Preparing For Your Unscripted Life Session | New York Family Photographer

The Unscripted Life Sessions focus on your family in an environment that holds significant meaning to you. I create stunning photographs of your everyday life in all the beauty, chaos, and love that it involves.

My sessions are unique and unlike traditional posed photography. I intend for the images to grow in meaning over time. As your children age and life changes, you may discover yourself coming back to particular images. One that captures something exceptional unfolding in their personalities, or even, in yourself.

I booked a traditional portrait session a few years back. My little family looked so posh. We appeared as though parenthood did not come with all-nighters, belly fat, dirty hair, and stress levels unimaginable before baby. I was my own insecure client. I was unaware I was altering our TRUE life - the interactions and moments that are priceless to me - for the camera. In retrospect, I am sure I sought these pictures so I would receive outside validation that I am doing beyond well as a parent, as a woman, as a human.

This was before I could see my honest life worth documenting as it is. Today, I see life through a different lens, and it feels like a best-kept secret I get to share with my clients.

Although documentary photography is becoming more and more popular, I still received many questions about it. With this in mind, I put together a few tips for preparing for your upcoming Unscripted Life Session.

What To Wear

Wear whatever you feel comfortable wearing, even if everyone is not matching. If you want to match, then do so. Just make sure you are comfortable and that your clothing is not a distraction or an element of stress.

For children, I believe it is best to let them have input. Children - especially toddlers - love to exert their independence as they discover the world around them. I have given up trying to negotiate with my daughter over why her Moana pajamas are not school attire. And yet, the photographs I have of her in outfits of her choice are some of my favorites. The goal is to have everyone happy and relaxed - especially the little ones.

Do your usual makeup and hair.  If the idea is to capture a normal day in the life, you want to look like you usually do. I want you to avoid feeling that the photos may seem a bit inauthentic to you later on.

For adults, there are a few things you can do to make your Unscripted Life Session more enjoyable. Avoid haircuts the day before. Have a haircut a week, or so, before the session. Men shave right before the session in case you regularly experience irritation.

There may be details that you are uncomfortable with or honestly do not want visible. I want you to love and treasure your images forever, so please feel free to speak to me if you have a scar, tattoo, or something of that sort that you do not (or that you do) want noticeable in your images.

What To Plan

Plan simple, easygoing activities… or, alternatively, plan nothing at all! The Unscripted Life Sessions are intended to capture whatever is regularly going on in your life or at your home. It may be as simple as a family meal, baking cookies, a crafting project. Maybe a guitar lesson or an outing to the park. Possibly bath time or taking the dog for a walk. Savor the moments of your every day and use the time to create lovely, lasting memories preserved through imagery.

I am very organized, and I like to keep a schedule. Other parents may wish to play it by ear. This is your time, your life, your photo session. So during your Unscripted Life Session, any approach works for me. When in doubt, let your kids choose at least one activity!

One of my favorite Unscripted Life Sessions was this one, featuring little Henry and his parents on a quick trip to the playground after school. It was an uncomplicated activity, but it fits in naturally with their daily routine and what they desired to capture about their lives.

I will work with you and your family before your session to nail down the perfect place and activity. The key is if you have something "planned," you are likely to act more openly in front of the camera, and in turn, so will your children.

My Favorite New York City Photo Spots | New York Family Photographer

My training for The 2018 TCS New York City Marathon, has led me to discover many gorgeous spots in and around Manhattan.  This year's long training runs (that go up to 15, 18, and 20 miles ) became the perfect chance to change up the scenery.  There are only so many loops you can run of the outer circle of Central Park before you feel like a character in Groundhog Day.  

Plus, I'll use any opportunity for a scouting adventure!  

Many of these locations are the backdrop for my Summer's End Petite Sessions.  My families and I are having so much fun capturing memories in these spots!  

P.S. - did you remember to reserve your Petite Session?  Only one weekend left!  Make sure to do so HERE.

I have lived in New York City for over a decade, and I am just learning all of its secrets - totally embarrassing!  Here is a list of my favorite old and new locations to hold sessions at.

