Traverse City Family Photographer

Love the imperfect.
Treasure the unscripted.

The best memories come from the in-between moments, the unexpected laughter, and the connections that matter most. I capture more than just smiles. I focus on the warmth and love of real moments—shared laughter, quiet embraces, and the emotions that strengthen your family’s bonds over time.

traverse city family photographer

traverse city family photographer

traverse city family photographer

“We immediately reached out to him for our first round of family photos with our 1 year old daughter. Seeing him again was like seeing an old friend – as though no time had passed and we were right back up to speed. The photos this time around were just as fantastic, and we look forward to a lifetime friendship and making these family photos a ritual. I can’t recommend his work enough.”

– Tom & Greta

Real creates the best memories

What kind of photos truly show your family’s connection? Perfect poses or laughter over stinky feet? As a Traverse City family photographer, I focus on real interactions and the tender moments that define your family. The way your child’s hand fits in yours, the belly laughs, the quiet snuggles—these are the memories that matter. Kids grow fast, and preserving these moments now will warm your heart for years to come.

traverse city family photographer

FAMILY REUNIONS

The heartbeat of family life

traverse city family photographer

What’s your favorite childhood memory? Those joyful moments are often the ones we wish we could relive. I’m dedicated to preserving those connections. As a father of four, I love taking my kids to my hometown, showing them where I fished, worked, and grew up. Family traditions passed down through generations keep us grounded and remind us of our roots, making sure we create the same meaningful moments for our kids.

Family Reunion Videos

Bakker Family
Lake Leelanau, MI

Berry Family
Frankfort, MI

Ruthkowski Family
Beulah, MI

Baumann Family
Lake Leelanau, MI

Your story, photos for generations

traverse city family photographer

traverse city family photographer

Surrounding ourselves with cherished memories turns our living spaces into sanctuaries of gratitude and emotion, reflecting our life’s journey and deepest values. As a Traverse City Family Photographer committed to bringing your memories to life around you. By integrating frames and albums into your home, you do more than decorate; you invite daily reflection on precious moments. In our fast-moving world, these images serve as timeless reminders of life’s beauty and the connections that give it meaning, ensuring they’re part of your everyday environment, not lost as electronic dust.

traverse city family photographer

FAQs

To ensure we fully capture your family and have a detailed understanding of your needs, I recommend booking as soon as you decide on a timeframe for your session—typically 2 to 3 months in advance. This allows us enough time to discuss and plan the perfect session for your family.

Absolutely, I love capturing families in environments that hold special meaning to them or in new and beautiful settings. Our travels have taken us to the shores of Frankfort to the bicycle-only Mackinac Island. Please contact me for specific details about travel fees and arrangements.

Each package is designed to cater to different needs and preferences. Our base package includes a pre-session consultation, shoot time on location, and an ordering and design appointment. No artwork or digital files are included in our collections, however, both can be purchased during an ordering appointment.

It’s common for families to feel a bit uneasy initially, which is why I focus on creating a fun and relaxed atmosphere. By engaging in playful activities and natural interactions, I capture your family’s genuine expressions and dynamics, making everyone feel at ease.

I limit my sessions to ensure each family receives the attention and creativity they deserve. I typically schedule around 25-30 family sessions a year, allowing me to dedicate ample time to planning and editing to perfectly capture your family’s moments.

Yes, we offer specialized coverage for family reunions, capturing the joy and connection of your entire extended family. We focus on capturing the essence of your gathering, ensuring that each family member’s personality and the overall atmosphere are reflected in the photos. We also offer a pre-event consultation to tailor the session to your specific needs and preferences.

Yes, we offer both 8mm and digital coverage of family reunion events.

1. Inquire
Reach out through our contact page

2. Reserve Your Session
After our conversation, I’ll send a custom proposal for your portrait session. To confirm, simply sign the agreement and pay a deposit, ensuring we’re ready to capture your family’s memories.

3. Plan Your Day
As your session approaches, we’ll finalize details like outfits, shots, and family dynamics, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all.

4. Capture Your Moments
On session day, relax and enjoy as we capture laughter, connections, and spontaneous moments—blending in like family to document your love.

5. Create Lasting Memories
Once your portraits are ready, we’ll have a viewing session with my design team to choose your favorites for framing or a custom family album, creating a lasting legacy for your home.

Be present and let life unfold naturally

The magic isn’t in the perfectly posed — it’s in the candid, the unfiltered, and the deeply felt. If you’re drawn to embracing the raw, heartfelt moments of family life, let’s connect.

Ready to take the next step?

Because they don’t stay little forever.

1. Fill out the inquiry form

2. Within 24-48 hours, we’ll be in touch to set up a time to connect.

3. If it feels like the right fit, I’ll send over a proposal with options tailored to your wedding day.

a child holding a man's hand