Bay Area Family Photography
An thoughtful approach to family sessions that feels natural, not forced
What Is Professional Lifestyle Family Photography (and Is It Right for Your Family?)
Lifestyle family photography focuses on real connection instead of perfect poses. Sessions are guided but flexible, allowing kids to move, explore, and interact naturally while still being photographed beautifully. This approach works exceptionally well for families with toddlers and young children who don’t thrive in rigid or highly structured sessions.
If you’re looking for family photos in the Bay Area that feel natural, relaxed, and true to how your family actually is, my sessions remove the pressure to perform. I lead the space with calm direction and playful prompts so parents can stay present while I manage the flow, energy, and moments as they unfold.
Let me take the lead and you relax.
“We were so lucky to have Ellen photograph our family.
Ellen knew all the little hidden spots with the best light, and somehow timed everything so the photos look effortless even though we were juggling snacks, kids, and everyone’s moods. She’s amazing with kids too, which took so much pressure off.
What I loved most was how she captured us just being ourselves. Nothing felt stiff or overly posed. The photos have this warm, natural vibe, like she caught the tiny moments you don’t realize you’ll want to remember until later. If you’re looking for someone who knows the area, knows families, and knows how to bring out real connection, Ellen is absolutely the one."
— JW, San Francisco mom of two
What FamiLies Say about the Bay Area family photographer
kaitlyn, Burlingame Toddler Mom
“Ellen is absolutely incredible! She is organized from beginning to end. She provided outfit recommendations, selected the perfect venue and answered any questions we had leading up to the shoot.”
She captured our family photos so beautifully and made the whole experience feel natural and fun, even with two little ones in the mix. The photos turned out better than I could have imagined. They were warm, genuine, and full of joy. We’ll treasure these forever and can’t wait to work with her again!
Tammy, San Mateo Toddler Mom
“Ellen did her research and already had the art direction in her mind, so she was super efficient and knew exactly where to put us. We got so many amazing photos in less than an hour! "
You can tell that Ellen is very professional and passionate about being a photographer. She scoped out the location ahead of time and was so patient with my four-year-old son who is a tornado! As a parent, it can be challenging to bring little ones to something that can be so demanding.
Jenny, Millbrae Toddler MOm
“Ellen did such a wonderful job with our family photos! This was our very first time taking professional pictures as a family and with a two-year-old”
...we weren’t sure how it would go. But Ellen made us feel comfortable right away and captured the most beautiful, natural moments. Even though we were running late and our session time was shorter than planned, she was incredibly understanding and still managed to take so many amazing shots. We’re so happy with how everything turned out and can’t wait to work with her again for future family milestones!
“5/5 stars for an amazing experience and stunning family portraits!"
- Janey, Mom of 3
Family Photos That Feel Easy And Thoughtfully Led
Family sessions are designed to feel easy from the moment we start, especially for families with toddlers and young children. You don’t need to worry about cooperation, energy levels, or things feeling forced. I guide the session with a calm, flexible approach so kids can warm up at their own pace while parents stay present and relaxed.
Pricing reflects a fully supported experience, from planning through your final gallery. Sessions are thoughtfully paced and gently directed, with plenty of room for real moments to unfold. The focus is on connection over perfection, and photos that feel like your family rather than a performance.
Feature Family Photo Sessions From The Bay Area
Feature Family Photo Sessions From The Bay Area
Read more about this playful golden hour session at Redwood Grove in Los Altos. It feels private, magical, and kid friendly all at once. A perfect backdrop for fun and laidback family photos.
Explore the Arizona Cactus Garden in Palo Alto. Natural light, warm smiles, and a unique landscape make this Stanford University spot feel relaxed and memorable.
Kohl Mansion in Burlingame is a favorite among parents. The open grounds feel spacious and calm, giving kids room to move while still providing a polished, timeless backdrop.
Toddlers aren’t asked to sit still or smile on command. Movement and curiosity are part of the process, not a problem to fix.
I guide the session so parents don’t have to manage behavior or worry about what’s “working.” You can stay present while I handle the flow.
Whether your child takes time to warm up or jumps right in, I adapt in real time and meet them where they are.
The best photos often come from in-between moments. Laughter, connection, and personality matter more than cooperation.
Toddlers don’t need to behave for photos to work. They need space, patience, and someone who knows when to lead and when to let things unfold.