Planning Family Pictures With What You Already Have

Ashley Newman Photography

We awoke to a rainy forecast out of nowhere- thanks Texas- and as I drove to our location, it was clear I was taking us straight into the path of the storm. A quick detour put us in the woods…where despite the humidity, some bugs and a few sprinkles, magic happened. These are the types of sessions that show the true heart of a family. Where we snuggle, love and share in ways that cannot be scripted or posed. We picked flowers and slowly each child opened up. I’m so thankful for families who embrace the chaos of raising littles, and who open up to things as they come. That is when the best comes out. <3 There is no greater adventure.

When mama got the pictures back, she said:

Just love the facets of their personalities that shine through… – a little seriousness from Liam, mischievousness of Miles, and Sybil in the middle making a face about all she has to put up with.
I rarely sit with him like this but seeing this image reminds me that he will always be my baby and he loves these moments as much as I do. I should cuddle with him more (while he lets me!).

I mean, how can you not adore these kiddos?

We put together this simple look with things the family already owned in their closet! No one needed to buy a single thing and this mini was a complete success!

Wanna know how they pulled it off?

• Focus on neutrals
  Mama found neutral items of clothing with simple designs (no patterns, no logos) for her children. It paid off, because everything coordinated but didn’t match.

• A pop of color
  Shirley wasn’t sure what to wear for herself and really debated hard. I love a flowing skirt of an awesome maxi dress, but that just isn’t her jam. So we went with an outfit that made her feel comfortable but added a special pop of color to their pictures.

• Vision and plan
  After going through her closets, she laid out all the choices so she could visually see them. It helps to bring to life what it will look like when you can see it all together. Try a large floor area or even just your bed.

  It really can be THAT simple!

It’s fun to go out and buy new outfits (mama, I always push for you to treat yourself to something that makes you feel pretty- get your outfit together first!), but you don’t have to!

Check out all the giggles and fun we had together during their session!