A Different Approach to Family Portraits
Sam runs Stay Awhile Photography, a small, independent studio. In a short interview, Sam described an approach to family and portrait sessions that leans less on careful posing and more on observation — and explained why that shift matters for the people in front of the camera.
When the usual advice doesn't fit
Much of the common guidance around portrait sessions centers on planning poses and directing every detail. Sam has found that this can work against the goal.
"Sometimes, the more you try to create a perfect moment, the less natural it feels," Sam said. "I've found that stepping away from that approach and giving people room to interact naturally can make a real difference."
In practice, that means encouraging clients to talk to each other, laugh, or even pretend the photographer isn't there. Rather than constantly directing where someone should look or how they should stand, Sam prefers to observe, make small adjustments when needed, and let the moment unfold.
The results, according to Sam, often come from the in-between moments: "Often, it's the laughter between poses or the expressions people don't even realize they're making that end up becoming both my favorites and theirs."
What most family photography pages leave out
Search results for family photographers tend to focus on logistics and style. Sam points to something more personal that comes up repeatedly in sessions: how much people worry about the little details of how they look.
"Everyone has their own preferences, insecurities, and ideas about how they want to present themselves, and that becomes especially important when photographing families or groups," Sam said.
Sam's response is twofold. First, making sure everyone has their moment in front of the camera and feels equally represented. Second, reminding people that the process doesn't end when the camera is put away.
"Editing is flexible, and many of the little things people worry about can be addressed afterward," Sam said. "I always encourage people to share their preferences and be open about what they'd like adjusted, because ultimately, the goal is to create photographs that they genuinely love and feel good about."
For readers preparing for a session, the practical takeaway is straightforward: raise concerns early and directly. Photographers can often address them, either during the shoot or in editing.
Don't book on beautiful images alone
Asked what he would stop someone from deciding too quickly when booking a family photographer, Sam focused on how people evaluate a portfolio.
"I'd encourage people not to choose a photographer based solely on a few beautiful images," he said. "Of course, the quality of the work matters, but I think it's equally important to consider whether the photographer's approach resonates with you."
Sam describes a portfolio as "a little window into how they see the world," and notes that a beautiful photograph doesn't necessarily speak to you personally. Every photographer has their own perspective, which shapes the moments they notice and the stories they tell.
His advice is to take time exploring a photographer's body of work and consider whether you can envision your own memories captured in that way. "Years from now, I think the photographs that mean the most will be the ones that don't just look beautiful, but genuinely feel like you."
Practical takeaways for booking a family session
- Ask about approach, not just style. A portfolio shows what a photographer notices; a conversation shows how they work with people.
- Speak up about appearance concerns. Preferences and insecurities are common, and many details can be addressed in editing.
- Expect some unposed time. Sessions that leave room for natural interaction can yield the expressions clients value most.
- Look beyond a few standout images. Consider whether the overall body of work reflects the kind of memories you want to keep.
More of Sam's work is available at Stay Awhile Photography. Readers researching photographers can also consult general guidance on choosing a photographer and family portrait sessions.