dads snuggling with two kids on the sofa from a in-home family photo session in san francisco

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Tips for a Magical Family Photo Session in San Francisco

November 5, 2022

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The two most popular questions I get about family photo sessions are:
-What’s the secret behind an AMAZING photo session?
-What should we be doing during a photo session?

Honestly, the answer to both questions is the same: Just be yourself! I know this deceivingly simple answer can stir up a gamut of insecurities when it comes to meeting a stranger (especially someone wielding a big, clunky camera) for the first time or even inviting them into your home (Gulp!). Still, nothing is more beautiful and authentic than being YOU.

And do you want to know the secret sauce for transforming your photos from meh to stellar? It’s my pre-session questionnaire. Whether it’s a family photo session at home or on location, this little piece of magic will tell me what makes your heart skip a beat, guiding what we will do during our time together.

For this family, the heart of their home is at the piano. And at 4 years old, this is where you’ll find little G feeling the vibrations of the music and rhythmic tap of his Papa’s foot at the pedals with his younger sister (AKA his #1 fan) within reach, cooing in the background. It’s also remembering the high-octane energy of a silly and wacky toddler, the big smiles and giggles of his little sister, and all the snuggles woven in between.

This is what a documentary-style family photo session is all about, and I’m here to celebrate you in all seasons of your life.

About Me

Real life is more than pretty pictures.
The beauty is in the journey, and it's absolutely
worth documenting all of it. 

I’m captivated by people and always have been; my B.S. is in anthropology. Early on, I appointed myself the family documentarian, carefully recording milestones and travels and learning along the way how much I love visual storytelling. I picked up my first professional camera when my daughter was born, knowing those early years with her were precious and full of changes. A photographer friend’s encouragement soon led me to make photography my career. Today, after many years and proud accomplishments, my passion for it only grows.

I can’t imagine doing anything else.       

WORK WITH ME

©Carmen dunham 2024

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