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!

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!

How to prepare for your next headshot - Nashua, New Hampshire photographer

Getting headshots taken? Do these 5 things!

If you’re a business professional or small business owner in Southern New Hampshire, chances are you need a headshot! Here are some key things you can do to help prepare for your session and get the most out of your investment.

• Get rest

  The number one thing you can do to prepare for your headshot session is to get adequate rest the night before. You want to look your best, and getting enough sleep the night before is an excellent first step. Allow yourself extra time before the session to perfect your wardrobe, style yourself, and travel.

• Think about props

  If we're creating headshots that have more of a lifestyle or branding feel to them than formal headshots, think about whether there are any props/visual elements that help tell your story. Some examples include your own laptop, paper planner if you use one, a favorite mug or pen or plant, etc.

  I'll have a couple of very basic things with me in our minimalistic, white office, but if there are things you use on a daily basis or brand elements that help tell your story, bring them along! And feel free to send me ideas/ask questions about this one, too.

• Plan your outfit

  It's also important to think carefully about what you plan to wear for your headshots. My Number One rule is to wear something that fits well and flatters your face, but here are some additional questions to consider:

  If you’re a business owner, what are your brand colors? Can you work them into your outfits?

  What neutrals do you naturally rock? White? Gray? Khaki? Brown? Black? Pick at least one and work it in to help bring balance to your images.

  Do you need to hire a hair and/or makeup artist, or are you comfortable doing your own?

• Arrive early

  Plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early for your headshots; I often have these sessions scheduled back-to-back, and any missed time unfortunately can't be rescheduled.

  Once you arrive, we'll chat for a few minutes, and then get to work. We'll start with your most important photos and then have some fun.

• Have fun

  Headshot photos turn out the best when you are yourself. It’s important to remember: just because there is a camera pointing at you, you don’t always have to look at it. Sometimes the most meaningful images are when you’re enjoying a moment instead of posing.

  If you find it easier to relax with a friend around, consider booking a double session! Or invite them along for yours and they'll just be out of the frame. Either way, I'll be prompting you throughout to talk about yourself, your work, your hobbies, anything to help you relax and get those natural expressions coming through.

Headshot sessions don’t have to be intimidating. Schedule yours today!

Eastham, MA, family lifestyle session

Eastham is a special place for my family so I was thrilled when it worked out to meet up with Liz and her family while we were both on vacation!

We hung out at First Encounter Beach, playing in the sand & tide pools. It was the epitome of “light and loveliness” - what I’m all about capturing for your family around here! I can’t get enough of the light by the ocean late August through mid-October - it’s brilliantly clear, bright, and just makes colors SING. 

I also loved listening to Poppa sing to his great-granddaughter, watching big sister lose herself in play, and marveling at how chill little sister was!

It’s not too late to book a family session on the beach - Cape, North Shore, NH, or Maine! What are your favorite spots? Want to savor the last days of warm, beautiful weather with me and make some light & lovely memories?

Newburyport, MA, family lifestyle session

New England beaches are my absolute favorite! Nothing beats the sand, sun, blue skies, and smell of salt in the air.

I met Donna & her family at Plum Island Point - not exactly the prettiest of New England beaches (my pick, for easy parking purposes!) but you better believe we made the most of it. That pavilion, the sand, and hazy blue skies were stunning backdrops for this crew’s first extended family session, celebrating the first granddaughter! Speaking of granddaughter, we got some adorable happy photos of her, but also? She’s a baby and wasn’t happy for part of the time, and that’s ok! I’m big on capturing you and your family as you are, which means that sometimes babies are sad when we’re together. I work with you ahead of time to figure out the best possible time to make sure everyone’s happy and well rested, but life happens, you know? And now this family has some beautiful, REAL memories of this season in their lives.

What’s your family’s story? I’d love to get to know you and work together to capture your personal light and loveliness.

Family mini session: Hollis, NH

I kicked off the start of Lynnae Day Photography with a couple of mini sessions at Beaver Brook in Hollis, NH. This sweet family chose these sessions as their very first professional photos and I was so honored to spend time with them! We had fun climbing on rocks, goofing off with an “epic” family band photo (my album cover photography needs some work ;) ), and enjoying the few moments together.

Family mini session: Hollis, NH

I kicked off the start of Lynnae Day Photography with a couple of mini sessions at Beaver Brook in Hollis, NH. These dear friends drove all the way up from the Boston area for a quick session and I couldn’t be more grateful! We had loads of fun in a short time, and then kept the fun going with a family hike & picnic. Thank goodness for beautiful outdoor spaces for photos & connecting with friends after one heck of a long year!

Arlington, MA, family lifestyle session

My first official family lifestyle session went off without a hitch in Arlington, MA, last month! We hung out at Menotomy Rocks Park for about an hour, finding all the pretty spots & enjoying the playground. My favorite moments are when the “camera face” comes off and the kids (and adults!) lose themselves in the playing & connecting, and just have fun being together.

Light & loveliness everywhere you look!

Why "light and loveliness"?

Ever since I picked up a film camera waaaaay back in 2003, I've always been drawn to finding beauty. Photography has been a solace, a comfort, and even a spiritual discipline in hard times, helping me remember that no matter what is going on around me, there is light & loveliness all around me.

I don't dive into the hard a ton around here because it's too easy for me to get stuck in it, but always, always, always I am looking for the light, looking for the loveliness, searching for beauty in brokenness. Whether you feel like your family "has it all together" (who does??) or you're really, really struggling, or somewhere in between, I'd love to come alongside you and capture the light & loveliness in your story.

Why family photography?

Ever since my kids were born & I started taking more portrait photos, I knew I wanted to try a family photography business. These moments with our kids FLY BY - I'm only five years in and while most days still feel really long, I'm already super aware of how soon they'll be headed off to college. 😭

I knew if I started a family photography business, I could help local families preserve some of those fleeting moments, naturally, simply, and honestly. Also? I absolutely LOVE meeting new people and catching up with friends.

So, after a year+ of being home nearly all the time, plus a few photography classes to level up my editing, portrait, and business skills, I'm finally ready to take the plunge!

I work with families of all types in New Hampshire and Massachusetts who love to laugh and who want to remember the little things. I work with you to create simple, honest, and beautiful images that reflect you and your family as you are, in this moment; that bring joy to your hearts & a smile to your face; that help you remember these fleeting moments for a lifetime.