In Central Park:

Bow Bridge

This Victorian cast iron bridge is known for attracting romantics.  You are bound to walk up on an engagement or wedding photo session whenever you visit Bow Bridge.  The view from here of Fifth Avenue and Central Park West is spectacular!  With its close proximity to The Ramble, this location is a  dream.

The Ramble

Escape the hustle and bustle of New York with a journey through The Ramble.  The Ramble is a gem with its cloak of dense vegetation, serpentine trails and streams, and ancient boulders.  Nature, wildlife, and tranquillity melt away the City.  The Ramble is an all-time preferred location for family photo shoots.

Photography Tips:  The Magic Hour light cascading through the foliage produces a magical look.  Bring along a reflector to fill in shadows or bump up your ISO if you need a bit more control of light.

The Arches

With 20+ arches throughout around Central Park, you are guaranteed to spot at least one.  For family sessions, a silhouette shot under a bridge is a must!  When a client requests a session be held in the North Woods, I always make sure we make our way to Glen Span Arch (West 102nd Street).  Built around 1865 by Calvert Vaux Stone arch is perhaps the most majestic and ominous arch in the park, covering a shadowed, quiet path beside a gentle stream. 

Photography Tip: the echoes under almost all the arches are fantastic!  If you are losing the attention of some of your younger kiddos during a shoot ask that they stand, yell, or jump in the middle under an arch.  Make a game of it.  You'll regain their attention, and such silhouette shots are very forgiving with your subject does not want to cooperate.  

Bethesda Fountain

The Bethesda Fountain is the central point of Bethesda Terrace.  Iconic and rich in history the elegant, eight-foot fountain was the only statue called for in the original design of the park.  I have families regularly request that the sessions be held here.  Bethesda Fountain is also a favorite spot amongst locals and tourists.  

Photography Tip: If you want to experience the elegance and tranquility early morning just after sunrise is the best time.

The High Line

After decades of neglect, the High Line was destined for demolition by Mayor Giuliani, one of his last acts in office.  Luckily, few of individuals saw the beauty and thriving wild plants that had secretly taken over the structure.  In 1999, Joshua David and Robert Hammond founded Friends of the High Line, a non-profit conservancy, to advocate for its preservation and reuse as a public space.  Since the rebirth of the Hire Line, it has become a global inspiration for cities to convert abandoned industrial zones into vibrant common gardens and areas.  Walking from Gansevoort Street to West 34th Street 12th Avenue, these are spectacular photo opportunities!  

Photography Tip: The sunsets are spectacular from the High Line!  Combine the Magic Hour and a High Line garden, and you have the most beautiful and fun setting for an Unscripted Life Session

The Cloisters & Fort Tryon Park 

A short journey uptown, and you will be in left in awe as you meander through The Met's Cloisters and the surrounding For Tryon park.  The medieval-themed museum and monastery transports visitors to another world.  The building contains architecture elements and settings relocated mostly from four French abbeys, which between 1934 and 1939 were transported, reconstructed and integrated with new buildings.

Fort Tryon Park alone is home to greenery and gardens that are beautiful settings for any photo shoot.  With less foot traffic than Central Park, you are guaranteed to get lost in capturing stunning moments of your clients!  Make sure to visit the Billings Estate tunnel in For Tryon Park during your visit.  The tunnel is an enormous enclosure that filters light beautifully and will help eliminate any photo failures.

Stay tuned for a follow up blog with more stunning locations soon!  

Examples of color and black white family photographs

All images shot at locations mentioned in the blog post in New York City.

Now go out, explore, create, and discover!  Please share with us your favorite New York City locations in the comment section below.  

The Fusco Family | New York Family Photographer

It is a privilege to be invited to document a family's milestones. I am incredibly thankful for repeat clients as I get to witness a family's love and dynamics grow and change. I first photographed this gorgeous couple in 2011 for their engagement. The affection between Beka and Mike radiates! They are a fun-loving couple, and they will bring a smile to your face from the moment you say hello to long after you have parted ways. We have kept in contact over the years, and I was so delighted to hear that they wanted to make a trip to the city for me to photograph them again. This time with their adorable little man, Camden!

