Today we are featuring a gorgeous golden hour family session from Om Mama Collective member, Christina Chacharon of Chach Photography. Christina specializes in birth, newborn, and family sessions.
When was the last time you had family photos taken? No, not a selfie or a self-timer shot. Or a grainy, too-dark photo taken by the first willing relative. I’m talking about professional photos.
If you’re like most people, it’s been a while. It probably sounds stressful. You worry that your kids won’t listen or smile. You think, “maybe next month” (or year!). But you know what? Now is the perfect time. It’s the perfect time to capture your family as they are now, at this moment. And getting your kids to listen? Don’t worry! I structure my family sessions around the mood of the kids and even allow them time to play and explore. Photographer’s secret: Sometimes those are the best photos because they capture their true personalities at their current ages.
Earlier this summer, Abby reached out to me and asked if I would be available for a golden hour, that is, the hour before sunset, shoot that evening. My schedule doesn’t always allow for last-minute bookings, but that day it did. So we planned to meet up later that day at a local beach. I am so glad I said yes: This session was so fun and the photos turned out great! We eased into photos as the kids explored, threw rocks, and showed me their beach finds. The PNW really showed off that night, and the light kept getting better and better.
You’ve probably seen pictures from family shots like this on your Instagram or Facebook feeds. And while a sunset photoshoot might seem like something reserved for social media influencers, it’s something you can easily do with your family.
Want to do a golden-hour photoshoot but not sure how your kids will do? Luckily, the sun sets earlier in September, so this is a great time to schedule. Try to get your kids a late nap or at least some quiet time in the afternoon, feed them a snack or dinner close to the start of photos, and if you’re up for it, ice cream is always a great reward after!
As well as serving Seattle as a birth, newborn and family photographer, Christina is a birth and postpartum doula on a mission to support parents during the most foundational period of their parenthood journey.
You can follow Christina on Instagram
