My approach to family photography is simple, warm and down-to-earth. My goal is to connect, have fun and put everyone at ease.

It all begins by meeting at a home or beautiful location outdoors in the late afternoon.

Next, rather than a posed performance, my family photo shoots are more like an enjoyable walk. While walking, talking, laughing and smiling, I strive to craft and capture natural and beautiful moments that reflect your family in a genuine way.

My biggest hope is that the photographs will become timeless treasures that fill your heart with joy.

As a dad of young kids, I know how complicated life can be. That’s why with family photo sessions, it’s worth planning ahead.

I find it’s helpful to keep in mind that most photo sessions last about an hour (depending on the weather and the kids). So it’s a good idea to bring some extra layers of clothes, snacks and water just in case. And if your family is running late, don’t worry about it. That’s par for the course. It’s better to arrive late and at ease than all stressed out.

Lastly, if you have something you’d like to bring, like your family dog, a frisbee, favorite surfboard or something else, bring it along! Often these kinds of things can help everyone to unwind and then later we can decide whether or not to include them in any frames.

Being nervous is totally normal and that’s where I can help! My job is to make the experience as calm, creative, and fun as possible. !00% of my clients express so much joy and gratitude for making the experience such an enjoyable and bonding experience.

Ideally, it’s best to wear something that is comfortable and makes you feel good.

Stay away from clothing with logos or loud colors. And of course watch out for outfits that might clash. Rather than match perfectly, think of having everyone wear something that goes together in a natural, yet not overly obvious way. I’ve found that typically solid neutral colors work best for parents and kids can wear prints.

Most importantly wear something that authentically reflects who you are.

Most shoots go from 30min to 2 hours. It really depends on location, weather and of course, the kid’s ages. As we all know, the younger ones (and the teens) can usually only endure so much!

Most importantly, I strive to make the experience easy going and enjoyable. With that in mind, I find that the sweet spot for timing is usually around 1 hour.

Prints are built into each package and in addition you can order images directly from your unique online gallery.

Santa Barbara is full of amazing locations. There is so much natural beauty and so many beaches, piers, walkways, buildings and parks. You almost can’t go wrong. Yet, when selecting a location try to find a spot that isn’t cluttered and your family enjoys. If you always go to specific beach or location, that might be the perfect place to start.

The best locations tend to be simple, scenic and easy to access. For example, Butterfly Beach in Montecito is one of my all time favorites. Not only is it the closet beach to our home, it’s one of the the most casual and beautiful beaches around. It never gets that crowded and it’s beautiful year round. That being said, I’ve done family shoots in backyards, at ranches, on hiking trails, in national parks, at Lotus Land and more.

Most importantly, you want to find a location that “fits” the vibe of your family.

Not at all - what you see is what you get!