart set on boardwalk photos, aim for a morning shoot. If you (or your kiddos) aren’t morning people, let's book a different month.

If you are interested in booking a family photography session at Flat Fork Creek Park, please make sure to reach out and we will be in touch!

Abby & The Traveling Dress

If there’s one thing that makes my job as a family photographer even more rewarding than it already is, it’s how I have a chance to see a family again and again. That’s the case with the Lund family. I have loved being able to photograph them through the years as their three amazing kiddos grow. I photographed an in-home family lifestyle photography shoot for them earlier this year, but when I met up with them for family portraits at the Indianapolis Central Public Library, it was for another fun occasion: A Little Dreamers Tutus Traveling Dress Photoshoot!

Abby and the Traveling Dress

I’ve photographed a few of the Little Dreamers Tutus Traveling Dresses, and every dress has been something that little girls dream of wearing. There’s something so magical about putting on a beautiful gown like something out of a fairytale. Something about dressing up like a fairytale princess makes a little girl’s heart sing. Abby was no exception. She was in LOVE with the dress. With her long, long hair, she looked like the princess of the library.

While the photoshoot was mostly focused on the traveling dress, we took portraits of the whole family. Everyone dressed up for the occasion! Sam, the oldest, is super sweet. He showed off his flossing skills, as well as his missing teeth! He’s growing up SO fast. Little Matthew was not in love with the camera, but we still managed to squeeze out some smiles. Amanda (Mom) looked absolutely stunning in her gown, by Chiara Boni La Petite Robe, from Rent the Runway, and her purple hair lowlights were so pretty next to Abby's dress. Abby's hair bow matched the bow ties of the boys (although Matthew didn't want to wear his!).

Indianapolis Central Public Library Photography

The Central Library is a gorgeous location, a great option for taking family portraits during the cold months so you can stay warm. A permit is required, but that can be easily arranged between our staff and the library staff. There are a LOT of gorgeous nooks and crannies here, and a wide variety of architectural styles between the old, original building and the new, modern addition. I loved how the style of the photographs changed as we moved from area to area and I am so pleased at what a great backdrop it was for this family photo session.

Amanda and Stephen, thank you for continuing to trust me to photograph your family. I am so happy that I can document these moments and memories for you.

Enjoy these other Little Dreamers Tutus Traveling Dress Photo Sessions

Here are the other Traveling Dress Photo Sessions that I’ve enjoyed photographing! Each dress and each little girl truly have a style all their own.

• MJ’s Magical Woodland Photo Shoot

• Miriam’s Dreamy Library Photo Session

• Claire’s Sparkling Studio Session

Vendors for this Photo Session

Amanda's dress: by Chiara Boni La Petite Robe, from Rent the Runway

Abby & Amanda's hair: styled at The Dry Bar

Abby's dress: The Traveling Dress project from Little Dreamers Tutus

Sentimental Activities to do Before Baby Comes

Pregnancy is such a beautiful, exciting time in a woman’s life. The weeks and months before baby arrives are filled with exciting milestones. Before you know it, that sweet little bundle will be here, changing your world in all-new adorable ways.

There are so many precious moments during a pregnancy. The moment you find out you’re expecting, the reveal to friends and loved ones, the moment you find out the gender, the very first kicks and flutters as you get to know the tiny human within you… they are all so special, no matter how many children you have. In the work we do at Indy Family Photo, I get to meet a lot of wonderful expecting women. To celebrate the happiness in pregnancy, I wanted to share a few special things you can do before baby comes.

Write a Letter to Baby

One sentimental activity you can do before baby comes is write a letter! All these beautiful feelings that you are feeling, you can write down and share with your little one when they are older. Write a letter to them to share how excited you are to welcome them to the world and to your family. Hold onto it and gift it to your little one on their 10th birthday, or another important milestone! You can even include it in your baby album and it will be a wonderful keepsake for your little one to appreciate.

Celebrate the Siblings

Another special thing to do before baby comes is to throw a "big brother" or "big sister" party for your older child(ren). It’s a nice way to make sure they feel special during this time. Guests can include family members, family friends, and their own friends! Have everyone write advice on "how to be a good older sibling" on scrapbooking paper, and maybe even have them decorate it. After the party, bind the papers into a fun book!

