As a Potomac family photographer, it is such a gift to capture every stage of your family milestones. Every new addition, every birthday, even every year. This was my third session with this beautiful family! I have loved watching their family grow over the years and we had so much fun during this mini session capturing their joyful spirit and so many laughs (in between snacks, of course!).

Their Rockville family photo session took place on the cloudiest fall day at one of my favorite locations! Most photographers far prefer bright and sunny sunsets, but I am also partial to a midday cloudy day. The clouds diffuse the light in the most stunning way, creating creamy skin tones and colors. I definitely have a soft spot in my heart for cloudy days! And photographers, if you are reading this and struggling to shoot on cloudy days, the key is to make sure your subjects are facing the right way and using the light to your advantage. Reflectors can be your best friend, but truthfully I usually don’t need them and just make sure there are no harsh shadows on my client’s faces. The perfect light is there, even on cloudy days!

Tips and Tricks

Look at those smiles! As a Potomac family photographer, I have many tricks up my sleeve to make sessions with young kids go smoothly. From frequent breaks to embarrassing myself by singing your little one’s favorite song, we can essentially always make magic happen! Also, I have one big tip for parents during sessions! It was not actually needed during this session at all since these kiddos were on board to be little models for the day. If your little ones are acting up, stay as calm as possible. They feed off of your energy and if you are stressed they will be too!

Alexia Ballantine Photography is a portrait photographer serving Washington, DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia and specializing in maternity, baby, and family photography. Reach out today to inquire about your session!