Home for the Holidays: Why Holiday Family Photos Are the Good Stuff

Holiday family photos aren’t just about getting everyone dressed up and smiling for the camera; they’re about pausing time, just for a moment. They’re about slowing down, remembering what life looks & feels like right now, whether that involves sticky fingers in the kitchen or a full house with grown kids back under one roof.

The holiday family photos you’ll actually remember

One of my favorite childhood memories is making Christmas cookies. My mom would make the batter ahead of time and then we’d gather around our kitchen counter and take turns spreading out the dough, cutting our favorite shapes, and putting them helter-skelter on the cookie sheets. It was messy, fun, probably at least partially stressful for my mom, and we looked forward to it every year.

Fast forward 30+ years and I’m doing the same thing with my own kids, except around our dining room table because the kitchen doesn’t photograph very well. 😉 

These photos instantly transport me back to that moment. The sticky fingers, the frosting everywhere, the mess of it all (I know it doesn’t look that messy but that’s the miracle of a good photographer and a blank wall 😉)...this was life three years ago and I can’t believe how quickly the time has flown!

Savor the little moments

Someday oh so soon these little ones will be driving themselves home for the holidays (cue the tears! Maybe yours are already here?). I’ll take photos then, too, anxious to freeze time that just won’t slow down before our home changes again (and again and again).

These little moments? I want to help you remember them, too. Because one day you and I, we’ll look back and realize, this was the good stuff. The quiet (or crazy!) moments, the sticky fingers, the little ones growing into adults right before our very eyes. 

bet you didn’t notice that laundry on the couch

What a “Home for the Holidays” Session looks like

My “Home for the Holidays” sessions are relaxed, two-hour experiences in your home or a favorite place. They’re designed to pause time for a bit and document your family as you really are, right now. 

Whether you’re…

• baking cookies

• picking out or decorating a tree

• playing board games, or 

• Gathering everyone together for a cozy night in

…these photos will help you savor this season for a lifetime.

You don’t need a picture-perfect home or matching pajamas — just your people, your favorite traditions, and a willingness to be yourselves.

Booking details

Each two-hour session includes:

• a quick phone check-in ahead of time to discuss your goals and plan for the session

• the session itself

• the choice of one of three photo & print packages. See package options on my Family Session Pricing & Packages page.

I’m only booking five “Home for the Holidays” family photo sessions between now and New Year’s. If you’ve been thinking about booking holiday family photos in New Hampshire, this is the time.

Final thoughts

Home is always changing. Kids grow up. Traditions evolve. Over time, the table looks a little different.

But the love, laughter, and stories that fill it? Those are worth savoring and remembering.

That’s what holiday family photos are truly about — keeping those fleeting, beautiful moments close long after the season has passed.

FAQ: “Home for the Holidays” Family Photo Sessions

What should we wear for holiday family photos?
You’re at home, so choose outfits that feel like you in this season! It can help to select colors that go with your holiday décor (if you have it up) or your home décor, but really, be yourself and think about how you want to be remembered in this season. I’m always available for outfit guidance; send me some photos and I’ll give you feedback!

Where do holiday family photos take place?
Usually at home or a location that’s meaningful to you — somewhere you can relax and be yourselves.

Do you still take posed photos?
Yes. Most sessions include a mix of candid storytelling and a few gently posed shots for framing and gifting.

Do these sessions work for families with teens or kids in college?
Most definitely, yes! We may design the session around a different activity - maybe a game night or everyone cooking together or going out to cut a Christmas tree - but these holiday family sessions absolutely ideal for families with teens or kids in college! It’s never too late to document your favorite holiday traditions together.

Why authentic family photos feel better than perfect ones

What comes to mind when you think of family photos?

If you’ve ever had them done before, you know the mix of excitement (and stress) that comes with it. Planning outfits, realizing your kid’s pants suddenly don’t fit, trying to convince everyone to smile… it can be a lot.

The truth? We often put pressure on ourselves because we want our photos to look perfect. We want to show our best selves, to have proof that we’re doing this “family” thing right. Maybe even to feel like we’re keeping up with everyone else’s beautiful photos online.

But what if family photos didn’t have to be a performance?

What if your session could feel relaxed — more like spending time together than posing for a camera?

What if you could end up with photos that tell your authentic story, not just your most polished moments?

What Are Authentic Family Photos?

Authentic family photos focus on connection over perfection. They capture the real moments — your kids being silly, the way your partner looks at you when you laugh, the small gestures that show love in your everyday life.

Instead of forcing smiles or matching outfits, authentic sessions are built around what feels natural: baking cookies together, exploring a favorite trail, or gathering for a cozy Friday night dinner.

Why Authentic Family Photos Matter

These images become more than portraits — they’re stories of who you are right now.
They remind you of your rhythm, your love, and the way your family truly interacts.

Years from now, you won’t care if everyone looked perfect — you’ll care that the photos feel like you.

How to Create a Relaxed, Real Family Photo Session

1. Choose a setting that feels like home.
   It might literally be home, or a spot your family already loves.

2. Plan an activity you enjoy together.
   The focus stays on connection, not posing.

3. Let go of perfection.
   The “imperfect” moments are often the most beautiful.

Ready to Tell Your Family’s Story?

