Why Family Photography Matters (Even When Life Feels Messy)

I was looking through old photos the other day—the kind you hold in your hands, not the ones lost in the depths of your camera roll. And there it was: a slightly crooked, slightly faded shot of my family from years ago. The kids were little, my husband and I looked so young, and the outfits? Questionable at best. But the love? Undeniable.

Rayford Family Thanksgiving 2012

That’s when it hit me: this is why family photography matters.

We always think we have more time

I can’t count how many times I’ve heard (or said):

  • “We’ll do photos next year.”

  • “I need to lose a little weight first.”

  • “Life is just too hectic right now.”

But here’s the thing—life never slows down. One minute, your baby is gripping your finger with their tiny hands; the next, they’re asking for the car keys. And if we don’t stop to capture the moments in between, they slip away without us even realizing.

Your Kids Don’t Care About Perfection—They Care About You

I promise you, years from now, your kids won’t look at your family photos and think, Mom should’ve waited until she lost 10 pounds or Dad’s hairline was looking a little rough. 

They’ll see love. The way you held them, the way they fit perfectly in your lap, the way you looked at them with so much pride.

And one day, when they’re older, those photos will be priceless.

This is your sign–stop waiting...

If you’ve been putting off family photos, consider this your reminder:

The right time isn’t next year. It’s now.

Rayford family & my mom February April 2025

Messy, wild, imperfect, beautiful now.

And if you need someone to capture it? 

I’m ready when you are. 

With love, 

Sheree