EGGciting Morning at Home in Niles, MI | A Ketchum Family Film 2022
When I’m shooting family documentary film sessions, I’m always focused on a few key elements. Client requests, unexpected moments, and capturing the things that might go unnoticed in daily life are all essential. Each of these moments is what makes your family’s story unique.
While I am shooting family film sessions, I have a few things on my mind.
Client Requests
Things They Didn’t Know They Needed
Anything Repetitive
Client Requests: Bringing Your Family’s Story to Life
Before every session, I send out a questionnaire so I can get to know you and understand what makes your family so special. A pre-session call allows us to discuss your goals for the session and plan out what we’d like to focus on. With a pencil in hand, I jot down the details that matter most to you.
For this mama, there were a few moments she specifically wanted to capture. First, she hoped her boys would help her cook by pulling up their chairs to the kitchen island. She admitted, “Sometimes I wish they wouldn’t because it takes so much longer.” Isn’t that the reality of parenting? We endure the chaos, knowing we'll miss it when it's gone.
Next, she mentioned how much she loved the way her twins' feet dangled from the snack table. She laughed, feeling a little embarrassed by such a small detail. I assured her, “I get it!” Then, she spoke about their sweet voices, especially when they say “milk, please” or “more, please.” Lastly, she mentioned how much she wanted me to capture them using their imaginations, as they were starting to enter that exciting phase of development.
This phone call is key to the success of the session. When I notice these moments during the shoot, I make sure to hit the record button and stay in the moment. If I miss a "more please," I ask mom for a cue to have them repeat it. These are the moments I would never capture if I didn’t take the time for a thorough pre-session conversation.
See how many of these heartfelt moments show up in their family film!
Unexpected Treasures: Things They Didn’t Know They Needed
As a family photographer and filmmaker, I see the beauty in the small, everyday moments. Most parents don’t realize how much their children will cherish hearing their voices and seeing their faces years down the road. That’s where I come in—I’m constantly searching for those “gems” that tell the real story of your family.
Gems could be a simple look between mom and dad, a toddler’s tiny hand grasping a parent’s finger, or a parent’s joyful smile when their little one performs a silly dance. Gems are those tender moments that often go unnoticed in the busy pace of everyday life. I’m here to capture those moments for you to reflect on for years to come.
The Unexpected Star of the Show: Eggs
Who knew eggs would become such an important part of this family’s story? As I reviewed the footage later, I realized just how many times eggs appeared in the film. While there were plenty of other adorable moments—peekaboo games, bike rides, and family cuddles—the eggs became a recurring theme that tied everything together. Sometimes, a simple object like eggs can beautifully reflect the rhythm of a family’s day.
In the editing process, I had so much fun creatively incorporating these eggs into the narrative. It was like piecing together a mysterious puzzle—something that makes the final product all the more special.
Without Further Ado, Here Is the Ketchum Family Film
The twins are almost 2, and this family film is a precious reminder of the everyday moments that make childhood so magical. I’m beyond grateful to be able to document their story in such an authentic way.
What do you think? I truly love doing this important work—capturing real, meaningful moments for families to treasure forever.