It’s time to move away from stiff, forced photos and start capturing your family’s real, meaningful moments.

Let’s create authentic family photos that feel like you — full of connection, laughter, and life. Find package info here and read more about why doing them at home is so much better here!

FAQ: Authentic Family Photos

What should we wear for authentic family photos?
Choose outfits that make you feel comfortable and confident — coordinated but not matching. Neutrals and textures photograph beautifully.

Where do authentic family sessions take place?
Usually at home or a location that’s meaningful to you — somewhere you can relax and be yourselves.

Do you still take posed photos?
Yes. Most sessions include a mix of candid storytelling and a few gently posed shots for framing and gifting.

Why your next family photo session should be at home

Family photos are more than just your annual holiday card photo (you know the one I’m talking about!) —they are visual stories that capture the heart and soul of your family's unique connection and personality. While traditional studio or outdoor sessions have their charm, there's something profoundly intimate and authentic about photographing your family right where life happens: at home.​ As a Southern NH family photographer, I’ve seen the benefits of creating family photos in the comfort of your home. Here are my top five:

Why Choose an At-Home Family Photo Session?

1. Comfort in Familiar Surroundings

Home is likely where your family feels most at ease. Children can play with their favorite toys, pets can roam freely, and everyone can relax without the pressures of unfamiliar settings. This comfort leads to more genuine expressions and interactions, resulting in photos that truly reflect your family's personality.​

2. Authentic Storytelling

Your home is a collection of memories unique to you—every room holds stories, from bedtime routines to cooking dinner around the kitchen counter to spontaneous dance parties in the living room. Capturing your family in these everyday moments provides a rich, authentic narrative that studio backdrops or even a pretty outdoor setting simply can't replicate.​

3. Flexibility and Convenience

Coordinating outfits, packing snacks, and ensuring everyone is on time, well-rested, and in a good mood can be stressful. An in-home session eliminates much of this hassle. Everything you need is within reach, and there's no need to worry about weather disruptions, travel logistics, or hangry kiddos (or partners 😉).

4. Inclusion of Beloved Pets

Pets are cherished family members, and at-home sessions make it easier to include them. Whether it's your dog lounging on the couch or your cat curiously observing the goings-on, these moments add depth and warmth to your family portraits.​

5. Timeless Memories in a Personal Setting

Photographs taken in your home serve as a time capsule, preserving not just your family's appearance but also the environment where countless memories are made. Years from now, these images will evoke the sights, sounds, and feelings of your family's daily life.​ You’ll be so grateful you took the time to make them happen!

Embrace the Beauty of Home

Choosing to have your family photographed at home is an invitation to celebrate the real, unscripted moments that define your life together. It's about capturing the laughter in the kitchen, the quiet storytimes, and the playful chaos that makes your family uniquely yours.​ It’s about choosing ease over stress and embracing the moment your family is in right now.

Your family story is unique; you deserve beautiful, high-quality photos that tell that story! Reach out today to explore your session.

How to find a senior photo photographer

Do a quick Google search and you’ll find a ton of great senior photo photographers out there; finding the right one for your senior photos can be overwhelming! Here are my top tips for finding the best fit

Consider the style & vibe you want for your senior photos

Every photographer has their own style and approach to photography. Some do very traditional photos in a studio or carefully-curated outdoor space, others take more of a storytelling approach, and there’s everything in between. What do you want in your photos? Are you looking for something formal, highly polished, and traditional? Something unique and different? Soft, artistic lighting and natural poses? Something more straightforward? Think about what you want your photos to look like (Pinterest is a great place to start!) and then start looking for a photographer.

Review photographers’ portfolios

As you’re looking for senior photo photographers, check out their portfolios or online examples of their work. What do you love about their photos? Do you see yourself in them? How do they make you feel? What don’t you love about their photos? Remember that a portfolio typically shows the photographer’s best work, so it’s important to make sure you like their work! On the whole, do you love what you see? If so, it’s time to book! If not, keep looking. (pssst - my portfolio is in these blog posts!)

Consider your session goals

What’s going to help make your session amazing? Do you need wardrobe, hair, and makeup support? Want to include family members or do a buddy session with your bestie? Have a super-special location you want to be photographed in, that might not be nearby? Find out what potential senior photographers offer, or ask when you set up an inquiry call. Some photographers include things like this in their session fees, and some charge extra for it. See my session information here.

Find a photographer you connect with!

Creating real, authentic images to mark your senior year starts with how well you relate to your photographer. If they can put you at ease, you’ll be more relaxed in your session and able to get those beautiful images you’re looking for! How do you know if you’ll connect with a potential photographer? Hop on the phone, check out their social media page, and ask around!

Consider your budget

Senior photos are a celebration and an investment. Think about what you’re looking for and how much you’d like to spend, and then use that to narrow down your research. Don’t forget to find out whether the session fee includes digitals and/or prints after the session and, if not, what their product prices and retouching fees are. You can view my pricing & packages here.