Book a Maternity Photoshoot!

There’s no better way to celebrate your upcoming bundle of joy than scheduling a maternity photoshoot with us at the studio. Our maternity sessions can be customized to you, whether an intimate in-homes maternity session, a studio session, or a maternity session at a place of your choosing. A maternity photoshoot is as unique as you and your pregnancy, so I will work with you to style the photo session of your dreams. The best time to schedule a maternity shoot is around month seven or eight of your pregnancy. That’s the pregnancy sweet spot, when you’re glowing, but not too exhausted.

Have a Date Night

Go out on a date night while it's still just the two of you! Have fun dreaming about the days to come. Write out guesses as to what your life will be like — and what your baby will be doing — when they are 3, 6, 9, and 12 months old. Read the lists when you hit those milestones to see how wrong (or right) you really were! And… maybe grab a laugh at how soon you thought baby would be sleeping through the night ;)

Book a Newborn Session

We have so many options for newborn photography, both lifestyle newborn photography and studio newborn photography. It’s never too early to book a newborn photography session and at Indy Family Photo we make it as easy as possible for you. We know that you and your family are adjusting to a new normal, so we take time and care to make sure that your little one is safe, warm and happy all through the photo session. It’s a common misconception that you need to have a baby before you book your newborn session, so feel free to call to schedule a consultation!

The Barton Family | Cool Creek Park

In October I met up with Kelly, Brian and their two kiddos at Cool Creek Park to photograph their fall family session. I love family photo sessions at Cool Creek Park! It doesn’t even look like Indiana! It has a nature-based play area for kids that is really fun. There are stumps to climb on, hollow trees to hide in, and so many places for little ones to adventure! My favorite part of photographing kids is allowing them to truly be themselves, and photo sessions at Cool Creek Park make that so easy!

Family Photography at Cool Creek Park

It was a beautiful day when I met up with the Barton clan. I loved seeing them all interact together as a family. They have SUCH a fun dynamic, and I really thought that their family pictures captured their unique personalities.

Big sister was not warming up to the camera. I had to coax her with the promise of piggyback rides as we moved between locations. She LOVED that! They also brought their sweet pup, Heiland to the photoshoot. He had a hard time staying still until we were completely done with the photoshoot! We managed to sneak him into a few photos!

Cool Creek Park made such a fun backdrop for this photo session, with ninety acres of lush, green wilderness, four miles of wooded trails, and tons of interesting places to play. It was so much fun to take pictures down by the water. The natural elements and wooded areas made this a wonderful spot for the whole family to play.

Beautiful Family Photo Albums

To preserve these precious photo memories, Kelly chose to have us create a photo album for her. She selected a beautiful metallic color, which coordinated wonderfully with the colors of her fall photo session. For her paper, she chose a slightly shiny lustre paper, which is durable and kid-friendly! We designed the album for her here at Indy Family Photo and I am so pleased that she will be able to share these memories with her kiddos for years to come.

If you are interested in scheduling a family photo session of your own, please make sure to contact us! We love photographing families in fun locations all around the Indianapolis area!

The Nikkel Family | Fort Benjamin Harrison State Park

There’s something special about Fort Benjamin Harrison State Park in the fall. The way the leaves explode into warm colors makes it a perfect backdrop for family photography sessions. Fort Benjamin Harrison State Park has wonderful wide-open fields for kiddos to run and play in. The wildflower fields are actually most beautiful in the fall, and provided an amazing backdrop for our portrait session!

Fort Benjamin Harrison State Park Photo Session

The Nikkel family has three amazing kiddos: Grace, Norah, and Pete. Together they were such fun to photograph. They were super silly and loved playing together. Pete wanted to do EVERYTHING his sisters did. But, most of all, he loved snuggling with Mommy throughout the session. Pete gave the best hugs and the sweetest kisses.

Grace and Norah were pretty much inseparable. They had so much fun playing together between shots and location changes as we wandered through the park together. These three kids had such fun, silly energy. Part of what makes photographing families so interesting is to document that beautiful energy young kids have. It’s so awesome to see how they explore, play and experience the world at different ages. As a mother of three myself, it’s so much fun to photograph children when they are having a blast, and even better when they are having a blast TOGETHER.

