your CT shoreline family photo session...
A few years ago, we took a family trip to Michigan — and it gave me one of the most beautiful core memories I'll ever have.
We took kayaks out on this stunning river with the boys. The scenery was absolutely breathtaking, the weather was perfect, and for about the first seventy-five percent of the trip… it was pure magic. (And then, of course, the kids decided they were tired. In the middle of a river. Because of course they did.)
But here's the thing — I had my phone tucked away in one of those waterproof bags the whole time. And while I loved being completely present on that river with my boys, I kept having this moment wash over me:
I really wish someone were here to capture this.
Not just because the photos would have been beautiful (they would have) — but because the memory felt so good. And that's exactly what I want you to feel when you look at your family photos years from now. Not just "wow, that's a stunning shot" — but that full-body rush of being transported right back to a moment you never want to forget.
Here's the truth: beautiful photos are not the goal. The memory is the goal.
Because if your husband hates the actual shoot? Every time you look at those photos, you'll both remember that. But what if the shoot itself was something worth remembering?
That's exactly what I'm here for — and I'm giving you my TOP 5 WAYS TO MAKE YOUR HUSBAND HATE IT LESS:
You're going to need to read #5… because it might be just the ticket! Ha ha ha!
#1 - Let's Tell Him Exactly What to Wear (trust me)
I know what you're thinking: "He's going to hate being told what to wear."
Well, I've got his back, trust me. When it comes to family photos… me, or you can tell him exactly what he needs to wear so that he doesn't have to second-guess anything… but we're not just going to hand him something he despises. We'll consider his comfort, the weather, and most importantly, something that makes his biceps look massive.
He'll feel like there's no confusion or pressure… but also that he's been taken into consideration and not just bossed around.
#2 - Give Him Tasks to Feel Needed
Here's the thing men love: problem-solving. Look at every Dad at the airport for proof of this.
They thrive on it. So, let's put him in charge of something that matters. I have one dad who packs the car with foldable chairs, umbrellas, and a wagon… he sets up a whole camping site each year, and he loves it. Another Dad books his wife's hair and makeup and has a bottle of wine ready for her. I promise he'll enjoy this, and he'll feel like he's part of something big. This isn't just a photoshoot; it's a core family memory, and he gets to play the hero.
#3 - No More Awkward Poses
Family photos should NOT feel like a time capsule of the past… sweaty backs, stiff smiles, and hours of awkward posing… that's not how we do things here. The whole shoot will be set up to make everyone feel comfortable and at ease. Your husband will be able to relax, hang out, and even toss the kids around or tickle them until they're in fits of laughter. Trust me, we'll capture real moments that show off his best side without any awkward posing.
#4 - Give Him a Say in the Creative Direction
This is not a photographer-controlled one-way street. If your husband loves tossing a football around with the kids or if he wants to get in on some tackling, let's make that happen! I want him to feel like he's part of the creative process. This is his shoot too, and if he wants to suggest some ideas that'll make everyone smile, I'm all for it. We'll make this a day that's fun and reflects your family's unique vibe.
#5 - And, If All Else Fails...
Just remind him of two things:
He gets to make out with you a bunch…
Family photos don't have to be a drag — they can be a fun, memorable experience that your husband actually enjoys (and might even look forward to next time).
The only evidence I have of the canoe trip