Camden led the way through The Loch in Central Park laughing and exploring the entire time! What a sweet and curious little boy. He roamed the paths of the North Woods with his parents taking in and enjoying his new surroundings. His adorable laughing when Mom and Dad tossed leaves into the air had me in giggles as well! Throughout our session, this adventurous little one repeatedly asked for shoulder rides and tosses in the air from Dad. Best buds for sure those two are! And still, his love for Mom is evident in the quiet and affectionate moments they shared by the water. Such strong bonds always shine so brightly. 

Thank you to this beautiful family for once again inviting me into your lives. I cannot wait for the next time!  

Brotherly Love | New York Family Photographer

There is nothing quite like watching siblings interact and play.  There is an extraordinary bond between siblings close in age. Especially boys! I had the privilege of photographing Tucker and Quinn along with their parents on a beautiful - and warm - fall afternoon last month. For their Summer's End Mini Session, we met and explored Safari Playground in Central Park. The session flew by as my camera snapped pictures of them frolicking, laughing, and spending quality time together.

Tucker surely loved being outdoors! A natural explorer, he jumped through leaves, climbed trees, and created fun little games for him and his brother. It was a joy watching this silly and fun loving four-year-old concur his surroundings. Of course, his 15-month-old brother Quinn was in tow! Quinn followed his big brother, through the playground and encompassing area, idealizing and attempting to mimic Tucker. Quinn's big smile never left his face during the entire session. I found myself smiling throughout that day just thinking of the fun this family had together. There is no doubt that the adventurous and caring personalities of these brothers are due to their amazing parents, Adam and Tina! They both made sure to create engaging and interactive play. At one point, Quinn just could not stop giggling every time Dad pretended he was an airplane swinging him through the air! There were even quiet moments of snuggles and comfort with Mom.  

This loving family was such a pleasure to photograph. I adored every moment of their mini session! Being able to capture Quinn and Tucker's personalities along with each boy's unique and special bonds with mom and dad, was an absolute joy! Adam, Tina, Tucker, and Quinn, thank you for letting me document and create a visual story of such a beautiful time in your lives!

The Frankfurt Family | New York Family Photographer

Before it turned winter overnight here in New York, I had the privilege of creating photographs for the Frankfurt family during their Summer's End Mini Session.  We explored The Pool, The Loch, and all the North Woods of Central Park.  What an adventure it was!  This mini session was not the first time the Frankfurt's have been in front of my lens and watching Henry grow, and change has been incredible!  

Henry is such a vibrant, spunky, and caring little guy.  The confidence his amazing parents have instilled in him is evident as he was always ready to explore and discover no matter the environment.  Watching mom and dad play with, listen to, and hold their beloved Henry with such joy as we chased one another through the park was contagious!  I could not help smiling the entire session.  As I culled through the images, one thing was so evident - quite frankly - it pulled at my heartstrings.  No matter how much fun we were having, Henry always made sure to keep an eye out for his parents.  He would stop playing to give them some attention and love.  Seriously, tearjerker!  

I enjoyed spending time in Central Park with The Frankfurt's.  I am so grateful to them for allowing me to create a visual story of this extraordinary time in their lives!

I'll Keep You Wild Little One

"When you travel with your children you are giving them something that can never be taken away.  Experience, exposure, and a way of life." -Pamela T. Chandler

As parents, we believe providing our daughter with the opportunity to view the world's beauty, diversity, and to cultivate respect and appreciation for all, is of the utmost importance.  Our wish for her to recognize the value of travel, yet remain grounded and humble without a sense of entitlement that can come with such experiences.  Let's not BS here, at almost three years old how can we expect her to grasp that concept?  (Quo the full blown temper tantrum that took place today - hitting at me and throwing herself onto the pavement - over me saying no to a second dessert).  

My expectations are realistic for her first European visit.  No, I do not presume she will remember the tour of Lisbon or the all the historical stories I have presented to her this past week (geeky history buff over here).  Yes, I expect that scoop of gelato to be more important to her right now than all the time and effort my husband and I put into planning this trip.  

Still, with the little memories, she will retain of these trips during her early years I am confident that the experiences, encounters, and environments will shape the person she will become.  

Her appreciation for adventure will continue to blossom.  Her world will become bigger than the city she calls home.  And her understanding of the good and the evil that makes up humanity will be well-formed.  

