Behind the Scenes of a Family Photography Mentorship Session

This session came together as part of a family photography shoot-along mentorship, but what unfolded felt much bigger than a lesson plan.

Alex and her family were generous enough to step into this space with us, to open their lives, their connection, their real rhythms, and that kind of trust is never lost on me. There’s something deeply grounding about learning alongside a real family, in real light, with real movement happening all around you.

When I invite someone into a shoot-along mentorship, we move slowly from the very beginning. We talk about what kind of family would feel supportive for learning. We imagine the energy of the session. We choose people who will move, connect, play, and be themselves, because that’s where the good stuff lives.

The Miller family was exactly that.

Three kids. Big feelings. Layered relationships. The kind of dynamic that asks you to stay present and responsive rather than “in control.” It was a beautiful environment for learning, not because everything went perfectly, but because everything was real.

During the session, we talked through moments as they unfolded. How to read light without rushing it. How to anticipate connection instead of forcing it. How to stay calm when things feel unpredictable. We let the family lead, and we followed with curiosity rather than expectation.

These kinds of sessions fill me in a way that’s hard to explain.

There’s something special about sharing space like this, about remembering that photography isn’t just technical, and growth isn’t linear. It happens in conversation, in observation, in showing up with openness instead of answers.

Learning photography doesn’t have to happen in isolation. It doesn’t have to feel competitive or lonely or overwhelming. It can feel like being invited into something real, with room to breathe and ask questions along the way.

Come along with me, friend.
There’s room for you here.