Find out if we’re a good fit! Set up a call today. 👇🏻

What to Wear for Senior Photos

Your senior photos are all about you! What you wear can boost your confidence and comfort level in the session, and help show your personality. But don’t worry, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming! Here are a few kinds of outfits to consider when you’re planning what to wear to your senior session. Pro tip: start with the one you’re most excited about and build from there!

The Classics: Timeless looks you’ll always love!

First up on the blog: the classics. Think timeless, not trendy. Neutral tones, simple patterns or mostly-solid colors, denim, button-downs, you get the idea. Classics work with a variety of backgrounds and lighting, drawing more of the attention to your face because they’re simple in nature. For your classic outfit, avoid busy patterns that distract. If you want to create some visual interest without distracting, consider pairing a solid color top or dress with a jacket, vest, or cardigan. Here are some examples!

Personal Touches: Outfits that feel like you.

Your senior photos should feel personal and true to who you are, so don’t be afraid to include pieces that tell your story! Whether it’s your favorite color (it’s ok if it’s black!), a signature jacket or favorite sweater, meaningful jewelry, or something that shows off your passions, these details make your photos feel genuine and uniquely yours. Think of it as your everyday style, just a little elevated, so when you look back, you’ll see yourself in every frame.

Statement pieces: Have some fun!

A statement piece is that one item that instantly grabs attention and sets the tone for your whole look. Maybe it’s a bold patterned dress, a sharp blazer, a standout pair of shoes, or even an eye-catching accessory like a wide-brim hat, layered necklaces, or a prop like an instrument or sports gear. The beauty of a statement piece is that it lets your personality shine front and center, while keeping the rest of your outfit simple and complementary. It’s a fun way to express your style without overcomplicating things — just one piece that says, this is me.

Bonus: Pro tips for a great outfit plan

Planning your senior photo outfits doesn’t have to be hard. If these categories aren’t helpful, start with your three favorite outfits and build from there! At the end of the day, these are the most important things to keep in mind:

• Whatever you wear, make sure you can move easily and it feels good. If you’re comfortable, it will show in your photos!

• Bring backups. Sometimes the weather changes, you change your mind, or the setting just needs a different vibe.

• Don’t forget to plan your shoes, too! We’ll get them in some full-length shots.

• Try outfits on beforehand, snap a few phone pics, and share with a friend. It helps to have a second set of eyes!

• Feeling overwhelmed? I’ve got you. I can help you decide between outfits, walk you through how to get ideas, and whatever else you need to feel ready and excited about your session.

Ready to start planning your senior session? Let’s go! 👇🏻

Best Senior Photo Locations for Hollis & Brookline Seniors

From wide open fields to flower farms to the woods, Hollis & Brookline have all sorts of beautiful locations for your senior session! But first, a few thoughts:

Why does the location matter for senior photos?

Location is everything when it comes to the look and feel you’re going for with your senior photo session! If you want that glowy-hazy look, you’re going to need to be out in an open area. Love the classic Hollis barn look? I know a few good spots (see below!). Spend most of your time at school playing sports? We’ll definitely want to plan some time at Hollis-Brookline High School. Prefer the peace and quiet of the woods? I’ve got spots for that, too.

Best locations for Hollis & Brookline Senior Sessions

Woodmont Farm

Woodmont is great for that classic, Hollis-is-a-farming-town vibe, but also for stunning fields, that gorgeous glowy-hazy light, and lots of visual interest. Need some evidence? Check out Cam’s session below, all photographed at Woodmont!

Beaver Brook

I mean, obviously. This really should have been number one, because it offers SO much variety, but hey, we can’t all be perfect. Beaver Brook offers SO much variety - pretty flowers, gorgeous golden hour light, benches, barns, fences, pergolas - even though it’s a popular spot, there are so many ways to make it unique to you. Check out these highlights from the Class of 2025!

Monson Village & Federal Hill Trails

This is my super-secret spot (shhhh!), perfect for wildflowers, peace & quiet, and pretty late-afternoon light. Monson Village also offers a big open field for more of that golden-hazy light, plus fun stone walls and old buildings. There are tons of possibilities here! Check out Audrey’s session below for a sneak peek.

Local flower farms

Hollis, Brookline, and the surrounding towns offer a few great options for flower farms, if you want a more cultivated flower look in your senior session (bonus: plan a PYO session right before or after at the farm and bring home a stunning bouquet of flowers!). Lull and Brookdale Farms have beautiful sunflowers, and Gardent Farm in Milford offers endless possibilities (this one is an add-on due to the cost to reserve the space, but it’s worth it!). Check out Genna & Ava’s sessions below.

The possibilities are endless

Need more ideas than the usual go-tos for Hollis-Brookline senior photo sessions? Here are a few other ideas:

• Your home: Maybe your room is a special place and you want to remember it (seriously!). Or you love your backyard or that orchard around the corner or want your family in your photos…whatever it is, I’m game!

• Your favorite coffee shop: Can’t get enough of Union Coffee Shop in Milford? Or Riverwalk in Nashua? Or Buckleys’? Mix it up and get unique!

