fisher family beach shoot

I hate being in front of the camera. I'm a behind the scenes kind of gal. But getting out of my comfort zone to take family photos is so worth it. Olive and Ruby are growing up so fast, and while we're constantly taking photos of them on our phones, it's just not the same. And the last time we did photos with the entire Fisher side was three years ago when I was pregnant with Olive. So I love having both girls actually in the photos this time!These beautiful photos were taken by Stephanie of Saltwater Studios. Not only is she extremely talented, but Steph is so sweet and patient. I want to emphasize patient and say it three more times. That's how much I mean it. Kids are wildcards, and she never loses her cool. You can't tell from these photos, but Olive was not having her best day, and Steph still managed to get these amazing shots. She has just the kind of calm energy you want around you on your wedding day, and her husband Brent is a cinematographer. Talk about match made in heaven!Here are few tips if you're taking family or engagement photos...1. Coordinate (not match) your outfits. This way, nobody looks out of place, but everyone still gets to be themselves and wear something true to their personality.2. Read this blog post on Maskcara to learn how to look your best in photos. Turtle neck (not to be confused with the type of shirt) and good posture are my favs!3. For the posed shots, keep smiling and looking at the camera (especially if there are young kids in the shot). The kids will be looking and smiling in 1/10th of the photos, so you want to make sure you're looking and smiling in the shots that they are.4. Relax, smile, and have fun! While we have the traditional posed shots, some of my favorite photos are the candid ones where we're in between shots and just having fun on the beach.

images via saltwater studios