Creating Memories: The Importance of Annual Family Photo Sessions
Time moves fast, and before you know it, your little ones aren’t so little anymore. Life is full of milestones—first steps, missing teeth, growing inches taller—but those everyday moments in between are just as precious. That’s why annual family photo sessions are so important. They freeze time, preserving the love, laughter, and connection that make your family unique. Photos show the journey of your family and the love and joy throughout the years.
As a Wausau, Wisconsin family photographer, I’ve had the honor of capturing countless families throughout the years, and one thing I hear often is, “I wish we had started doing this sooner.” Let’s dive into why making annual family sessions a tradition is one of the best decisions you can make.
1. Your Family is Always Changing
Kids grow, parents evolve, and family dynamics shift. Annual family portraits document these changes, creating a visual timeline of your journey together. Whether it’s watching your children grow up or capturing the bond between generations, these images become priceless heirlooms you’ll cherish forever.
Imagine flipping through an album years from now, reminiscing about the little quirks and expressions that defined each stage of life. These photos become part of your family’s story.
2. Professional Photos Are Timeless Keepsakes
While phone snapshots are great for everyday moments, a professional family photo session ensures that you get high-quality, beautifully composed images that truly capture your family’s essence. I guide my clients every step of the way—from choosing the perfect location to helping with wardrobe coordination—so that their images look natural, polished, and full of life.
Professional prints and albums hold up over time, allowing you to pass down these memories for generations. Digital images can get lost or forgotten, but a framed family portrait on the wall becomes a daily reminder of love and connection.
3. It’s More Than Just Photos, It’s an Experience
Many families hesitate to book a session because they’re worried about their kids behaving, feeling awkward in front of the camera, or not knowing what to do. But trust me, this is exactly why you need a photographer who knows how to guide you!
Here’s what makes a session with me different:
A fun, relaxed atmosphere. I keep things lighthearted and natural, so even the most camera-shy family members feel at ease.
Candid and authentic moments. Instead of stiff poses, I focus on real interactions—laughs, cuddles, and all the little moments in between.
A stress-free experience. From planning to session day, I help with everything, including choosing outfits and locations, so you can just show up and enjoy the experience.
4. Strengthening Family Bonds
Life is busy, and it’s easy to let quality time slip away in the midst of daily routines. A family photo session isn’t just about the photos—it’s an opportunity to pause, connect, and enjoy each other’s company without distractions.
Many families tell me that their session felt like a fun little adventure—whether it was playing in a field at sunset, exploring a scenic park, or cozying up together at home. These moments become memories in themselves, making the experience just as meaningful as the final images.
5. A Tradition Your Family Will Treasure
One of the most beautiful things about annual family photo sessions is how they become a tradition. Kids look forward to them, seeing how they’ve grown year after year. You’ll never regret having too many photos—but you may regret not having enough.
By making family photography a yearly habit, you’re giving yourself a gift that only becomes more valuable with time.
What Clients Have Said About Their Annual Family Photo Sessions:
“I can’t say enough about Kelly! My boys are 18 and 20. From childhood through senior photos, and now beyond, she has captured our most important moments, that have now become beautiful, treasured memories in pictures. She knows how to make everyone feel comfortable and confident, and her passion, eye for detail, and heart truly shine through in every photo!” - Christina
“Every session that we have had with Kelly has been memorable not only due to the photos that she brings to life but by the experience that we have with her. As a mom trying to hassle the husband and children together for family photos the scene is always chaos but Kelly truly brings a sense of calm and understanding. She cultivates the session to meet us where we are at and with young children, the emotions are ever changing. We will always recommend her, my favorite sessions and photos have been with her.” - Wasana
“Kelly took the first pictures of our family when we had our 4th baby. She did a fresh 48 shoot at the hospital. I am so happy we have these pictures! I always loved those days in the hospital with just the newest one...learning about them and studying every inch of them. Even now a year later, I get all the feels when I look back at those newborn pictures of our last baby. A year later we hired Kelly for an outdoor family shoot. We have 4 young children and Kelly nailed it with both the experience and the end product. She makes taking pictures fun and stress free, which is not an easy task! And in the end, I get pictures that show my kids’ true personalities and real smiles. She makes it hard to chose which pictures to hang on the wall because they are all that good! I highly recommend Kelly for any type of pictures you are looking for!” - Jackie
Ready to Make Family Photos a Tradition?
If you’ve been putting off a session, consider this your sign—it’s time to create memories that will last a lifetime! I’d love to help you capture your family’s unique story in a way that feels natural, beautiful, and completely you.
Family photo sessions are more than just pictures; they’re a celebration of love, connection, and the moments that make life special. Whether it’s your first session or an annual tradition, the investment in professional family portraits is one that only grows in value over time.
Don’t wait until someday—let’s capture the beauty of your family right now. 💛
Ready for your own family photo session?