An Indy Family Photo Session is all about capturing fun candid moments with real laughter, real smiles, and real emotions. If you would like to schedule your own family photo session with your children, I would love to hear from you!

Epic Holiday Cards: The Beeson Family

When you imagine an epic holiday card, what do you imagine? What goes into the kind of holiday card that gets hung on the refrigerator door for months to come? What about the holiday cards that get framed and saved for years to come? Well. Whatever it is that you imagine, the Beeson family is going to raise that bar! I loved collaborating with them to create their holiday card this year at the Indy Family Photo Studio!

Family Photography | Truly Epic Holiday Cards

Every year, the Beeson family makes it a point to create THE Christmas card to beat! Their goal is to create something truly memorable… dare I say, epic. A good holiday card should make you smile, let out a good chuckle, and get excited about the holiday season. But what makes the best holiday cards are ones that remind you of their personalities and why you love them.

For this year’s holiday card photo shoot, the Beeson family took on a fun election theme. Mom and Dad, along with the three kiddos Sophia, James and Jacob all brought their personalities and creative ideas to their photo session at the Indy Family Photo Studio! Dad is an ER surgeon, so we tied that into his campaign slogan. We did some research for James’ campaign promises. We found out that there is such a thing as a state beverage…. Apparently, Indiana’s is water?! Milk is clearly a better choice, so James has my vote. Sophia was going for a Ruth Bader Ginsberg vibe, so she donned a smart pantsuit and every political and Christmas brooch she could find! I loved how everyone’s wit and humor was evident in their portraits.

When the finished products arrived, their holiday card order weighed in at a whopping 17.7 pounds!!! They really went all the way, decking out the holiday cards with every last detail: from gold envelope liners to (of course) American flag stamps.

Thank you very much to the Beeson family for including me in your holiday fun. I loved photographing you for this truly amazing holiday card, and I can’t wait to see what you think up for next year!

A Special 'Thank You' to Our Families this Holiday Season

As we look back on the year, it's a time to reflect on what really matters. To us at Indy Family Photo, it's family — and preserving those memories and celebrating those relationships.

Thank You — From All of Us at Indy Family Photo

We are so grateful that you’ve given us the opportunity to meet each and every one of you. We’ve had a blast documenting your children’s unique and beautiful personalities! Getting the chance to deliver heirloom art that will be enjoyed for years to come by your families has been a lifelong dream of ours, and we feel truly blessed every day that we get to make that dream come true!

Our main hope is that every time you look back at the photos we’ve created with you, you can relive those moments and memories all over again. That’s what makes it all worthwhile.

So from the bottom of our hearts, we wanted to thank all of you for allowing us to celebrate family with you this past year.

And as we head into 2020, we’re so excited for all of the new wonderful and beautiful memories we plan on helping to create over the next year.

We’d like to wish everyone a happy holiday as 2019 comes to a close — and what a fantastic year it has been! We hope everyone can spend the end of December enjoying the company of family and we can’t wait to see what the future holds in 2020!

Here are some of our favorite photos from the past year!

Greene Family | Geist Park Family Portraits

It was a gorgeous late October day when I got to meet up with the Greene family for an extended family portrait session. It is such a feat to get an extended family portrait session together, so I was so impressed with Christina. She pulled this family session together for her siblings, their parents, HER parents and all the grandkids! It was so much fun to be their photographer!

Extended Family Photography

For this extended family session, we decided to stay close, taking pictures in their Hamilton County neighborhood and nearby Geist Park. Geist Park is such a great location for family photos. With 17 acres of wetlands, nature trails and prairies, there are plenty of backdrops for photos and plenty of wide-open spaces for kiddos to run!

The adults had practiced with the kids on what to do when a camera showed up, so they were all enthusiastic smiles! We were able to knock out all the “must-have” groupings within 15 minutes. With a big group like this, it was important to stay organized to make sure that I had all the pictures of Christina and her family, her siblings, and of course… the grandparents (Mammaw and Pappaw) with their sweet grandchildren: Jackson, Ryder, Calvin and Cora.

I loved getting to see the generations as they interacted together. I could definitely see the family resemblance, especially when I got Christina together with her siblings and parents. It was so wonderful to be able to have the whole family together like this, laughing and smiling together.