So for now, I will take deep breaths as I attempt to peel my kicking and screaming child off the pavement - while mouthing silent apologies to those around me.  And I will relish the "WOWs" that escape her lips as she wanders through the foggy forest of Parque e Palácio Nacional da Pena.

Preservation

“I think every working mom probably feels the same thing: You go through big chunks of time where you’re just thinking, “This is impossible – oh, this is impossible.”  And then you just keep going, and keep going, and sort of do the impossible” – Tina Fey

Parenting has never been simple, but these days, it can be downright overwhelming.  Throw social media into the mix, and now everyone has an opinion on what you should or should not do as you raise your kids. I joke that I am #badparenting, but sometimes my child is not going to eat organic food at every meal, and sometimes I am so exhausted in the evening we curl up on the couch and watching a movie together and that does not mean that I am treating my TV as a babysitter.

We all know how disheartening it can feel, especially when you are just barely holding life, work, and family in a fragile balancing act.

Parents, I hear you. I see you. I am you.

Right now, I am attempting to type this post as quietly as I can (because today my two-year-old will not nap without me next to her) while I am simultaneously listening in on a conference call. All I want to do is snuggle down into her and feel that mother/daughter bond as we both drift off to nap.  Yet, unfortunately, that is just not a possibility today. #badparenting

Here comes the guilt. The guilt in the realization that I know that these moments are fleeting. That one day I will not have the opportunity to wrap my arms around her and feel her body relax as she drifts off to sleep. That there will come a day very soon, when she will say, “Get real, Mom!” if I ask her for a hug and kiss in public. That “fix it all” Mommy will no longer be needed, and she will be able to soothe herself when she gets a boo boo.

I cannot quit my job. I cannot be a stay at home parent.  I cannot allow this guilt to tear me up because I did not give up my personal and career ambitions the moment I became a Mom.  And no, I am not a #badparent because of all this.

THESE ARE MY PERSONAL CHOICES. I do not judge any parent on what choices they made for themselves or their families. We are all just trying to make it through each day the best we can, right?

Still, the question lingers, how do I alleviate some of this guilt as every time I blink my daughter is growing and changing?

Preservation.

I make sure to carry my camera with me everywhere. Sometimes I feel like it’s just adding to the weight of my diaper bag (that is the size of a carry-on), the stroller, and car seat. Only when I start shooting does all that outside noise dissipate, and it is just me and my family focused on moments I will miss so dearly once they are gone.

It is therapeutic as well as comforting in knowing that I will have those moments preserved forever.  So that one day when life feels like I am in the middle of the Fiestas of San Fermin with bulls running over me, I will have those deeply cherished photographs to pull out, bring a smile to my face, and know that I am doing the best I can.

Finding You Time

“Behind every young child, who believes in himself, is a parent who believed first.” – Matthew Jacobson

The right time – Oh, those three little words.

To me, everything about parenthood appears to revolve around these three words. When is the right time to have a baby?  When is the right time to start solids?  When is the right time to start potty training?  When is the right time to go back to work? What is the right time to sleep before your child completely loses his mind (that ‘tipping point’)?  In all these considerations and choices, you are required to make daily how often do they revolve around you solely?  Elizabeth Stone’s words could not resonant truer.

‘Making a decision to have a child is momentous; it is to decide forever to have your heart go walking around outside your body.’

The woman nailed it!  Is this how every parent’s thought process changes instantly the moment they decide to try conceiving a baby?

Moment-by-moment, day-by-day, year-by-year, we live it.  Frankly, it’s exhausting.  These decisions and anxieties make the time pass unimaginably faster.

For me, when my world (and brain) slows down in those soft moments of cuddles and fits of laughter, or when I find myself crying because I cannot comprehend loving anyone more, I would just want to stop time and savor it.  Unfortunately, almost never are these moments preserved through images.

By booking one of my Unscripted Life Sessions, these precious moments can be held on to forever.  These photographs become an asset when the stress of managing that balance feels overwhelming or when the bonds within your family need tightening.  My sessions are structured to narrate the family stories – your story – of the chaos, love, and laughter in a way which traditional photography is unable to capture.

