As a photographer, I feel that my strength is photographing other people and making them look their best. However, the same does not always apply to my own personal photos. I am my own worst critic and I tend to consider myself "un-photogenic."

That's why I was so pleased by how these images turned out! This is my "dad's side" family photos, taken along Long Lake in Pontoon Beach, Illinois. This past Christmas, I got everyone on that side custom Cardinals t-shirts with the plan of doing a family portrait in the spring/summer together. We had a shower for our cousin earlier in the day and it was also my brother Bill's birthday, so we were all able to get together in the same place for once. It was a fun day!

I actually took these with the self-timer and jumped in the frame within the ten seconds it gave me to get there. Considering I wasn't able to time the shot myself, I was pleased that it only took about four frames of each shot to get a decent photograph. I did very minimal retouching on these and called it a day. Don't we all look great? :-)

It's so hard to get everyone together sometimes, but isn't it worth having a memory of your family hanging in your home forever? I'm so glad we took the time to do this, even if I had to take it myself to get the job done! 

One of the reasons I love photography so much is because I'm able to create these timeless images for families to keep forever. We mark a point in someone's life with a professional, flattering portrait. When printed and shared, it creates a cherished heirloom. 

Even if it's just a quick snapshot with your phone or a professional portrait you set time aside for, it is so important to get those family group photos. Stop putting it off, get the entire gang together and make sure to set aside time to get a picture in. You'll be so glad you did! Those fleeting moments captured on camera of the people you love will be treasured forever. And you'll also enjoy a great day spending time with your favorite people. 

Of course, you can contact me to photograph your clan for you, no stressful "selfie" action required from you. Not only that, when I'm behind the camera I can ensure your entire family looks their best, creating a customized, on-location family portrait you'll love.