I don’t like to do family portraits in a studio because I think it’s too formal and stiff for most families – and for me. I like to play and laugh, I like to get the kids running around, I like to incorporate the environment into our photos as much as possible. For that reason, I prefer to do family portrait sessions outdoors. Most often, I travel to families’ homes for their portrait sessions. But if the yard isn’t big enough (or pretty enough) we can meet at a local park. Being outside allows the kids to be themselves and the parents to get involved in the play, resulting in a lot of natural laughter and silliness. When kids can play and act like kids, I think it results in the best family photos!