The start of a new year always feels like a fresh beginning. It’s a time for setting goals, making memories, and prioritizing what matters most—family. One of the best ways to celebrate this new chapter is by planning a family photography session. It’s more than just taking pictures; it’s about capturing the love and connection that make your family special. Whether it’s been years since your last family photos or you’re ready to start a new tradition, we’re here to make the process simple and enjoyable.


Before diving into the details, think about why you want these photos. Is it to capture how much your kids have grown? To celebrate a milestone? Or maybe to update your walls with new family portraits? Knowing your “why” will help shape the session and make the photos more meaningful. At Samantha Ann Photo, we believe every family has a unique story. When you book with us, we’ll work together to create a session that reflects your family’s personality and what matters most to you.


Timing is everything when it comes to family photos. In the winter months, the soft, diffused light can be beautiful for outdoor sessions, but if it’s too chilly, our cozy studio is always a great option. Think about your family’s schedule, too. For families with young kids, mornings are often best because little ones are fresh and happy. If you have older kids or teenagers, late afternoon might work better. We’ll help you find the perfect time that works for everyone.


One of the first decisions to make is where you’d like your session to take place. Do you love the idea of an outdoor location, like a quiet park or a scenic spot near Swansboro? Or would you prefer the comfort and convenience of a studio setting? Our studio is designed with families in mind—it’s warm, inviting, and full of beautiful backdrops to choose from. Plus, you don’t have to worry about the weather! If you have a special spot that’s meaningful to your family, let us know, and we’ll work together to make it happen.


Outfits can make or break the look of your photos, but don’t let that stress you out. The key is to coordinate without being overly matching. Start with a color palette that fits the season and your style—think warm neutrals, soft pastels, or deep winter hues. For parents, solid colors or subtle patterns work best. Kids can have a little more fun with textures like knits or soft layers. Avoid busy prints or anything with large logos—they can distract from the timeless feel of the photos. If you’re unsure, we’re happy to help with outfit suggestions!


Props can add a personal touch to your photos, but they should enhance the session, not overwhelm it. A cozy blanket, a favorite book, or even a small family heirloom can make your photos feel extra special.

When it comes to poses, don’t worry about perfection. Some of the best moments happen when families interact naturally. Laughing, playing, or cuddling together creates the kind of images that truly capture your bond. We’ll guide you through the session, offering gentle direction to keep everyone relaxed and having fun.


Before your session, think about how you want to use your photos. Do you want a gallery wall of framed prints? A coffee table album to flip through for years to come? Or maybe a few smaller prints to share with family and friends?

Knowing what you’d like ahead of time can help us plan the session with those end products in mind. For example, if you’re creating a gallery wall, we’ll focus on a mix of close-ups and wider shots to give you variety.


The most important part of a family photography session is to enjoy it. We know life is busy, and taking the time to do something like this isn’t always easy. But trust us—it’s worth it. The giggles, the snuggles, and even the chaos all become part of the story we capture. Our goal at Samantha Ann Photo is to make your session stress-free and enjoyable. From the first consultation to the moment you see your final images, we’ll guide you every step of the way.


Let’s Make This Year Memorable

There’s no better time than the new year to capture your family’s love and connection. Whether you’re looking for a fresh start, celebrating a milestone, or simply want to document this moment in your lives, we’re here to help.

Let’s plan a session that reflects everything that makes your family unique. Together, we’ll create images you’ll treasure not just this year, but for a lifetime. Reach out today to book your session. We can’t wait to work with you!

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