Curating Storytelling Family Sessions in Northern Michigan
There is a quiet magic in the way your toddler holds your thumb with their whole hand, the unrestrained belly laughs during a game of tag on the beach, and the soft, in-between glances that happen when no one is telling you to "say cheese."
As a Traverse City family photographer, my goal isn't to get your family to sit perfectly still in a row for an hour. It’s to create a relaxed, playful space where you can focus on loving each other while I capture the authentic story of this season in your lives.
Whether you call Northern Michigan home or you’re making summer memories along the shoreline, welcome. I’m so glad you’re here.
Meet the Photographer
Hey, my name is Kaitlyn
I'm a social coffee drinker, mom of three, married my highschool sweetheart, and my faith is very important to me.
My favorite shows are The Office and Parks & Rec. I love documentaries and a healthy dose of true crime.
I moved to Traverse City when I was in highschool and aside from my time in college, we have stayed here. My husband and I put down roots and built our family home, doing most of the work ourselves. Aside from photography I enjoy interior design and spending time with my family.
Keep reading to learn more about my approach to photography and what booking a session with me would look like.
My Approach: Storytelling Over Stiff Posing
If the thought of convincing your kids (or your partner) to stand still and smile at a camera lens feels exhausting, you’re in the right place. I believe the best photographs aren't forced—they are felt.
During a Cedar & Sage family session, we focus on movement and connection.
"Say cheese!" : I can fully appreciate the desire to have one posed family portrait where everyone is smiling at the camera - I want you to have that too! The perfect shots just won't be the main focus of our session. I’ll give you gentle, interactive prompts instead of rigid poses to create images that look and feel like candids. I'll also grab real candids during the in-between moments, those often end up being some of my favorites.
Space for Kids to Be Kids: Toddlers elope, babies cry, and kids get sandy. We go with the flow, follow their curiosity, and work with their interests.
Preserving Real Memories: Years from now, you won't just remember what you looked like—you’ll remember how it felt to hold your family close in Northern Michigan.
The Best Northern Michigan Backdrops for Your Session
Traverse City and the surrounding area (think Leland, Glen Arbor, Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore, Elk Rapids) offer some of the most stunning, diverse landscapes in the Midwest. Part of my job is helping you choose a location that feels meaningful and comfortable for your family.
A few favorite local settings include:
Coastal Beaches & Dunes: Perfect for barefoot shoreline play at sunset, from Esch Beach to the sweeping vistas of Sleeping Bear Dunes. (Read my full guide to the Best Traverse City Family Photo Locations to explore more spots).
Secret Walled Garden & Rolling Fields: Open meadows, historic stone walls, and tree-lined paths at Historic Barns Park provide a calm, easily accessible setting for little legs.
Historic Barns: DeYoung Natural Area and Timbers Recreation Area stand out as those peaceful backgrounds that feel like home with the texture of old barnwood and fieldstone walls.
Your Own Home: For newborn milestones or quiet Sunday morning vibes, an in-home (or in-airbnb) lifestyle session captures your family in the space where you're most comfortable.
What to Expect
From Booking to viewing your gallery
Planning a family photo session shouldn't feel like a chore. Here is how we work together to keep things seamless and relaxed:
1. Initial Contact + Booking
After you submit the inquiry form I will answer any initial questions you have and confirm if I would be a good fit for your family in terms of availability, budget, and desired style. Booking through my booking site takes about 5 minutes - you'll select your session, sign a contact, fill out your questionnaire, and pay your retainer.
2.Planning for your session
In your booking confirmation you'll receive a session guide with wardrobe tips and information on how to prepare. I love helping with wardrobe so feel free to reach out!
3. Session Day (Just Play!)
We’ll meet at our chosen location and agreed time. All you need to do is show up, breathe, and hang out with your favorite people. I’ll handle the rest.
4. Your Final Gallery
Within a few weeks, you’ll receive a private online gallery filled with high-resolution, hand-edited images ready to download, print, and hang on your walls.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should we wear for our family photos?
Aim for complementary colors and rich textures (linen, knits, soft cotton) rather than perfectly matching outfits. Neutral tones, muted earth tones, and warm soft hues look stunning against Northern Michigan’s natural landscapes and best with my editing style. You'll receive a session guide after booking that includes more tips on what to wear!
What if my kids don't cooperate?
Some of the most beautiful, tender images happen during wild, unscripted moments. We take breaks whenever needed, and we never force a moment that isn't happening naturally. If you're worried about this I would strongly encourage you to book an experience or in-home session so the session is built around getting ice cream, playing in the sprinkler, or playing at your favorite park.
How far in advance should we book?
Summer and peak fall foliage (September/October) in Traverse City book out several months in advance. Reaching out early guarantees we can secure golden hour timing for your preferred dates! If you're looking for something more last-minute please don't hesitate to reach out - we can usually work something out and if not, I'll refer you to another photographer who will be great.
Let’s Create Something Memorable Together
If you’re looking for a Traverse City family photographer who values real moments over perfection, I’d love to document this chapter for you.
