The Details
Photos are so vulnerable. I know how hard it is for some people to get in front of a camera- ironically, I don’t love being on the other side of the camera, but I know time is fleeting. This is why I do my best to help you feel comfortable during your session by getting to know you and making the session fun for the kids. The real connection happens when you are able to relax and enjoy your loved ones.
You may be worried about any flaws, how your kids will act, but I do my best to help you get as comfortable as possible & so you can focus on having fun with your family. Perfection isn’t the goal. I want your family to show up with all their imperfections because that is real life. My logo resembles my tattoo of an Enso which represents imperfection. Due to struggling with perfectionism myself, I now feel like my super power is finding beauty in the imperfection. There is a time and place for perfectly posed photos, but I try to capture the moments & emotion. I know I am not alone in trying to do what’s right for my family and questioning every day if its enough. We are in the thick of it. We know time is fleeting. Everyone tells you how fast childhood goes for a parent, but they don’t always prepare you for how long the days can feel. Family photos are so special because they remind us that even though we make mistakes sometimes, our children’s love for us is in infinite and they are loved beyond measure. Photos also remind us what an absolute honor it is to be a parent to these children who seem to change a little bit every day.
What to Expect:
- Easy booking process
- Session planning together to bring your vision to life
- Styling appointment that includes use of my client closet & style assistance for each family member
- A session focused on having fun and loving on your family
- Images delivered via an online gallery within 3 weeks
Imperfectly beautiful
Family photos don’t always have to be stressful!
I know how stressful family photos can be, so my goal is to make the experience as easy as possible.
The 2 most stressful things I hear families say:
What are we supposed to wear? A client closet that gives you flattering options. Styling guidance to make your photos look cohesive and beautiful.
What if my kids act up or they are incapable of smiling normally in photos??Kids will be kids and they may not listen, cry, run away, but I expect that, just like my own children. My job is to do my best to make the experience fun for them and allow you to enjoy your family. My sessions are laid back and kid led.
My photography style is more focused on your family interacting with each other. I will take some posed smiling at the camera photos, but the goal is to play and let your family relax and connect with each other and that is when the natural smiles come out.
A Positive Lens
Family photography with a purpose.
Sarah Valencia Photography is family photography with a purpose. For every session, a % of the proceeds are donated to a photography non-profit.
Telling a family’s authentic story is at the heart of SVP, and that includes helping others do the same.
This year our non-profit will be the 100cameras program. Through photography, this program teaches youth all over the world how to process their difficult experiences & tell their unique story through photography. Youth gain knowledge about technical photography skills and100cameras assists in selling their photographs and returns the proceeds to their communities.
Mini sessions will donate to local non-profits in the Lake County area.
Every time you book a session, you are helping youth who need it. It all adds and up —-you help make that difference.
You can find more information about 100cameras and ways to donate below
Client Closet
The client closet was created to provide a stress- free experience for your family. We’ve all been there and know how stressful and time consuming it is picking out clothes, scrolling Pinterest, and over thinking whether the outfits flow together. I want you to be able to show up to the session, change, & feel comfortable, so you can go have fun with your family!
Clothing plays a huge role in how your photos look and feel. The pieces are curated with a variety of textures, prints, & colors to elevate your photos to be cohesive and beautiful art.
My client closet is full of flattering women’s dresses in all different sizes, accessories, children’s clothing, and some men’s shirts. Extra bonuses of the client closet? Saves you time and money!
How does the client closet work?
5 weeks before your session, I will send you a styling questionnaire and we will set up a styling appointment either online or in person to discuss clothing & location. We will work together to make your vision for the session come to life. I will send you a style board with each family member’s look to help you stay organized. I will then bring the items steamed and picture ready for your session. At the end of the session, I will take the clothing back and take care of cleaning part- yay for no extra laundry!