Ever found yourself wondering how to capture those fleeting, beautiful moments with your energetic little ones without the stress? As your trusted Dover photographer and a dedicated husband and wife team photography studio serving all of Tuscarawas County, we pour our hearts into capturing your family's most precious moments, so you don't have to stress!

This week, we're taking you behind the scenes of a recent childhood photographer session that was pure joy. You see, the little stars of this shoot, a family with three amazing small children, hold a truly special place in our hearts. We've had the immense privilege of photographing each of them since their newborn days, continuing with their milestone photographer sessions throughout their childhood. Watching them grow, learn, and discover the world through our lens, from their first days to their latest adventures right here in Dover, has been one of the most rewarding parts of our journey. This latest session was filled with their infectious laughter, playful energy, and those genuine, fleeting moments that make family life so magical. Every click of the shutter felt like capturing another precious memory in their vibrant, collective story.

We know, however, that photographing small children (especially three at once!) isn't always giggles and perfect poses! As parents ourselves, we understand the unique challenges: short attention spans, unexpected meltdowns, and the unpredictable nature of little ones. We've truly seen it all – from shy smiles that take patience to coax out, to spontaneous bursts of energy that require quick reflexes from every single one of them.

That's exactly why this blog post is extra special. Beyond sharing the delightful images from our recent Dover session, we're also pouring out years of experience as your childhood photographer into practical, real-world tips designed to help you make your own photography sessions with small children go smoothly.

Our Best Advice for Happy Kiddos and Stunning Photos:

• Timing is Everything: This is perhaps the most crucial tip for any session with small children. We always recommend scheduling around naps and snacks. A well-rested and well-fed child is a happy child, and happy children make for genuinely joyful photos. We'll chat with you before your session to understand your little one's routine and find that perfect window!

• Keeping it Playful: Kids thrive on play, and photo sessions are no exception! Instead of demanding "cheese," we'll suggest engaging tricks to turn photo-taking into a fun game. Think tickle fights, singing silly songs, quick games of peek-a-boo, or using favorite toys as playful distractions. The goal is to capture genuine smiles and giggles, not forced grins.

• Embracing Imperfection: We understand the desire for perfectly posed family portraits, but some of the most authentic and heartwarming shots often come from the unplanned moments. A child's curious glance, a mischievous grin, a heartfelt pout – these "imperfect" moments are real, and they tell your family's unique story beautifully. Don't stress about every hair being in place; focus on connection, and we'll capture the magic.

• The Power of Connection: Your genuine interaction with your children is the most beautiful "pose" there is. Cuddles, gentle whispers, a shared laugh, or simply holding hands creates a powerful visual narrative. We encourage parents to engage fully with their children during sessions, allowing their authentic love and bond to shine through. We'll be there to capture these precious interactions from the perfect angle.

And trust us, that's just the beginning! There are so many subtle techniques and approaches we use to ensure every milestone photographer session is a positive and productive experience for everyone involved.

As your Dover photographer specialists, we believe every family deserves stunning photos that genuinely reflect their children's personalities and the love you share. With a little preparation and these tried-and-true techniques from our husband and wife team photography experience, you can transform those potentially chaotic moments into cherished memories, especially during those important milestone photographer sessions for each of your little ones.

What are your favorite tips for photographing your little ones? Share them in the comments below, or reach out to us to schedule your family's next milestone session in Tuscarawas County!

We recently had the absolute pleasure of capturing an engagement photography session at the beautiful Norma Johnson Center in Dover, Ohio. As Tuscarawas County engagement photographers, we're always thrilled when couples choose this picturesque nature preserve for their pre-wedding photos. The Norma Johnson Center truly offers diverse and breathtaking backdrops for couples photography, making it one of the top engagement photo locations in Ohio.

For this session, we began by one of the serene Norma Johnson Center ponds. While open, it still offered a beautiful frame of trees in the background, creating a natural embrace for their moments. What made this day particularly unique was the wildfire smoke from Canada, which created a soft haze in the air. This atmospheric element meant there was no harsh light, allowing for consistently gentle and flattering illumination throughout their Dover, Ohio engagement pictures.

As we explored, we wandered along the winding paths, and to our delight, discovered a patch of vibrant wildflowers blooming along the way! These unexpected pops of color added such a charming, organic touch to their Ohio engagement photos, showcasing the natural beauty that thrives within this Dover, Ohio nature preserve.

Our journey then led us to another enchanting pond at the Norma Johnson Center, this one beautifully enveloped by a denser canopy of mature trees. The deeper shade and diffused light here provided a wonderful contrast to our first location, offering a more intimate and secluded feel. These varied settings truly highlight why the Norma Johnson Center is a gem for Dover, Ohio photographers and couples alike, providing both expansive views and cozy, natural nooks for your engagement photos.

