By Cheryl Eagers, Professional Photographer at Cherish Artz
As a family photographer, I know how important it is to create meaningful photos that capture your family’s love and connection. At the same time, many parents today are choosing to keep their children’s faces off social media to protect their privacy. Fortunately, there are plenty of creative ways to photograph these cherished moments that are both beautiful and shareable without revealing too much.
When I photograph families, I often guide them with poses and creative ideas that allow for stunning results, ensuring you can confidently share highlights from your session. Here are some tried-and-true techniques I love to use:
Highlight the Details
Some of the most memorable photos are in the tiny details. A close-up of your baby’s little hands holding yours, the curve of their cheek nestled into your shoulder, or a shot of tiny toes peeking out from a blanket can speak volumes. These images capture the essence of your bond without showing faces and often become the most treasured keepsakes.
Get Playful With Movement
Action shots are a fantastic way to create energy and joy in your photos while keeping faces less visible. Encourage your little ones to run, jump, or spin. Parents can toss their baby in the air or twirl their toddler around. These dynamic moments are natural and engaging while allowing me to focus on the movement instead of facial features.
Embrace the Power of Props
Props can add personality to your photos while also helping to obscure faces. A bouquet of flowers, sunglasses, or even a favorite toy can transform the feel of the image. Seasonal props—like Christmas ornaments, a big scoop of ice cream in summer, or cozy scarves in winter—can enhance the story and make the session even more fun for little ones.
Create Connection Through Closeness
Laughing together, close-up hugs and snuggles are a wonderful way to capture the love in your family. These moments feel intimate and natural, showing connection and emotion rather than focusing on faces. A parent giggling with or comforting a child or a sibling group sharing a tight embrace creates timeless images that are perfect for sharing.
Walk Into the Moment
One of my favorite poses is having families walk away from the camera, hand in hand. This simple yet effective technique shows togetherness and movement, keeping the focus on the story rather than individual faces. You can make it playful by skipping, running, or twirling, or keep it heartfelt with a slow, quiet stroll.
Think Big Picture
Take the story beyond the faces by zooming out. Capture wide shots of your family in a beautiful location—whether it’s walking along the beach, exploring a forest, or playing in the backyard. The emphasis shifts to the environment and the energy of the moment, creating images that are as artistic as they are meaningful.
Memories That Are Beautiful and Safe
Every family has a unique story, and photography is a powerful way to tell it. By including a mix of detailed close-ups, playful action shots, and creative use of props, we can create images that bring joy to your family while protecting your privacy.
At Cherish Artz, I’m here to help you find the balance between capturing your family’s personality and respecting your boundaries.
