Come As You Are
Seattle Portrait Photographer
Do you ever mishear a lyric and like your version better? For the longest time, I though the lyric to the Nirvana song Come as You Are was,
Come as you are, as you were, as I want you to be, as a friend, as a friend, as an old memory…
Turns out it was always:
As an old enemy.
I spent years of my life singing enemy as memory. I liked the ring of old memory a lot better don’t you? I’d much rather make memories than enemies. And come as you are as an old memory fits my business model better, TBH.
That's how I want you to come to me. I want you to come as you are. We’re making memories together, and the art is in how I capture you, not in the pretense of a perfect Pinterest-worthy family portrait. That being said, I have a few tips for you to “come as you are,” while still feeling amazing on your session day!
Genuine Connection
I like coordination as much as the next photographer, I am not going to lie. But I also think that there are stages in life where just getting your kids to leave the house with pants on is a feat. I’ve had kiddos show up with baskets of bathing suits that they won’t let go of the entire session, Halloween dresses in the summertime, princess dresses that twirl the best, and superhero capes. And I am here for all of it.
Authenticity matters to me (and to you). I show up to sessions as my true, authentic self, and I want you to do the same. I am goofy, funny, serious, and real when I am with you. Why? Because I want you to trust me to capture the heart of your family. When you show up as your true self, it shows. It shows in how you interact with them, and it fosters a genuine connection between you, me, and the camera. When you come as you are, authenticity shines through in every frame, capturing the essence of who you are and the relationships you cherish. Forget the stiff poses and the forced smiles. This is the time to let loose and be yourself!
Comfort and Confidence
One of the things that often stresses families out is choosing outfits for a session. It’s so hard to choose perfectly coordinated outfits when you’re juggling a million things as a parent. Not to mention, some of those perfectly coordinated family looks can get a little pricy. This becomes a big stressor for some families and an excuse to put off the photo session for another year. I don’t want you to miss out on memories because your little buddy is in his Captain America phase and will not take off his costume for any longer than it takes to throw it in the wash a couple times a week.
And while I love a fashionable family as much as the next person, I also love it when kids show up in the princess dress they have been wearing every day for a month because it makes them feel beautiful, or rocking a superhero cape, or donning those yellow rain boots so they can make the most out of those Seattle puddles. It’s not perfection we are capturing. It’s connection. Your family’s unique style is what makes the memories truly shine! Embracing your authentic self allows you to feel comfortable and confident during the photo session. When you’re relaxed and at ease, your natural expressions and emotions can be effortlessly captured, resulting in timeless and meaningful images. So come as you are. But if you would like some style help, check out my blog post on how to create a look that’s great for your next family session.
Memories that Reflect You
Authenticity isn’t just encouraged, it’s celebrated. Come dressed to the nines, in outfits you sewed yourself, or in costume, because it’s how your family loves each other that I am interested in capturing. Choosing to come as you are ensures that the photographs reflect your unique personality, style, and story. Whether it’s a joyful laugh, a tender moment, or a quirky expression, these authentic moments will become cherished memories that you’ll treasure for years to come. Because when you let go of perfection and choose to embrace the joyful, silly, and sometimes ridiculous moments with your family, the result is a gallery full of authentic, laughter-filled memories that you’ll cherish forever.
Let’s capture those authentic memories. Please, come as you are and we will have the best time. I cannot wait to see you in front of my lens. Click the button below to start your authentic photography experience.
P.S. I used to have my own Superhero back in the day. I feel you, mama. I really do. Here’s my once-upon-a-time Spiderman playing tea party with his baby sister. He was always in costume, most of the time it was Captain America. I wouldn’t have changed it for the world.