• The beach: I am 100% always down to haul out to the ocean, whether it’s your favorite spot on the NH or ME coast, or down the Cape (I have some gorgeous spots in Eastham!). This is also an add-on due to the extra travel time, but again, #worthit.

• City vibes: ready to break out of the small-town mold and go for some city vibes? We can do local-to-NH cities and head to Nashua or Manchester, or if you’re feeling really adventurous, Boston is another great option.

• Wherever you feel most like yourself: At the end of the day, your session is all about telling your story, so wherever you feel most at home, most like yourself, most like the amazing adult you’re becoming, that’s where we should do your session!

Ready to start planning your senior session, Hollis-Brookline seniors? Let’s go! 👇🏻

Class of 2026: It’s Senior Photo time!

Class of 2026, it’s your time! Senior photo season is rapidly approaching, and if you want your photos done your way, in a way that’s uniquely you, it’s time to start planning!

How to get the best senior photos

TL;DR: for the best senior photos in Southern NH, hire me! ;)

Whether you’re hiring a photographer or not, here are some tips for having the best senior photo session:

• Think about how you want to remember this time. What’s important to you heading into your senior year of high school? What’s your personality like? What kinds of things do you enjoy doing? How do you want to remember this milestone?

• Think about the places you love. Is there a particular location that is central to your story? Maybe it’s the high school, maybe a special hiking spot, maybe your dance studio; where are the important places (and people!) in your life and how could you incorporate them into your senior photo session?

• Find a photographer. Maybe you work with me, maybe you work with someone else, maybe you get a friend to photograph you, but here’s a tip: Google “unique senior photos” and notice, what style of photos are you drawn to? Are they bright and colorful? Golden-hour hazy? A little dark & moody? Look for a photographer with images like the ones you already love, whether it’s your friend, uncle, or a professional.

Class of 2026: photos that tell your story

Your story is unique; you deserve beautiful, high-quality photos that tell that story! Reach out today to explore a session.

Not your average family reunion photos

Family reunions are a uniquely beautiful opportunity for photos: not only do you have everyone gathering in one place, but they are full of joyful connection, reflection, and fun that are delightful to photograph.

Late in 2023, I had the opportunity of photographing the families connected with Robinwood Farm in Pepperell, MA. They were celebrating the farm’s 100th anniversary with a poignant, joyful family gathering and I was delighted to be there, not just to photograph the event, but to revel in the beauty and wonder that is multiple generations coming together to celebrate the past and look forward to the future.

I’ve talked about the uniqueness and joy of telling your story elsewhere on the blog; this was a classic example of a unique story! The gathering was centered around a beautiful time capsule ceremony, where family members took turns sharing meaningful memories, tokens, and hopes for the future, and stored them in a special spot on the farm. I got to be a fly on the wall and document the laughter, the tears, the connection - it was beautiful.

How to get the best family reunion photos

TL;DR: for the best family reunion photos, hire a storytelling photographer, like me! ;)

Whether you’re hiring a photographer or not, here are some tips to the best family reunion photos:

• Plan a few simple group activities. Being engaged in an activity helps people relax and enjoy being together, which makes for great photos. Plan a mix of large-group activities and smaller-group activities, like the hayride some family members enjoyed at Robinwood’s celebration.

• Designate a photographer. If you’re not hiring a photographer, designate 1 or 2 family members to take photos and ask the rest to put their phones/cameras away! Pick 2 so that both family members can be in at least some photos.

• Think about what matters ahead of time. What’s the story behind your gathering? Is it an anniversary, a birthday, a just-because? What do you want to remember about the time together? What moments or places or buildings or specific people do you want to make sure are in the story?

• Give the gift of presence: hire a photographer! You had to know it was coming to this. ;) Give everyone the gift of being present in the moment and hire a photographer to be the fly on the wall, photographing those key moments and guiding you through the best ways to preserve them after the event.

What to do with the photos after the reunion

Family reunions are a special time - don’t let your memories of the time together disappear into the noise of digital life! The best way to remember & honor your time together is by bringing your digital photos to life in an album or printed product. Nothing beats the feeling of flipping through old photos, remembering the quirks and personalities of the different family members, or the story of what happened when you were gathered together.

(Forgive the quality of the handheld, iPhone video below - the polished photos I took of the album got lost in the shuffle of family illness this winter, but I had to at least give you an idea of what it looked like!)

Short video showing the embossed, linen, heirloom-quality album made with these photos.

Family reunion photos that tell your story

Your family story is unique; you deserve beautiful, high-quality photos that tell that story! Reach out today to explore your session.

Client feature: Colleen Graham

This blog is part of a series of client features by Lynnae Day Photography. For the full series, see ‘Featured Clients'.

Colleen Graham of Colleen Graham Art in Concord, NH.

Every business has a story to tell. It's yours, it's unique, and it deserves a unique experience. Here is Colleen’s!

Colleen found me through a referral from Millyard Studios (thanks, Jodi!) and was instantly a favorite client! An artist based out of Concord, NH, Colleen explores life, grief, emotion, and story through vibrant, abstract paintings. I loved photographing her on-site, in her own studio space.

