Tag Archive for: family

Pittsburgh Christmas Family Portraits

Here’s a bit of holiday cheer from a recent family portrait session featuring little Arleigh who is about to turn two. Her mama dressed her in a cute party dress and she really sparkled in front of their tree.

portrait in front of the Christmas tree

Arleigh’s daddy playfully told her not to tip the vase of Christmas bulbs (smart guy!). And she went for it with a sweet and mischievous sense of satisfaction.

portrait by the Christmas tree

It was pretty warm outside for the beginning of December, so we were lucky enough to do some portraits with them in front of their home, all decorated for the holidays.

family posing with a frame

In front of their home

I’m learning a bit about how to keep a toddler’s attention during a photo shoot. Having photographed brides and grooms over the last six years, this was never really a concern of mine. But now, I’m practicing a lot at home with my son and finding out what works and what doesn’t. Some people are naturals at this, but for me, it’s all trial and error. So during this session, I put a stuffed puppy on my head that barks when you snap or clap. And I think it was mildly amusing to Arleigh. Until the puppy slipped off of my head and fell to the floor. That was a very happy mistake. Now, how many shots could I get with this technique before it got old?

mistletoe photo

toddler portrait

children's portrait in front of Christmas tree

And this is probably my favorite shot of the day. We were in Arleigh’s bedroom when her mama and daddy told her to look outside at the blue bird in the tree. She was curious and played along with them for a few minutes and I love opportunities like this to capture these candid moments and her sweet personality. If you’re interested in scheduling a photo shoot like this at your home, I’d love to hear from you!

toddler portrait by the window

What a fun session! Thanks to Kristin and Travis for the opportunity to photograph your darling family! Merry Christmas!

Gift Certificates for Portrait Sessions

Gift certificate for portrait sessions

If you’re looking for a great gift idea, consider giving a portrait session. Captivating Imagery offers gift certificates of portrait sessions for all occasions: Mother’s Day, high school graduation, engagements, you name it – in studio or on location. Use our contact form or call 412-427-8371 for details.

Christmas Outtakes

This week we put our Christmas tree out on the curb and said “adieu” to a wonderful Christmas season. But I have just one more post related to the holiday because in our big family, it lasts into the new year with the various family Christmas dinners. And dinner with the Wells and Bowman family always promises priceless photo ops – I can say that cause they’re family. My sister-in-law and her husband have five little boys and they are all precious in their own way. I thought I’d post some of our outtakes, because they are the ones we will come to treasure over the years. As Aunt Kate, I command little authority as a photographer and there is an orchestra of family members behind me and the camera coaxing and cajoling these boys to smile. It’s fun and we definitely created some moments as you’ll see below.

Browns fan

Yes, my Pittsburgh friends, I have Browns’ fans in my family. They live in Ohio, so you can’t blame them. This little guy was not very smiley when it came to having his photo taken. His grimace suits the jersey though.

Sticking his tongue out

What is it about little boys that after a certain age, sticking your tongue out is the only way to pose for a photo? Just kidding, this guy smiled sweetly during our group family photo, but I happen to prefer this look for an ornery four-year old.

Twins

You can just tell that these two are going to be popular with the ladies someday.

Chaos

I’m glad I didn’t delete this one, which is a natural inclination when I find that something unexpected has ended up in the frame. Remember what I was saying about being a photographer and trying to photograph your own family? I’m learning to enjoy the chaos.

Sad bunny ears

Ok, this one seems slightly cruel to include, but it was a priceless moment. My mother-in-law and I just laughed and decided we’ll get this one out for a chuckle when he graduates from high school. This little guy is the oldest of the brothers and the most adverse to having his photo taken. He was tearing up and refused to smile. His mom is to my left insisting that the sooner he smiles, the sooner we’ll be done. My husband is behind her, giving her bunny ears to lighten the mood and Tyler is starting to crack up through his tears. He’s trying to tell his mom that Uncle Brad is giving her bunny ears.

While that photo is funny today, I can’t help but posting this one below. Because Tyler is such a smart and sweet boy, I want to make sure I end these outtakes with a photo that really reflects his nature. And yes, that is Muhammed Ali in the background. I love my in-laws!

All smiles

Christmas portraits ~ Merry Christmas

Over the last few weeks I’ve worked with some great families and friends on family portraits in front of the Christmas tree. This season’s portraits included a couple of really well behaved kids and babies and a few furry friends.

Children's portrait

Dog by the Christmas tree

Dog with reindeer antlers and santa cap

Family portrait

I love Christmas tree portraits. The glowing Christmas trees are so sentimental—trimmed with the family’s collection of ornaments over the years. And people just seem to glow with warm feelings about the holiday to come. Merry Christmas to all and thanks to all my clients for a wonderful 2009!

Christmas family portrait