The Joy of Photographing Families Year After Year

There’s something magical about watching a family grow through my lens. One moment, I’m photographing toddlers in their parent’s arms. Fast forward a year or two, and those same little ones are racing toward me with toothy grins, remembering our jokes, our rhythm, and even what comes after the session (spoiler: it’s usually ice cream).

I carry those memories with me… the way Coen always flashes his quiet, knowing smile, or the way Jones wants everyone laughing right along with him, or how little Davis tucks in close, softly smiling as if to say, “I’m still figuring it all out.” It’s those little changes year after year that get me every time.

This blog isn’t about a specific session or how to plan the perfect outfit. It’s about the heart of why returning clients mean the world to me – and how that connection shapes the most meaningful photographs.

Why Returning Families Mean So Much

If you’ve worked with me at before, you probably already know: I don’t treat photo sessions like transactions. You’re not just another date on my calendar. You’re part of something much more precious.

There are a few families who have come back to me year after year. And truly, my heart swells every single time.

Watching your kids grow more and more confident in front of my camera, recognizing me, feeling safe and even silly – that means everything. Each session becomes less about poses and more about playing, laughing, and that unspoken trust we’ve built together.

One family in particular – The Look Family – Jessica, Nick, and their three boys: Coen, Jones, and Davis – stayed with me through seasons and stages. From the beginning, Jessica came in with a vision for how she wanted their photos to look. And honestly? At first, I hesitated. The vibe she was going for wasn’t quite my typical editing style, and I wondered if trying to shift would compromise what I love most about how I work.

But I trusted my gut, made small tweaks where it felt right, and we tried it her way. She was blown away. And I was too. Because we created something beautiful together.

Then the next year… and the year after that… she didn’t ask for any changes. She loved what we created. And each time, we made magic. The boys were more themselves every year, and the love between all five of them became even more fun to capture.

How Returning Sessions Create Deeper Photos

When I photograph a family year after year, something beautiful starts to happen. Not just in how the pictures turn out, but in the entire experience.

1. Familiarity Builds Confidence

No awkward getting-to-know-you time. Your kids (and you) already recognize me, and that familiarity builds comfort. You already know a bit of how I work, I already know how your little ones tick, and together, we can slip right into the fun part.

• Fewer nerves
• More natural laughter
• Easier posing (that doesn’t feel like posing at all)

2. We Capture Your Story in Seasons

I love watching how your story unfolds – new baby bumps, missing teeth, a shift in how siblings cuddle up to one another. We’re not just documenting faces, we’re weaving together a longer story over time. And that’s where legacy lives.

• The same park, one year older
• The same pose, but now holding hands
• A new member of the family added to the frame

3. Your Trust Makes Room for Magic

Clients like Jessica have given me one of the greatest gifts: their trust. That trust gives me space to slow down, shoot from the heart, and get creative. I know I’m not just hired to take pretty pictures – I’m invited to witness something truly meaningful.

• More room for authentic emotion
• Better flexibility with light and locations
• Moments that matter most, captured naturally

It’s Not Just About Photos – It’s About Connection

I can’t lie – when those holiday cards roll into my mailbox each year with photos we made together, I genuinely light up. I tape them to the fridge or pin them to the wall because they’re not just clients. They’re part of my journey, too.

To families who return every year: thank you. Thank you for making space for me in your story, for letting me cheer on your kiddos as they grow, and for trusting me to see the beauty in your chaos, your quiet moments, and your joy.

You make this work feel rich and alive.

Want to Start a Tradition of Your Own?

If you’ve been hoping to find a family photographer in Orange County who doesn’t just snap the shots, but sees your heart and holds your story with care – I’d be honored to connect.

Whether it’s your very first session or year five, you’re always welcome with me. I’ll bring the calm in the chaos, the gentle direction, and maybe even remind you to get that post-session ice cream.

You can learn more about my approach and availability by heading to terialinaphotography.com. Let’s make this year one worth remembering forever.

And to the ones who keep coming back? My heart is always with you.