Check out Colleen’s work on Instagram, and look for upcoming shows she’ll be doing in the area!

It's time to tell your unique story. 

Book a discovery call now!

How do I make my family photos unique?

I get this question never (lol), but it popped up in a recent Google search and I decided to write about it!

I’ve talked about the uniqueness and joy of telling your story earlier on the blog (and there’s a great example there of a creative photo session), but maybe you’re like me and need a few more concrete ideas to kick off your creativity. Before we get to the specifics, though, start here:

Ask yourself a few questions

I’m a big fan of self-reflection - part of brainstorming a unique family session is considering what makes your family unique! - but if you’d rather just jump to the concrete suggestions, skip down to the next section.

Here are a few questions you can ask yourself to get started:

• What do you and your family love to do when you have down time?

• What are your kids’ favorite activities?

• What’s special to you in this season, or unique to your story? Sidenote: it doesn’t have to be unique compared to other people, it could simply be unique for your life right now. What’s happening that you’ve not gone through before? Or that’s meaningful, whether it’s unique or ordinary?

• What are your values? Do you love time together? Racking up adventures? Exploring the world? Quietly making your community a better place? Celebrating your identity? Brainstorm some ideas to memorialize that through photos!

This is just the start, but take a few moments to think through what matters to you, what’s happening in your lives in this season, and how you’d like to remember it, and the concrete ideas will start flowing!

Consider some of these ideas

Now that you’ve thought about what matters and is unique about your story in this season (or you skipped that part and went straight for the concrete suggestions!), here are some ways to bring some uniqueness to your family photos:

Have photos done at home.

It’s uniquely yours, no matter what state it’s in! And it doesn’t have to be Pinterest worthy to be worthy of remembering. Mine certainly isn’t!

Build a favorite activity into your session.

Go for a walk or hike; break out the books, board games, soccer ball, or family olympics; plan a baking activity (*so* many great photos here!) or family picnic; or head to the beach! Other fun ideas include roasting marshmallows in your backyard or favorite camping spot, paddle boarding or kayaking with your teens, going indoor rock climbing…if your family (especially your kids) love doing it, you’ll get great photos and have a blast.

Get kooky (or coordinated!) with outfits

If you have young children who love playing dress-up, your family is really into Halloween or cosplay, or you just love bringing a unique voice to the world through your clothes, plan a session around that! Or dress for your setting - I loved these nap dresses from a beach session!

You make your family photos unique by being you.

It sounds cheesy, but it’s true. No one else does family just like you do, so your photos will be unique no matter what. But if you want to mix it up and try something new this time, let’s talk!

Celebrating a family milestone? Photograph it!

When we think of family photography, we usually think of posed (or semi-posed) portraits in a pretty outdoor location, candid storytelling photos of a day in the life at home, mini sessions, things like that. The emphasis is on portraits and connection and our full attention is given to creating photos.

This month, I had the honor of photographing a birthday party at Surf Seafood in Nashua, NH (sidebar: Surf has amazing food and top-notch service - I highly recommend it!). While we spent a bit of time before dinner snapping a few posed portraits of each of the family members and units, the emphasis of the night was on the party: the celebratory mood, the cake & candles, the family gathered around a long table, that kind of thing.

One of the reasons this particular client reached out was because they wanted to make it possible for family members to sit back, relax, keep their phones off, and enjoy being together, while still having photos to look back on. I loved that! Any time we can find ways to keep technology in its place, especially during important family gatherings, I’m a big fan.

There are stories to be told everywhere: graduations, retirement, birthdays, family reunions - if there is a special life event happening and your people are gathering around to help you celebrate, let me help you remember it forever!

Minis v. family sessions: how to pick between the two

Mini sessions have been around long enough that most people know the difference between them and a full family session, but here are a few things to consider when you’re thinking about booking one or the other!

Minis are great when…

• You’re short on time and need a quick snapshot of you and your loved ones. Minis are 15 minutes at a set date & location. You’re in and out quickly!

• Your kids are outgoing with strangers and/or older (12+): Older kids tend to do better than younger ones with quick photos. They’re usually more willing to follow direction, they get my jokes (lol), and I can easily tell them where and how to pose. Little kids are adorable, and it’s typically harder to earn their cooperation in such a short period of time.

• You love having seasonal photos of you and your loved ones.

• You’re flexible: Minis are typically scheduled at a set location/time, with a rain date in case the always-fickle New England weather has other plans. It helps to have some scheduling flexibility.

• You’re on a budget: You really want some special, updated photos of you and your family and you’re on a tight budget. Family photos are an investment, regardless of the session length. I offer minis to make them more accessible for more families, because nothing matters more than photos of you with your people!

Family sessions are great when:

• You’re looking for more candid photos. More time means more natural, candid, and relaxed images of you and your family. I can sometimes snag one or two of these in a mini, but it’s rare. More time is necessary for candids!

• You want to capture your unique story. Whether it’s the sweet, nuanced ways you love to show affection; a fun outing; or a meaningful family routine, more time means more opportunity for me to see and photograph your unique story.