The couple was simply radiant throughout the session, full of laughter and genuine affection. Their energy was contagious, and it truly made for an unforgettable engagement session. We believe that engagement photography should be a true reflection of your unique relationship, and we strive to create images that feel authentic and timeless.

If you're searching for engagement photographers in Dover, Ohio or planning your own Norma Johnson Center engagement photography session, focusing on its beautiful ponds and natural trails, we'd love to chat! We specialize in capturing genuine moments and creating beautiful memories that you'll cherish for a lifetime.

Stay tuned for more from this couple's journey – we absolutely can't wait to capture their wedding day!

Stepping into the studio for a newborn session is always a moment of quiet anticipation, but when baby River's family arrived, there was an extra ripple of excitement. Mom and Dad, with their sweet older son in tow, radiated a calm joy that perfectly set the tone for their little one's debut. Their vision for the session was clear: they wanted blues, soft neutrals, and a natural, organic feel that beautifully echoed their baby boy's chosen name, River. And oh, did they deliver on the theme! They even brought the absolute cutest little fisherman outfit, complete with a tiny woven hat and a miniature "fishing rod." My heart, consider it hooked.

As a newborn studio photographer in Dover, Ohio, I always begin sessions like this with family portraits, making sure to capture those precious, fleeting moments of a newly expanded family of four. Older brother was an absolute champ, full of sweet smiles and gentle touches with his new baby brother, River. He was so eager to be part of the magic, cuddling up close, his excitement palpable. These are the images that truly tell a story – the beginning of their journey together, a new chapter filled with love and anticipation.

As soon as big brother had his moment in the spotlight, and we captured all the sibling and family combinations, a quick and clever hand-off happened. Grandma, bless her heart, whisked the energetic big brother away. This is a tip I offer to all my new parents: for longer newborn sessions, having a plan for older siblings after their pictures are done is a lifesaver. It prevents boredom for them, allowing us to maintain that peaceful, sleepy atmosphere for the newborn, and ensuring we get all those perfect, serene shots without any distractions. It truly makes everything a breeze, and this family absolutely nailed it.

With just Mom, Dad, and baby River, the Dover, Ohio studio settled into a hushed calm. And let me tell you, little man River was an absolute dream. He slipped into a deep, contented sleep for the majority of the session, allowing us to gently pose him in those beautiful, natural ways that truly highlight his tiny features. The blues and neutrals woven into his wraps and backdrops brought out the serene calm of his name, and seeing him snuggled in that adorable fisherman outfit, looking so perfectly at home, was just pure magic. Every pose was effortless, every transition smooth.

These are the sessions I cherish – not just for the beautiful photographs we create, but for the quiet, intimate moments shared. It's a privilege to document these first few days, to capture the newness, the tiny fingers and toes, and the overwhelming love that fills the air. Welcome to the world, sweet River. Your journey has just begun, and it was an honor to cast our lines and capture your beautiful start.

Are you looking for a newborn photographer in the Dover, Ohio area to capture your family's precious early moments? Reach out to schedule your session today!

Summer in Dover is beautiful – long days, lush greenery, and endless opportunities for outdoor fun! It's also when many families choose to update their portraits. While the sun can be glorious, it also brings heat, and nobody wants sweaty, uncomfortable faces in their cherished Dover family photos.

As a Dover family photographer, I've learned a few tricks to ensure your summer photo session is not only successful but enjoyable, even when the temperatures rise. Here are my top tips for surviving (and thriving!) during your mid-summer family photography session in Northeast Ohio:

1. Timing is Everything: Embrace Golden Hour for Stunning Summer Portraits

This is arguably the most crucial tip for outdoor family photography! The harsh midday sun creates unflattering shadows, squinty eyes, and can make everyone feel overheated quickly. We always aim for what photographers call "golden hour" – the hour or two right after sunrise or before sunset.

• Morning Sessions: These are fantastic for families with early risers or young children who are freshest in the morning. The light is soft and beautiful, and temperatures are generally cooler. Perfect for Dover morning photography.
• Evening Sessions: As the sun dips, the light becomes warm and magical, creating that dreamy glow we all love. It's also often cooler than late afternoon. We'll work together to find the perfect time slot that works best for your family's schedule and the sun's position for Dover sunset photos.

2. Hydration, Hydration, Hydration! Essential for a Comfortable Family Photoshoot

This cannot be stressed enough! Start hydrating well before your session, and bring plenty of water for everyone. Even if you don't feel thirsty, take sips often. Dehydration can lead to fatigue and irritability, which are definitely things we want to avoid during a family portrait session! Consider bringing a small cooler with ice water and even some electrolyte drinks.

3. Dress for Success (and Comfort!) in Your Summer Photography Outfits

While we want your outfits to look great, comfort in the heat is key for summer family pictures.

