Written by: Suzzane Brown

@simplybysuzy | simplybysuzy.com



Each time I work with a family, I'm always trying to create photos that will actually mean something to them later. Turning 40 in a few weeks, and having been a photographer for almost 2 decades, I've come to learn that these are the images that will bring you to tears years after taking them. Personally, that's never been a session where our family has been posed over and over again until we’re done. It's always been the ones where we've played with each other or gone through our favorite routines. It's the sessions where we've allowed the messes to happen and embraced them instead of waiting for them to pass. 


I’ve also learned over the years that creating something with meaning looks different for each family. It's part of the thrill for me in this profession - the process of getting to know people and trying to figure that out. 


One of the dynamics I find especially fun to work with in this way, is when I get to photograph models and influencers. But not for the reasons you might think. Sure, the people themselves are gorgeous. And everything in their life is absolutely effortless to create artwork that's nothing short of *literally* beautiful. For me, the real pleasure is in covertly breaking them out of curating and posing for the camera. And walking them through an experience where they get to let go and connect with each other. The absolute best feeling is when you start to feel it happen. There is a sort of palpable electricity that goes up your arms like tingles, where everyone starts to get in sync, and someone will eventually say, “Wow… this is actually so much fun.”


It’s one of my favorite experiences to have as a photographer.


Breaking people out of who and what they think they’re supposed to be, and making space for them to be themselves. 


My best tips to making meaningful work for model families in front of your lens: 



  • Lightly pose and then remind them to connect and play.
  • Remind them that it's okay when things aren't perfect or things start to fall apart. 
  • Catch yourself objectifying anybody and see them as people who you’re genuinely excited to know better. 
  • Ask lots of questions.
  • Above all else, lead by example and simply be yourself. 
Written by: Suzzane Brown, Simply by Suzy