Once we had all the “must-have” formal family portraits… everyone relaxed. It was time for some fun photos with lots of interaction! All the personalities really came out—especially with the kids. Cora, however, was NOT terribly excited toward the end of the portrait session. She had everyone laughing as she stomped off, hands on hips and full of attitude, during the middle of her solo shots.

Keepsake Family Photo Albums

After the portrait session, Christina and her siblings purchased a gorgeous album for Mammaw and Pappaw. That way, they can keep and enjoy these photos and memories with the kiddos every time they visit. They also purchased a large piece of wall art capturing the entire family for them to enjoy on their wall every day. It makes me so happy when my clients print out their photos so they can see and appreciate them every day!

All in all, this was an exciting extended family portrait session with lots of love, silliness, and hugs between everyone. Thank you so much, Christina for arranging this and for asking me to be your family photographer!

Why Printed Photos Make Amazing Holiday Gifts

Now that December has arrived, people everywhere start thinking about the holidays. Christmas will be here before we know it! One of the best gifts for the holidays is the gift of printed photos. It’s one of the most heartfelt gifts for the holidays because it is a gift of love, laughter and memory. The best way to celebrate your family photos is to hang them on your wall, where you will see them and enjoy them every single day. Why not share that joy? When you give the gift of printed photos, you are sharing a moment in time. Here are a few reasons why printed photos make amazing holiday gifts.

Reasons Why Printed Photos Make Amazing Holiday Gifts

Everyone loves a photo of their loved ones — you can’t go wrong! Parents and grandparents especially can never get enough photos of their kids and grandkids. Children grow so quickly, and photographs are a way to capture the magic and joy of childhood. When you print out your family photos, you can enjoy that memory every day!

While toys, clothes and other material items are fun, photos celebrate what the holidays are truly about — family. The gift of printed photos will be enjoyed for so much longer than a gift card to a favorite restaurant or store. A printed and nicely framed photograph will be treasured for years to come.

Are you looking for something more experience-based? Photo albums are a great way to enjoy your favorite memories over and over again. Every time you snuggle together to look through the images, you’ll relive and remember the fun you had together as a family. This is such a wonderful way to remind children of their place in the family. Looking at family photos together in a photo album can help to show children that they are a part of the family. It can help them know they belong. Child psychologist David Krauss says in a study titled Phototherapy in Mental Health: “I think it is really important to show a family as a family unit. It is so helpful for children to see themselves as a valued and important part of that family unit.” Seeing themselves with their family in a moment when they are loved and happy is so valuable to a child! Even small children can appreciate looking at photographs and reviewing faces of loved ones who are far away. Don’t underestimate the power of printed photos and the happiness they bring.

Full-Service Family Photography

Indy Family Photo is a full-service photography studio, meaning we won’t leave you hanging to figure this all out on your own! We can help you print photos you already have, or, purchase a session as a gift for your loved ones this holiday season. We’ll complete your portraits with albums, wall art, or any other display items you might desire.

Every time I go visit my parents, one of my favorite things to do is pull out the old family photo albums. Our kids are one of the most photographed generations — let’s make sure those photos are around for them to enjoy when they grow up and have left to start off on their own lives!

If you are interested in a printed photo consultation or if you’d like to book a photo session as a gift, please make sure to contact me or drop on into the Indy Family Photo Studio to say hello!

6 Reasons to Move Your Family Portraits Inside Your Own Home

While I adore photographing at the beautiful Indy Family Photo Studio, I love when families schedule portrait sessions inside their own homes. When I look back through family photo albums, I am always the most struck by images taken in and around the houses I grew up in. There aren't very many of these photos, which makes them all the more important.

The Beauty of In-Home Family Portraits

You see… those trips we took to state parks, mountains, museums, etc. — they were all important. But playing in my house with brother and sister and parents — THOSE are the memories and moments that make me who I am today. I only have a few memories of the first houses I was in — the brown house with the beautiful deck, the gray house with the treehouse, and the armchair that I loved in all of them. But looking at photos from those times helps fill in other moments of my childhood.

It may be cliché, but home truly is where the heart is. I love when I can photograph my client sessions in their own homes. With that in mind, I wanted to share six reasons why you should consider moving your family portrait session inside your home!

