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In My Father’s Arms: Favorite Dad and Baby Portraits

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Let’s highlight some meaningful dad and baby portraits in honor of Father’s Day. No matter how old your baby is getting! 🙂 It’s no secret that many Dad’s are not thrilled about having family photos taken. I think they envision an uncomfortable outfit, awkward smiles, and stiff poses. But today, I want to let you in on a little secret. NONE of the best dad images involve any of these scenarios! Lifestyle photographs are about being authentic, playing with your kids, and having fun as a family! It’s encouraged to be goofy, to snuggle close, and use the weird voice that always elicits a smile from your toddler. Be yourself! Read on for tips on how to have natural, beautiful, joyful portraits captured of your family!

dad with three boys in cherry blossoms
father playing with his newborn daughter in her crib

Tip #1 : Be yourself

Be that Saturday morning silly dad that you are with your kids. Whether that means chasing them, shoulder rides, wrestling, or peek-a-boo with weird voices. Nothing elicits better smiles from kids than when their dad is being his natural, silly self with his kids. Whatever it is that makes your kids laugh, do it!

a father holding his baby girl in the living room with lots of houseplants nearby
father and son standing for a portrait in Pittsburgh's Mellon Park
Father and daughter dancing during a photo session in Pittsburgh's Mellon Park

Tip #2 : Dress like yourself

You don’t need to wear formal button down shirts, if that’s not you! Wear something that you feel natural, confident, and true to your personal preferences! It’s ok to wear a T-shirt, but stick with solid colors and in general it’s best to avoid graphic tees. My goal is to create authentic portraits and I believe it starts with what you wear!

A newborn lifestyle image of a father sitting on a window seat feeding his newborn baby boy. Photo by Pittsburgh Newborn Lifestyle Photographer, Laura Mares Photography.
portrait of father holding son on shoulder
Portrait of a family of four taken during golden hour near Pittsburgh

Tip #3: Connect with your family

Enjoy being with your family and forget I’m there! Our natural instinct is to look at the camera with a stiff smile, but that’s not our goal. Our goal is to create photos of you connecting with your kids and having a great time which means capturing genuine smiles and natural emotions!

A lifestyle image of a father sitting on the sofa tickling his daughter. Photo by Pittsburgh Lifestyle Photographer, Laura Mares Photography.
a father and son playing during a photo session

Tip #4: Have fun with your kids

The best tip I can share is to use the opportunity to enjoy quality time with your family. Be present in the moment and create new memories.

portrait of family in point state park, Pittsburgh, PA
portrait of family in point state park, Pittsburgh, PA
A newborn lifestyle image of a father sitting in a chair holding his newborn baby boy with his two dogs. Photo by Pittsburgh Newborn Lifestyle Photographer, Laura Mares Photography.

Obtaining the best dad and baby photos is easier than you think!

Remember to be yourself, dress like yourself, and connect with your kids

dad tries the birthday cake at outdoor cake smash session
portrait of father and son in a rural field at sunset near Pittsburgh, PA
portrait of father and son in a rural field at sunset near Pittsburgh, PA
dad playing with child during family photo session

Laura

Hi, I'm Laura Mares! I'm thankful to be a wife, mother and Pittsburgh lifestyle photographer. I photograph because I believe that life is simply beautiful and every person has a story worth telling. I'd love to tell yours.

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