I went to a workshop with Yan on Maui and we did a family session there. I love how she inspires me to be my best self and not try to be like anyone else. This was my third workshop with her. First was in L.A and then two on Maui.
For many workshops, the instructor sets everything up and we each get .5 seconds to take photos without learning much about how to replicate it. This was free. We’d all worked with Yan before and she trusted us to do what she’d taught us to; trust how we see a family and their story and shoot that. A gorgeous family, a big backyard full of animals and 4 children that we just went and took photos as we saw fit.
Some of my favorite sessions are in client’s homes because I love to tell stories in photos, where we live. We are more free, more open, and kids are more comfortable. I can easily see the truth of a family in their home which is what I’m always searching for in sessions. These type of sessions are more for albums than one photo plastered on the wall. I want kids to flip through pages and see their childhood, as it really felt, and not some perfect looking mirage. Practicing this without the pressure of money made me so much more confident and comfortable in what I see and how I shoot that story.
Because the majority of my clients are tourists, I don’t get to practice this as often as I want. So often as photographers we see each other’s work and start doubting ourselves. Everyone else seems to do a better job at this or that. But when I slow down, trust myself and shoot what my gut sees, I love my work so much more.
We all love photos of everyone smiling and looking at the camera, even me. But I want more than just that. I want to give you more than that because I feel that means the most when looking back. If you’re looking for this type of session, let’s do it! It’s fun! Your kids will love me. And we’ll tell the beautiful, imperfect, glorious story of your family and how you are right now.
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