• Lightweight Fabrics: Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and rayon. Avoid heavy denim, thick knits, or anything that will trap heat.
• Light Colors: Lighter colors reflect sunlight, keeping you cooler than dark colors which absorb it. Pastels, whites, creams, and light blues are always great choices for summer photo sessions.
• Consider Footwear: If we're on location, comfortable shoes are a must, even if they're hidden in some shots. No one wants blisters cutting a Dover family photography session short!
• Hair and Makeup: Keep it light! Heavy makeup can feel sticky and melt in the heat. Simple hairstyles that keep hair off the neck can also be a lifesaver for hot weather photoshoots.

4. Pack Smart: Your Summer Photo Session "Heat Survival Kit"

Beyond water, a few extra items can make a big difference for your family portraits:

• Small Towels/Washcloths: Perfect for dabbing away sweat.
• Portable Fan: A small, battery-operated fan can be a lifesaver for quick cool-downs between shots.
• Bug Spray: Especially for evening sessions near wooded or watery areas in Dover parks.
• Snacks: Small, non-messy snacks like fruit slices or crackers can help boost energy levels, especially for little ones during a long photoshoot.
• Change of Clothes (for kids): Just in case of any spills or excessive sweating, a quick change can refresh everyone.

5. Embrace the Pace for Relaxed Dover Family Pictures

We understand that summer heat can slow things down. Don't worry about perfect poses every second. We'll take breaks as needed, find shaded spots, and let the kids have a moment to themselves if they're getting restless. Our goal is to capture genuine moments, and sometimes that means a little less rigidity and a lot more relaxed play for your authentic family photos.

6. Communicate with Your Dover Photographer

Before your session, chat with me about any concerns you have regarding the heat or your family's specific needs. We can discuss Dover locations with more shade, adjust the session length, or plan for more frequent breaks. Your comfort and your family's enjoyment are my top priorities for your custom family photoshoot!

Summer family photos capture a unique, vibrant energy. By planning ahead and keeping these tips in mind, we can ensure your Dover family photo session is a comfortable, fun, and memorable experience, resulting in beautiful professional family portraits you'll treasure for years to come.

Still on the fence about booking a summer family session? Just imagine: the vibrant hues of summer flowers as a natural backdrop, the serene sparkle of nearby lakes reflecting the golden light, and those breathtaking Dover sunsets painting the sky with unforgettable colors. Summer offers a unique opportunity for truly stunning outdoor family portraits that you just can't get any other time of year. Don't miss out on capturing your family amidst this season's unparalleled beauty!

Ready to capture your family's summer memories? Let's chat and book your Dover family photography session today!

https://app.iris-works.com/customer/booking/23470/booking_landing_page

#DoverOHFamilyPhotographer #OhioFamilyPhotography #SummerPhotoshootTips #FamilyPhotography #HeatSurvivalTips #GoldenHourPhotography #DoverOhio #SummerFlowers #LakePhotos #SunsetSessions #NortheastOhioPhotographer #FamilyPortraits #DoverPhotographer #OutdoorFamilyPhotos

We absolutely adore when our couples feel like family, and Kaleb and Madison's recent wedding at the stunning Rustic Ridge was a perfect example! As Ohio wedding photographers serving Tuscarawas County and beyond, we were thrilled to be back at this incredible venue.

This was our third wedding with Madison's wonderful family, having previously photographed two of her cousins' big days. It's always such a joy to see our past clients thriving, and there's a unique comfort in walking into a wedding knowing so many of the guests. It truly felt like a big family reunion, filled with warm hugs, happy tears, and endless laughter. Being based near New Philadelphia, Ohio, we love getting to capture these local connections!

Kaleb and Madison's day at Rustic Ridge was everything you could hope for – a beautiful blend of rustic charm and heartfelt emotion. Every detail was expertly orchestrated by Elegance by Heather, ensuring a seamless and stress-free day for the happy couple. From the intimate moments shared between the couple to the lively celebration on the dance floor, every detail radiated their genuine love story. Rustic Ridge provided the perfect backdrop for their vows, with its scenic beauty adding an extra layer of magic to every shot. 

We here at Waters Edge Photography feel incredibly grateful to have been a part of such a special day for the Stockey family once again. Capturing these precious memories for Kaleb and Madison was an honor, and seeing so many beloved faces made it even more memorable.

We here at Waters Edge Photography feel incredibly grateful to have been a part of such a special day for the Stockey family once again. Capturing these precious memories for Kaleb and Madison was an honor, and seeing so many beloved faces made it even more memorable.

Congratulations, Kaleb and Madison! We wish you a lifetime of happiness, and we can't wait to see what amazing adventures await you. If you're planning your Tuscarawas County wedding or looking for an Ohio wedding photographer, we'd love to chat!

Vendor Dream Team:

• Venue: Rustic Ridge
• Wedding Planner: Elegance by Heather
• Videographer: Big Day Videography
• DJ: DJ by Request
• Photography: Waters Edge Photography