• You want photos with the grandparents (or aunts & uncles, cousins, best friends - any extra family members!). Maybe you’re planning a party, maybe you have family visiting, or maybe it’s just been awhile since the grandparents got photos with their grandkids: a family session is a great way to get those images.

• Families with shy or little kids - more time might seem counter-intuitive, but for shy and/or little ones (under 12), the more time we have, the more time they get to warm up to me and let their true selves shine.

• You want a say in where your photos are taken. Maybe that’s at home, your backyard, a favorite hiking spot or park, or someplace entirely different, but family sessions allow more time and freedom to build a session that’s unique to your family.

• You have a special family tradition or activity that you want to remember with more than just your phone photos (and YOU want to be in those photos, Mom!).

Now that you have a better idea how to pick between a mini session and a family session, let’s get a date on the calendar! Check out my 2023 fall sessions here:

Family photos *your* way, not mine

I love a good family session in the woods or by the beach - there’s plenty of gorgeous scenery, beautiful light, and loads of opportunities for natural moments of play and connection and joy.

But you know what else I love? When a family comes to me and wants to tell their story their way. Maybe that’s the forest or the beach, but maybe you love the city and want photos there (with an edgy, editorial feel like @drmramas’ family session in this reel!); maybe you just renovated your home and want to document your daily life there; maybe your house desperately needs to be renovated but it’s home and you love it and you want to remember the little, mundane moments you’ve spent there.

Maybe you’re anticipating loss and you want to remember something about *this* season, before the loss. Maybe you don’t love how you look on camera right now but your family loves you as you are and you want to remember that care and connection for years to come. Maybe your family isn’t a traditional one (whatever that means) and you want to celebrate them anyway!

There are all kinds of things about your story that make it unique; let’s tell them! Book a call to explore the options (no pressure or hounding or anything like that afterwards); head to my Inquiries page or click the “Get Started” button below!

Apple blossom mini sessions in Amherst, New Hampshire

Spring is here…it’s time for apple blossom minis!

I have a *gorgeous* spot for apple blossom mini sessions about a 20-minute drive from the center of Hollis in Amherst, NH - who wants some fresh family photos next Saturday afternoon (May 6)? Due to the last-minute nature of it, I'm throwing in a couple of extra images with the session (5 instead of my normal 3).

Mini sessions make a perfect Mother’s Day gift!

In case you need extra convincing, here’s a story from last week:

A friend (who is also a mom) said to me, “All I want for Mother’s Day is one good photo of everyone smiling and looking at the camera!” I laughed and then realized she probably isn’t alone! All moms cherish photos of their loved ones, and we love it when our loved ones are at least pretending to be pleasant (lol).

Make your Mom’s day (or your wife’s!) and gift her not just one great photo, but five (or more!). Upgrades available, plus some gorgeous frames, prints, and other beautiful photo gifts.

Not available on May 6 but want to schedule your own mini session? Head to my inquiries page and ask about a private, schedule-at-your-convenience session!

Five reasons to have your next family photos taken at home

I take photos of my kids at home all the time. There are many things I love about it, but here are my top five reasons why I think you will, too.

One: It’s relaxed, comfortable, and you’re always prepared.

When you get photos taken at home, you’re in your own space. Your kids are comfortable and more likely to relax. You’ve got snacks handy when hunger strikes, When life happens (you know, messes, dirty diapers, “I have to use the potty!”, meltdowns, etc), you are prepared because you’re already at home and have everything you need to comfort, calm, and care for whatever need arises.

But the best part? It takes the stress out of preparing. No need to feel like you’re herding cats trying to get everyone rested, dressed, fed, and out the door on time. You get to be home, so you can take your time.

Two: Rain or shine (or snow!), daytime or nighttime, the show can go on.

Let’s be real here, living in New England, the weather can be SO unpredictable! Especially in the spring and fall, two favorite times for outdoor family photos. But if you plan to have your next photos taken at home, we don’t have to worry about that. We might even get to take some fun photos playing in the rain or snow, because you’ll be home and don’t have to worry about wet/cold/muddy kids in the car!

And if you want to remember a particularly special time of day, like bedtime or Friday night game night or your house is just dark, not to worry: there’s still a story to tell and light to tell it.

Three: You love your house.

Maybe like many families the last few years, you’ve spent a lot more time at home and invested some time and energy into updating a room or two (or more!). Getting photos at home is a great way to celebrate that hard work and your beautiful new space!

Four: You don’t love your house, but it’s your home.

Maybe like me, your home is old or outdated or cluttered or just not where you want it to be. For a long time, I dragged my feet on photographing my family in some of the rooms I disliked the most, but I was missing out on opportunities to tell (and remember) our full story. My kitchen is way too cluttered most of the time. It has yellow walls and orangey-cabinets and terrible lighting, but those are the last things I’m thinking about or will remember when I look back on this photo of my daughter:

Five: You’ll be able to remember the little things

Maybe you’re also like me and sometimes look back at where you’ve been on your parenting journey. Sometimes it’s been wonderful, sometimes it’s been overwhelming, but that’s life, right? A beautiful, painful, glorious mix of both. Getting photos taken at home helps you and your kids remember the good and honor the hard for years down the road, when the kids get older and the details start to fade for everyone.