This balancing act of life and work is difficult and demanding. Your efforts will remain unknown and underappreciated to your children until they experience it one day.

You owe it to yourself, to have photos of you and your loved ones during these baby and adolescent years to show your strength and resilience.  When the time comes to say, ‘I remember….’ you will have images to share along with your stories.

Self Care

“You can do anything, but not everything.” – David Allen

As I write this post, I am on a plane with my two-year-old who is entertained by Sesame Street on her iPad.  Yes, I am the parent that uses the occasional screen time to get work (or ANYTHING) done.  I sometimes struggle when I find myself buried deep under a demanding career, corralling a toddler, juggling the delicate balancing act of coordinating family schedules, and squeezing in as much quality time with my husband and daughter.  I believe I am safe in saying most parents nowadays feel similar pressures.  Now, let us throw into the mix the societal influences of “parent culture” which insists you are a hands-on parent of perfection while simulating how effortless it all is.  Its doctrine states you are immediately required following the birth of your child you forget who you were moments ago.  The punishment if you do not, is the harsh judgments of other parents over your seemingly “inattentiveness.”  Let’s be real.  Be honest with yourself.  This is unattainable.  In all attempts to scale this Everest peak of parenthood you will ultimately deplete yourself to the point where there is no enjoyment through the exhaustion.  So what is a parent to do?

As the flight attendants stated prior to takeoff, put your air mask on before assisting others.

Taking care of your wellbeing will only make you a stronger – more compassionate – parent.  Cut out the noise.  Slow down your brain.  Find those moments of recharge through activities or simple enjoyments.

For me, this is yoga, running, and meditation.  Right now I have done none of those this week, and my mind is racing, my body is aching, and my fuse is short.  Quite honestly, this is not beneficial to me or those around me.

It is up to us to stop this mentality of selflessness and learn to be selfish on occasion!  My business is centered on preserving those everyday moments with you children through imagery, yet as parents, if we are always living in a state of fogginess we resort to survival mode and do not experience such times.  Moreover, then they are gone….

Do not regret missing those moments because you believed it was wrong to put yourself first every once and a while.

What do you do to recharge?  How to you manage and preserve the YOU time?  Let’s use this space as a way to share ideas and provide support to one another to make sure we encourage and judge one another through this journey.

Moments In Time

“There are two things we should give our children; one is roots, and the other is wings.”  – Hodding Carter

When clients consider scheduling an Unscripted Life Session with me one of the concerns I hear is how nerve-wracking it will be to have a photographer capture their everyday lives. The daily moments of unpreparedness combined with uncontrolled chaos in the attempts find balance in life, career, and family. I fully appreciate how documentary family photography may be approached with trepidation. Will the little ones behave? Cooperate? Which one will have the dreaded 6 PM meltdown? How will I photograph while managing all this? Will having a photographer present interrupted the family “flow?” As a parent, I know the value of having a routine with children, and yet disorder is forever present. As parents, we have to master the art of finding a balance between letting go and maintaining order. I developed The Unscripted Life Sessions because those moments are your life currently. It is honest, genuine, and in my opinion, the only way to authentically capture your family. This juggling act needs to be embraced, appreciated, and adored.

Naturally, the beginning of a session can feel a bit odd. It is strange to invite a photographer you may not know into your home without the formal barrier that traditional family portraiture provides. It is my job to make you as comfortable as quickly as possible so you can get on with your day. It is my job to capture your family through beautiful imagery. Following a Code of Ethics, photojournalists adhere to; I rely on my skillset and creative vision – not Photoshop – to provide my clients with honest photography.

Now I just have to brag a bit about one of my recent sessions. My time spent with the McRuiz family was exceptional from the moment I walked through the door. The home this beautiful family of five built is full of love, confidence, and laughter. Simply put, the vibe kept a smile on my face throughout the shoot. Having this family welcome me with such affection and excitement made my work easy! As with all young children, there was a bit of apprehension to start with, although friendships were quickly formed, as I got down on their level and asked them about themselves while we played a bit with their toys. An essential element in my process when working with young children is to get them involved right away. I show them my equipment and encourage them to interact with it. That sparks curiosity and conversation – especially when they get to view some of the images right after I shot them!

