How to Create Real Moments During Your Family Session

September 29, 2025 Ginny Thomas

Forget stiff poses and forced smiles. The real magic happens in between. Here's how we create authentic, connected moments that feel like you.

Ginny is a branding, family, newborn photographer in the Maryland/DC area.
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As the year comes to a close, I’m reflecting on how lucky I am to do this work and work with such thoughtful people.

If we worked together this year and you’ve been meaning to leave a review but just haven’t gotten around to it yet

Some of the best Christmas moments aren’t the ones we plan.

On Sunday I woke up to laughter and the sound of gingerbread house decorating happening in the kitchen. I wasn’t even part of the plan. I just got to walk in and soak it up.

Wh

Wrapped and ready.

My last sessions of the year are officially delivered, and I’m stepping into full holiday mode over here. Cozy lights, too many blankets, and a tree that makes the whole house glow.

This season, I’m trading memory car

The boys were sick, so it was girls day out for Christmas at the Gaylord & ICE! Exhibit! It was 🥶but a great experience! 🎄

Two months old and already full of charm
George gave us all the good stuff during his in-home newborn session...snuggles, stretches, sleepy smiles, and sweet eye contact.

At this age, babies are more awake, more expressive, and still totally snuggl

Some families feel like old friends, and this one is definitely that. We’ve shared some sweet seasons together, and their Christmas PJ's mini at my Silver Spring studio was another great one!

Olivia brought her sweet personality, and a green d

Our neighborhood Santa visit…I’m not sure who was more uncomfortable, but he tried!!

Here are a few simple tips to help you use your phone to capture all the fun, cozy and chaotic moments happening around you this season. No fancy gear needed. Just good light, real smiles and the little details that make the holidays feel like your f

🎄15 minutes. One cozy studio. A whole lot of joy.

This sweet family comes back every year for their Christmas mini session; and I totally get why.

• It’s quick (we’re done in 15)
• The studio is warm and weather-proof
•

“We only need one good photo…”

Yep. And sometimes that one photo is hiding behind:
• 12 blinking shots
• 5 look-aways
• 3 epic meltdowns
• 2 runaways
• and one heroic parent who kept smiling through it all