I also remember how HARD the early years were - so much overwhelming need and attention and care. I’m beyond thankful for these photos because, without them, I’d have forgotten the beautiful, tender, sweetly-mundane moments in between.

Your story is beautiful and often, so much of it is at home. Invest in remembering what mattered in this season - all of the little quirks and details and personalities and relationships - and you’ll be so thankful you did.

Family mini sessions in Southern NH: what to expect

What to expect from family mini sessions

Mini sessions can be great way to quickly & easily update your family photos to reflect the changing seasons, your kids’ rapid growth, or sneak in some images with the grandparents. Family mini sessions are quick (mine are 15 minutes!) and include a few images (3). They are typically scheduled back-to-back at a set time and location; all you have to do is sign up for a slot and then show up a few minutes early.

Do I get to pick the location for my family mini session?

When I offer minis, they are at a set location. One of my favorite spots is Beaver Brook in Hollis, New Hampshire.

Now, if the date doesn’t work for your family or you have a different location in mind, you’re always welcome to grab a few other families and plan something special on your own! Maybe your neighborhood is hosting a block party this summer and everyone wants photos to celebrate, or your PTA is doing a fundraiser and wants to offer family minis, or your kids’ softball team is getting together to celebrate so why not take some photos while you’re at it? The sky’s the limit here if you have a few friends who want the same thing.

How many photos will I get with my mini sessions?

Lynnae Day Photography family mini sessions include 3 hand-edited, high-resolution digital images. You’ll get to pick from a gallery of at least 10 images, and can always purchase additional photos after the session if 3 just isn’t enough!

How many family members can I bring to my mini session?

My mini sessions are open to up to 8 family members. If you’ve got a larger family than that, don’t despair! Send me an email and we’ll figure out if you need two back-to-back sessions for your extended family (more photos!) or another arrangement.

What should I wear to a family mini session?

Whatever you want! 😉 The beauty of mini sessions is that because they’re quicksand easy, the pressure is off; you can make them whatever you want them to be.

Want to celebrate spring and wear pastels? You do you. Getting cozy for winter and want to bundle up in scarves and bulky sweaters? Rock it. Want something totally outside the box, like everyone wearing costumes or graphic tees and goofing off? I’m here for it!

If you’re concerned about your images having a coherent look & feel to them, here are some things to consider when you’re planning your wardrobe:

• Start with one person’s outfit - usually mom’s, let’s be honest - and build from there. Pick something that makes you feel pretty and/or makes you feel like yourself, and then add 2-3 more colors (at most!).

• What colors are in your outfit? Take a minute to think about what colors would complement them well - for example, if you have a lot of muted blues, pick a pop of mustard yellow or teal or orange in someone else’s outfit. If you’re at a loss, search Pinterest for some inspiration, or reach out to me! I’m always happy to consult on colors.

• It can also be fun to mix solids & prints, but keep the prints subtle and/or to a minimum, as they can pull all of the attention to the print and away from you! (There are always exceptions to everything: if you or your partner or your child live and breathe big, bold, prints, be yourselves! The point is to tell your story, not squeeze yourselves into something that isn’t you).

• Don’t forget about shoes! Make sure they fit with the whole look & feel you’re going for.

• Want something totally different, like costumes or grunge or matching Christmas PJs? I’m here for it.

When do you offer family mini sessions?

I typically offer mini sessions once in the spring and once or twice in the fall. In 2023, first priority for peak fall sessions will go to full session families; if I still have openings by the end of September, I’ll open up an October mini session date. (If you know of a Christmas tree farm close to Hollis, NH, that's open to photographers, let me know! I’d be open to doing those but have had trouble finding the right spot).

To be the first to know family mini session dates, be sure to sign up for my newsletter in the footer below or here.

Do you offer themed mini sessions? e.g. Easter, Halloween, Apple Blossoms, etc.

It depends! Typically I book sessions in off-peak times, so you won’t often see Easter or Christmas minis. That’s partly because the weather in the spring and late fall in New England can be wildly unpredictable, and partly because I like to dance to the beat of my own drum and love finding families who feel the same.

What I will do is find beautiful, off-the-beaten path spots in Southern New Hampshire, and the surrounding towns where you and your family can get photos that celebrate your love of nature, the environment, the changing seasons, and - most importantly - one another.

How do I book a mini session?

I’m so glad you asked! Head to my Families page and scroll down to the packages section. If I have minis available, I’ll link to them below “Mini Sessions”. If I don’t, you can join the waitlist!

3 tips for a great spring photo session

Spring in New Hampshire is a delightful time for family photos: the flowers are in bloom, the days are warming and lengthening, everyone is itching to get out of the house and go on an adventure, it’s just the best. It can also be muddy, rainy, or cold (or all three!), so here are some tips to make the most of your spring family session.

Pick a spot where there’s an indoor option or quick shelter

You never know when a shower will pop up (or a full day of rain in the forecast!), so my top tip for spring sessions is to plan it for a place you love that has an indoor option. Your home is a fantastic place to start: your kids will be more relaxed, it’s the place where you live the ins and outs of your story, and it’s the feeling you’ll want to remember later. Even if your home is not as tidy, updated, or bright as you want it to be, you’d be amazed at the kind of photos you can get at your own home.

