At my last session, we were racing against the rain. We could see the clouds rolling in, but we pushed through, determined to capture what we could before the rain hit. I know how much time and planning goes into our time together, and it’s always disappointing when things don’t go exactly as planned.
While it did end up raining on our parade, we didn't let that stop us from having some fun! While it wasn’t what any of us envisioned, the mom and dad were incredible—they didn’t let the rain dampen their spirits. They danced in the rain with their little ones, making the best of an unexpected situation– their joy in that moment turned our session into something special.
It’s such a beautiful reminder that, even when things don’t go as planned, there’s magic in rolling with the punches. Those rainy photos ended up being some of my favorites—full of love, laughter, and pure spontaneity.
Keep scrolling to see some of my tried and true ways to bring the fun to your next family photography session in Columbus, Ohio.
Trust me, I get it—"family photos don’t have to be stressful!" sounds great, but in reality, it can feel impossible. Remember, I'm a mom, too, and have been in your shoes! Here are a few of my favorite tips to lessen the stress so you can lean into the fun!
- Let your kids be themselves! If they’re shy, that’s okay! If they’re bouncing off the walls, that’s okay too! Trying to force them into something they’re not usually just adds pressure— and that won’t get you the results you want anyway.
- Prep your little ones. For toddlers and younger kiddos, let them know what to expect. Say something like, "First, we’re going to take some fun photos, and then we’ll go to [insert their favorite activity here]—like getting ice cream or playing at the park!"
- Consider the location. If we’re at a park, maybe let them play a bit beforehand and set a timer so they know when it's photo time. Or use playtime as a reward after the session!
- Work around their schedules. I always talk through this with my clients because I know how important it is to make sure we aren’t taking photos when your child is tired, hungry, cranky, or all three!
- Snacks are your friend. Hattie is often clutching some sort of snack in her photos. It’s okay to bring along small treats to keep everyone happy throughout the session– my only request is they aren't messy. Mini marshmallows are great for this.
- Relax and have fun! Don’t stress about getting the perfectly posed shot. The images my clients love the most are the ones where everyone’s laughing, tickling, or just being silly. The genuine smiles come once everyone’s loosened up—those picture-perfect moments will follow naturally. This is why I always try and knock out the standard family portrait first before telling you to not look at my camera again unless I ask you to!
- Trust your photographer. Hire someone who knows kids 🙋🏻♀️ As a fellow parent, there isn't anything your child can do to rattle me, and I’ll do whatever it takes to get those giggles— even if it means acting like a total goof behind the camera, singing baby shark, hopping like a frog– you name it, and I've likely done it.
Easy Ways to Keep it Fun:
- Play their favorite song and let them dance.
- Bring a favorite book or lovey to play with.
- Make silly noises.
- Tell them you're going to get them (whatever that means in your family! chasing them, tickling them, kissing them – the key here is actually the anticipation, not the action!)
- Shower them with hugs and kisses.
- Have older kids race each other or play Ring Around the Rosie.
- Give piggyback rides or put your toddler on your shoulders.
- Go on a little nature hunt for flowers or rocks.
- Look for birds or airplanes.
- Whisper a secret in their ear.
- Turn everything into a game.
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Discover the Unparalleled Expertise of Meredith Maag Photography: Your Premier Maternity, Newborn, and Family Photographer in Columbus, Ohio
Welcoming a newborn or celebrating the everyday magic of your family is a special chapter in life, and it deserves to be beautifully documented. As a leading Columbus, Ohio maternity and family photographer, Meredith Maag Photography specializes in capturing these fleeting moments with artistry and authenticity. Whether you're seeking newborn photography in Columbus or looking for a photographer to document your family’s unique journey, Meredith offers personalized, stress-free sessions that reflect the love and connection within your family.
No matter where your family is in your journey, these precious moments deserve to be preserved—because tomorrow, your little ones will be a bit older, and these cherished seasons will become memories. With Meredith Maag Photography, you’ll experience more than just a photoshoot; you’ll receive personalized care, unmatched expertise, and a tailored experience that captures the heart of your family's story.
Whether you choose a cozy, in-home lifestyle session or an outdoor adventure, Meredith’s artistic eye ensures every moment is beautifully documented. From styling assistance using her exclusive studio wardrobe to coordinating professional hair and makeup services, she handles every detail, allowing you to relax and enjoy the experience.
Why Choose Meredith Maag Photography?
- Expertise and Experience: Meredith Maag brings years of experience and a deep understanding of newborn photography, establishing herself as a leading Columbus, Ohio newborn photographer. Her expertise ensures that every session is conducted with safety, comfort, and professionalism. As a skilled maternity photographer in Columbus, Ohio, Meredith is trained in handling newborns with the utmost care, ensuring that your little one is safe and secure throughout the session. Her keen eye for detail allows her to capture those tiny, intricate features that make your newborn unique, from the curl of their fingers to the softness of their cheeks. In addition to her technical skills, Meredith's experience extends to working with families of all sizes and dynamics. Whether you're a first-time parent or welcoming another child into your growing family, Meredith's approach as a family photographer in Columbus, Ohio is tailored to meet your specific needs and desires. She understands that every family is different and is committed to providing a personalized experience that reflects your unique story.
