Wrangling a Family of Six: Our Experience with Kelly and Craig Photography
Let’s be real—organizing a family of six for a photoshoot is no joke. Between finding outfits, managing different personalities, and picking the right photographer, it can feel like an impossible task. But, once you find that perfect photographer, everything else falls into place. For me, that photographer was Kelly and Craig, and I’m so glad we crossed paths two years ago during a branding photoshoot they did for me. That experience was my first introduction to their incredible work, and when it came time for family photos, I knew exactly who to call.
The First Step: Getting to Know You
After our branding shoot, I knew Kelly and Craig were not only talented but also had a gift for making people feel comfortable in front of the camera (that’s so important with little ones!). So when I reached out for a family shoot, I knew the process would be seamless. It all starts with an easy inquiry on their website, and from there, you receive a personalized questionnaire that covers everything from the number of people in your session to location preferences and even details like the kids' ages. They keep everything organized in a personal portal through Honeybook, which is such a lifesaver for busy families like mine.
We also had a discovery call with Kelly to plan the details, like styling, wardrobe, and any specific moments we wanted to capture. That extra level of care makes all the difference. They really take the time to get to know your family and your vision for the shoot.
Capturing Your Story
What sets Kelly and Craig apart is that they’re not just photographers—they’re storytellers. Their goal is to visually communicate your family’s connection, values, and traditions. Whether you’re looking for images for your living room, office, or even your social media feed, they’ve got you covered. After your session, all your images are shared in a private online gallery.
Picking Outfits: The Real Challenge
Now, let’s talk about outfits. Coordinating looks for a family of six can be overwhelming, but Kelly and Craig make this part easier with their Pinterest mood board. At first, I was all about coral tones, but when I started shopping, neutrals and greens were calling my name. I found a cute dress for my daughter, and from there, everything just came together. That’s usually how it goes—I find one piece I love, and the rest falls into place!
The Session: Beach Vibes and Fart Noises
This was our first-ever beach session, and I wasn’t sure what to expect. Kelly and Craig arrived with a wagon full of gear—cameras, lights, and even props like blankets to use for different looks. They wasted no time getting started, taking full advantage of the natural light and beach setting.
What I loved most was how they worked with the kids. With two photographers, they were able to split us up and capture different shots—family portraits, individual moments, mother-son and father-daughter pictures, and even solo shots of each child. It was a whirlwind, but they made it feel effortless.
My youngest, Nico, was not thrilled at the start. He gave them his signature "mean face," but Kelly and Craig weren’t discouraged. They tried severally things to make Nico laugh and eventually found the magic key to his smile: fart noises. Yes, fart noises. Once they figured out what made him laugh, Nico was all smiles for the rest of the shoot. It was one of those moments where you realize just how much they care about capturing your family’s authentic personalities.
Overcoming Challenges
Of course, there were challenges—like the wind. It was a cooler than normal September day, and the breeze was pretty strong. But Kelly and Craig handled it like pros, adjusting our positions to work with the wind instead of against it. And, of course, I had my own wardrobe mishap—not realizing just how sheer my dress was 🫣 (check the mirror before you leave!). But Kelly and Craig were so gracious and made sure I felt comfortable throughout the entire session.
Why We Love Kelly and Craig
Having worked with them on my personal branding shoot two years ago, I knew Kelly and Craig were top-notch. But seeing how they handled our family session only solidified that belief. They captured more than just photos—they captured our family’s story in a way that felt authentic and true to who we are. From the beginning stages of planning to the final images, they made everything easy and enjoyable.
If you’re looking for photographers who can connect with your family, create beautiful heirloom-quality art, and make the entire experience feel special, Kelly and Craig are the ones to call. Family photos are an investment in your family’s legacy, and after working with them, I can confidently say it’s one worth making.