Not feeling the at-home session? We’ll brainstorm other favorite places of yours (and mine!) that have some shelter and go from there.

Plan for messes!

With wet grass, mud puddles, and overflowing streams, someone is bound to get wet during your session! We’ll work together to keep it to a minimum (especially at first and especially if you’re looking for a more posed, traditional family portrait), but think of the stories we could tell with a bunch of rain boots, umbrellas, and rain coats, or muddy hands, like my son’s at the beginning of this post. So many beautiful stories!

Be flexible

If your heart is set on an outdoor-only session, flexibility is the name of the game! I’ll always ask when we book your session if you want to schedule a back-up date or play it by ear (I highly recommend planning a back-up date!), especially in the spring and fall when the weather can be so unpredictable. We keep an eye on the weather, stay in touch the few days before, and make a call the night before so you’re not rushed or concerned the day-of.

Make the most of it and book your spring session today!

Client feature: Brookline School District candidates Tracy Perry & Alyson Manion

This blog is part of a series of client features by Lynnae Day Photography. For the full series, see ‘Featured Clients'.

Tracy Perry, candidate for Brookline School District

Everyone has a story to tell. It's yours, it's unique, and it deserves a unique experience.

Last month, I had the privilege of photographing Tracy Perry and Alyson Manion for their school board bid in Brookline, New Hampshire. (And thanks to a snow day this week, I’m actually managing to post this before the election, so if you live in Brookline and are reading this before Tuesday, March 28, check out their joint platform here). They’re both passionate about supporting local schools, accomplished in their fields, and were a delight to work with!

Fun facts from our time together:

• Even when it’s cold, you can still have a good time and get great photos.

• Bringing a buddy/best friend/awesome campaign manager to touch up makeup and fix your hair and help you relax makes a world of difference! (Thanks, Lisa!)

• I come prepared with ideas, but these two brought their own as well and we made magic! I loved Alyson’s “can I just take a selfie?” question at the end of our time; it prompted this photo, which ended up being a favorite! #HereForAllTheCollaboration

Alyson Manion

Good luck in your run, Tracy & Alyson, and thanks so much for trusting me with your campaign portraits! It was an honor.

It's time to tell your unique story. 

Book a discovery call now!

Why is photography language SO violent??

My mission to change it.

Why is the language of photography so harsh, extractive, violent even? For example: Headshot. Photo shoot. Take/get/shoot a photo. I was curious about it, so I did a little research. According to Wikipedia, early film (video) cameras had a hand-crank mechanism similar to machine guns of the same era; a camera operator would “shoot” film the same way a machine gun operator would “shoot” their gun. 

Finding the explanation behind headshot is harder, but the term started in the acting & modeling industry, so the origin isn’t hard to imagine. If a camera operator “shot” images, then it’s easy to imagine how someone started calling a photo of an actor or model from the shoulders up a “headshot.”

There’s also all of the terminology around taking photos (vs. making). Taking implies a transfer of ownership, and can have extractive, power-oriented overtones. It’s also a distinctly American way of talking about photography (sidebar: don’t get me started on the history & experience of violence in America and how it infiltrates so much of our culture today). Case in point: in at least several European languages, for example, they use “make” instead of “take”, as in, “can I make your portrait?”.

My mission

Not one to shy away from challenging tasks, I’m on a mission to change the way we talk about photography in America, away from an extractive, forceful, and even violent vocabulary to a more inclusive, collaborative one. Here’s a quick cheat sheet for the most common terms:

• Portrait, not headshot

  Instead of “headshot”, use portrait, professional portrait, LinkedIn portrait, actor/modeling portrait, business portrait

• Photo session, not photo shoot

  Instead of “photo shoot,” try photo session, collaboration, photography project, work, etc.

• Make photos, not take photos

  Instead of “take photos,” use make, create, or collaborate on photos.

• Client, not subject

  Instead of “subject,” which has unfair power dynamics at its core, use model, collaborator, client, or talent.

I’m not alone in this or original in my idea: Carolyn Fong first inspired me to it and Diversify Photo has a much more comprehensive list that’s especially helpful for photographers. It may seem like a small thing, but I firmly believe that our words have implications (positive and negative). Being thoughtful and intentional about how I talk about the work I do is my first step towards a more inclusive, collaborative world.

Community Art Project: What We Love About Hollis

"What We Love About Hollis" was created by Lynnae Day, Hollis resident and owner of Lynnae Day Photography, to celebrate all the things we love about this Southern NH town.

This was a true community effort: participants were photographed at Old Home Days (September 2022), wrote on their photos what they love most about Hollis, and picked a spot on the board to display their photos. The final product speaks to the rich tapestry of experiences & stories that make up our town. It is on display at the Hollis Social Library through the end of December 2022.

What about you? What do you love about Hollis? Share your thoughts & stories in the comments below, or using the #WhatWeLoveAboutHollis hashtag on Instagram.