The children forgot about me as soon as it was time to bake cookies. Oh, the euphoric effect of sugar – it works every time! As the cookies were placed in the oven, the youngsters concluded it was time for a tour of their home. They showed me their bedrooms, playthings, and favorite activities. With each moment their individual and unique personalities showed through brighter and brighter! This comfort is my ultimate aim for any Unscripted Life Session. I gradually blend into the background and the families guide the shoot forward. This is when the imagery begins to takes on a life of its own. There is no greater feeling of reward as a photographer when this flow is established.

The McRuiz family are the subjects of some of my personal favorite Unscripted Life Session photographs to date! I cannot express my gratitude adequately enough that I was allowed the chance to spend the day with them. I look forward to the documenting the growth and love of this family in future Unscripted Life Sessions.

Life's Direction

“Be weird. Be random. Be who you are. Because you never know who would love the person you hide” C.S. Lewis

As a parent, I know that there will be obstacles my daughter will face throughout her life that may impact her values and convictions. We all have been there. Those uncomfortable feelings of wavering or instability. Whether it be navigating conflicts in friendships or relationships, questioning her current morals sparked by social, political, or environmental conditions. Or simply maturity. In her passages from adolescence, into the turbulent teenage years, and later on into adulthood, I hope I can teach – and possibly guide her – based on my adventures on my life’s journey thus far.

First lesson my Emilia, one of my primary drives as your mother is to make sure you never feel alone or unsupported. I am certain most of us have lived through such moments at one point or another in our lifetimes. You may feel as though you are alone at that moment, yet I will drill into you daily I will be there to catch you when you stumble. I may not always agree with your chooses, but you will never feel unsupported. Life is full of learning and growing from those times we wished we had responded differently.

No matter the struggle, your individuality is what makes you beautiful and unique. Individuality is the creator of love and, unfortunately, hate. Embrace your authenticity and rise above the overbearing status quo. Do not feel as though you must agree with another’s opinions just to appease them. Build your views through knowledge and investigation, not just on the rhetoric of others. Individuality shines the brightest through confidence and compassion. Choose your words carefully. Back them with strength and sincerity. Do not suppress your passions in fear of judgment. The road less traveled can be the most scenic route to take.

Do not forget our night mantra, “I am strong. I am peaceful. And I am kind.” Let those words be the foundation on all your ventures.

Decision Maker

“Families are like branches on a tree. We grow in different directions, yet our roots remain as one.” – Unknown

One of the most incredible elements of being a documentary photographer is that I can photograph my daughter discovering her sense of self as she grows and develops. The images I shoot are a reminder that in those moments she only knows what I – and those that care for her – teach her. Her sense of the world is one we have molded. This time is fleeting, and now that she is two, I am seeing her begin to make conscious decisions for herself – to form her own opinions and develop her own ideas on life. Right now I recognize that my views and beliefs resonate with her in a unique way. This is what inspires me to keep snapping images. To keep capturing these passing times. I want them to stand still indefinitely for her to look back on.

My career enables me to catch these strides towards maturity for Emilia, my husband, and me to hold on to. I designed The Unscripted Life Sessions to provide my client with this possibility as well. To present them with these extraordinary moments to reflect on, laugh about, remember, and to share with family and friends now and in the future. As a photographer, there is great satisfaction in knowing that the families I work with will have the opportunity to appreciate these unique moments as much as I do with my own.

Our Children

On Children

 Kahlil Gibran

Your children are not your children.
They are the sons and daughters of Life’s longing for itself.
They come through you but not from you,
And though they are with you yet they belong not to you.

You may give them your love but not your thoughts,
For they have their own thoughts.
You may house their bodies but not their souls,
For their souls dwell in the house of tomorrow,
which you cannot visit, not even in your dreams.
You may strive to be like them,
but seek not to make them like you.
For life goes not backward nor tarries with yesterday.

You are the bows from which your children
as living arrows are sent forth.
The archer sees the mark upon the path of the infinite,
and He bends you with His might
that His arrows may go swift and far.
Let your bending in the archer’s hand be for gladness;
For even as He loves the arrow that flies,
so He loves also the bow that is stable.