My Teaching Background & Family Photo Sessions | Delaware Beach Vacations

Your kids might throw a tantrum, refuse to smile, or engage in a full-on sibling smackdown during your family photo session, let me start by saying: I’ve seen it all. Before becoming a professional family photographer, I spent years as a teacher. So, not only can I capture your little ones’ best smiles, but I can also handle anything your session throws my way—literally (yes, I’ve dodged rogue toys, sand, and been poked with sticks.)

Kids Are My Superpower

As a former teacher, I’ve studied child development and special education while spending countless hours in the beach and school trenches with toddlers, tweens, and teens. I know how to connect with them, and—most importantly—how to diffuse any situation before it escalates. Whether it’s coaxing a shy child out of their shell or helping an energetic toddler focus long enough for a family portrait, I’ve got tricks up my sleeve that even Miss Rachel would envy.

Sibling Rivalry? Bring It On!

Let’s talk about siblings for a moment. If you’re worried about your kids fighting during the session, don’t be. I’ve broken up playground feuds and mediated disputes over who got to use the blue crayon—and I’ve learned how to turn those moments into opportunities for connection. When tensions rise, I’ll gently guide your kiddos into a game, a silly prompt, or a secret mission to “beat the grown-ups” by making mom and dad laugh first.

And if someone lands a surprise punch? No worries. I’ve got quick reflexes and a healthy sense of humor. After all, no photo session is complete without a story to tell.

Tantrum? No Problem

Every parent’s worst nightmare: the mid-session meltdown. Here’s the thing—kids are human, and emotions are part of the package. If a meltdown happens, I’ll meet your child where they are. Sometimes that means taking a break, sometimes it means turning the moment into a photo-worthy cuddle with mom or dad, and sometimes it means pulling out my secret weapon: a silly face or an exaggerated sneeze that’s guaranteed to bring out the giggles.

Hitting the Photographer? Let’s Laugh About It

Okay, let’s address the elephant in the room—or, more accurately, the small hand that might come flying my way. Yes, I’ve been hit before, and you know what? It’s not the end of the world. I’ll handle it with grace (and maybe a dramatic “Oh no, you got me!” for comedic effect). These things happen, and I promise it’s nothing I can’t handle. We’ll all laugh about it later.

Making Parents Feel at Ease

Here’s the bottom line: kids will be kids. My goal is to create a relaxed, judgment-free environment where your family can be yourselves. It’s in those real moments—the laughter, the chaos, the tender hugs—that the magic happens. My job isn’t just to take pretty pictures; it’s to capture your family’s unique story, tantrums and all.

So, when you’re prepping for your session, don’t stress about perfection. Come as you are, and trust that I’ve got you. After all, if I could survive teaching a room full of sugar-fueled second graders the week before winter break, I can certainly handle your crew.