- A Passion for Storytelling: Every family has a story to tell, and Meredith Maag is passionate about capturing the narrative of your family's journey as a premier family photographer in Columbus, Ohio. Her photography goes beyond simple portraits; it's about capturing the emotions, connections, and love that define your family. As a leading Columbus, Ohio newborn photographer, Meredith's storytelling approach ensures that each image reflects the authentic essence of your family, creating a visual narrative that you'll treasure for years to come. Meredith's love for storytelling is evident in her ability to capture the moments that often go unnoticed—the gentle touch of a parent's hand, the first smile of your newborn, or the quiet moments of reflection and love. These are the images that truly tell the story of your family's early days, allowing you to look back and remember the feelings and emotions of this special time.
- Stress-Free Experience: Life can be overwhelming, especially with a newborn or small children, which is why Meredith is committed to offering a personalized and stress-free experience from start to finish. Meredith takes care of every detail, so you can simply relax and enjoy these special moments. Each session is customized to reflect your family’s unique style and personality. Whether you prefer intimate moments in the comfort of your home or beautiful outdoor shots, Meredith offers flexible location options that suit your vision. To make things even easier, she provides access to her carefully curated studio wardrobe, ensuring that both mamas and families feel confident and well-dressed without the stress of finding the perfect outfits. For added luxury, Meredith can arrange optional professional hair and makeup services, giving moms the chance to feel pampered and beautiful before the session. Throughout the entire process, her outstanding communication ensures you're never left guessing—every question is answered, and every concern is addressed. From booking your session to selecting your favorite digital files and creating custom artwork, Meredith guides you through each step with one-on-one design consultations. To make your experience even more seamless, she personally delivers and installs any ordered products in your home, ensuring that your cherished memories are beautifully displayed.
Session Options to Fit Every Family's Needs and Budget
Meredith Maag Photography offers a range of session options designed to fit every family’s needs and budget. Whether you're looking for a full, detailed experience or something more streamlined, there's a perfect option for you:
- Signature Session: Ideal for families who want the full photography experience, this session includes a personalized consultation, access to Meredith's studio wardrobe, and optional professional hair and makeup services. You'll also receive a one-on-one design session to select your favorite digital files and customize artwork for your home. This session allows for multiple settings and ample time to capture a variety of moments.
- Simple Session: For families looking for a more focused and shorter session, the Simple Session is a great option. You'll still benefit from the personalized approach Meredith is known for, with styling assistance and access to the studio wardrobe, all within a streamlined and budget-friendly package. Perfect for capturing milestone moments or family portraits without sacrificing quality.
- Membership Options: Meredith's membership options are perfect for families who want to document multiple milestones over the course of a year. This option offers significant value, allowing you to capture maternity, newborn, and family sessions at a discounted rate, ensuring you never miss a moment.
No matter which option you choose, Meredith's approach guarantees a meaningful, stress-free experience, allowing you to create lasting memories while staying within your budget.
KInD WORDS FROM HAPPY CLIENTS
It is an honor to work with countless families in Columbus, Ohio, capturing the magic and beauty in special seasons of their life. Here's what some of my happy clients have to say about their experience:
"Working with Meredith was an absolute dream! She made the entire process so easy and stress-free, from the initial consultation to the final delivery of our images. Her attention to detail and passion for storytelling is truly unmatched, and we couldn't be happier with the beautiful photos of our newborn. Thank you, Meredith, for capturing these precious memories!"
"Meredith's ability to capture the emotions and connections within our family was truly remarkable. Her photography goes beyond simple portraits; it's about capturing the love and warmth that define our family. We are so grateful for the beautiful images she created for us and will cherish them for years to come."
"The in-home lifestyle session with Meredith was everything we hoped for and more. She made us feel so comfortable and relaxed, and the photos she captured are absolutely stunning. Her attention to detail and commitment to creating a personalized experience truly set her apart. We can't wait to work with her again in the future!"
"Just received our album! It is absolutely precious– a treasure no doubt! I cannot thank you enough for your time and talent!"
BOOK YOUR MATERNITY, NEWBORn, or family PHOTOGRAPHY SESSION TODAy!
When you choose Meredith Maag Photography, you’re investing in more than photos—you’re investing in timeless keepsakes, stress-free experiences, and a trusted photographer who understands the significance of your family’s milestones. Don’t let these precious moments slip by—contact Meredith today to book your maternity, newborn, or family photography session, and start creating artwork you’ll treasure for a lifetime.