Reasons to Move your Family Portrait Session to your home

1. The comfort of their own home

When I meet you in your home, you have a home-field advantage. Right away, everyone is more comfortable. There’s no need to get used to the studio! Your children are in their space. Since they are already comfortable and at ease, their natural expressions and characteristics can shine.

2. Eliminate Weather Worries

With an in-home family photoshoot, we don’t need to worry about weather! And, even if the weather is “good enough” for an outdoor photoshoot, we’d still have to deal with wind, bugs, runny noses, wet shoes, and too much sun — all factors that can pose a challenge. Having a family portrait session in your home means that we can control those natural factors.

3. Take a Moment to Slow Down

If your little ones need to take a moment for themselves, it’s easier for you AND the kids — your children can feel safe, but also be able to easily grab a snack, go snuggle in their bed (or yours!), have a bottle, change outfits, or throw a tantrum — or anything else! — without the stress of everything being public

4. Cherish the Memories of Home

You’ve taken so much time and care to build your house into a loving and beautiful place. Your home should be celebrated! Within those walls, precious memories are built. Plus, you’ve spent time and money decorating your home as well! Capturing your home in a family photo session allows you to truly celebrate and document the home you love.

5. Create Priceless Family Heirlooms

Your children will LOVE these photos when they’re older! Most of us only have traditional family portraits, photos taken outside, or vacation/event photos. Professionally photographing your children in your home gives them beautiful photos to look back on when they are older, and even to share with their own children and grandchildren. Memories of the homes we grow up in can fade over the years, so having professional portraits can preserve those memories. When printed out, those memories become heirlooms.

6. Capture the Magic of Childhood

We’ll capture playtime. Here at Indy Family Photo, we firmly believe in the importance of the magic of childhood, which includes LOTS of make-believe play. One day, your children won’t engage in pretending anymore — and we want to make sure we’ve captured that magical time before it slips away.

Family Portrait Photography in your home

As a child and family photographer, I realized that children act differently around a camera when I'm in "their territory" — their home, their play-space, and their rooms. They are more comfortable, at ease and confident. They slip into their natural personalities more easily. They show me their REAL smiles and expressions more quickly. They show me who they really are. And really, that is what us parents truly want documented. Real emotions. Real smiles. Real moments. Not cheesy, fake grins and forced poses. Having a family portrait session in your home makes it easy to do.

To learn more about scheduling an in-home family portrait session, make sure to contact us! I would love to hear from you and to get to know your family!

The Nemeth Family Portraits | The War Memorial in Downtown Indianapolis

One of the most precious things about a photograph is how it captures a moment in time. When families choose me to be their photographer, I can stop time for them—even just for a moment. I am so happy to be able to share these photos from my latest session with the Nemeth family. It was such a pleasure to be able to capture this special family portrait session for them at the War Memorial in downtown Indianapolis.

War Memorial Family Portrait Session

This beautiful family of five met up with me at the War Memorial for this portrait session. The War Memorial was a special location for Mom (Nicole) and Dad (Peter). They had a number of their wedding portraits taken here ten years ago. But now, in honor of their ten-year anniversary, they returned to the War Memorial with their three beautiful children: Elizabeth, Victoria, and Jude.

For their portrait session, everyone got dressed up. Peter and Jude wore outfits from a recent wedding. I was able to provide Dollcake gowns from for Elizabeth and Victoria from Darling Loves to match Mom!

We took some more formal family portraits, but I made sure to capture lots of other images so everyone could show their silly and unique personalities. The girls LOVED twirling in their dresses! All the girls had their hair done for the photoshoot, and they looked amazing. Jude loved showing off his BIG personality and "I'm the king" emotions when we were up on the monument bench. Victoria kept exclaiming "now take a photo of JUST ME, because I'M A MODEL", and would drape herself dramatically over the closest piece of architecture. Each of these three kids had such big, beautiful personalities. It was so much fun to photograph them!

Traditionally, an October photoshoot has crisp, cool fall weather to go along with it. But the weather for this family portrait session was unseasonably warm. It even broke some records! It was in the 90s with high humidity—even at 7pm! It was definitely not what autumn in Indiana feels like! Soon after we finished our photos, a storm rolled through!

Thank you so much to the Nemeth family! I am so happy I was able to capture this moment in time for you, especially at a place that held such importance to you and your family!