Finding Your Orinda, CA Family Photographer
When you find a family photographer who just gets you, it truly makes all the difference. For the beautiful, amazing, talented Yasmeen, that photographer is Oh, Honestly Photography, and I couldn’t be more grateful for her trust in me!
I met Yasmeen yearsss ago. How, you might ask? I worked with her hair stylist, Missy, for her engagement photos and when Yasmeen saw those photos, she knew she wanted to work with me, too! It was love at first sight.
Yasmeen said, “Once I saw Lia's photos, they stood out, and I love everything she does. I think she truly has an eye and ability to capture works of art.”
Since then, I’ve been there for all Yasmeen’s family’s biggest moments, from her engagement photos, her wedding to both of her baby’s newborn photos and beyond, I’m so glad they keep coming back because I love watching this sweet family grow. As much as I don’t want to sit here and brag about myself, I wanted to sit down and have a convo with Yasmeen about why she keeps coming back and if she had any advice for her moms researching family photographers in the Orinda, CA area.
My hope is that this blog post feels like you’re having a quick chat with Yasmeen about her experience working with me.
Ready????
Effortless and Natural Family Photography Sessions
Look, I get it. It can feel hard to get your photo taken. It’s not something that easily comes naturally. I’ll never tell you to pretend I’m not there because HELLO! I’m right there! Up in your biz! I want to get to know you and your better half so I can incorporate personal touches into your photo shoot and so that you both feel comfortable.
Hey, some people don’t love being in front of the camera. Honestly, same. My goal is to create a fun and easy process so you feel completely natural and we create images that you’ll love forever.
Yasmeen said, “I don’t really like being the center of attention, but Lia makes you feel comfortable right away. There’s no over-the-top posing or awkward moments—just real, natural interactions. She knows exactly how to direct you without making it feel forced.”
Photographer Who Sees the Chaos the Captures the Magic
Family sessions with little ones are rarely predictable. Kids are…kids! They’re not robots. Kids will have meltdowns, and it’s okay. Parents will worry that the whole session is a disaster, but with me, there’s nothing to worry about! I got you.
Yasmeen said on her experience, “She reads the room so well. Even when my two-year-old was throwing a tantrum, she found a way to get the most incredible shots. Meanwhile, I was sweating, thinking, ‘This is going to be awful.’ But when I got the photos back, I was floored.”
I’m not just taking “pictures,” I’m capturing your real life. I want to photograph the messy, beautiful, sometimes chaotic moments. Because while parenting littles is crazy and sometimes a blur, let’s be honest, there’s so much to treasure and cherish. Yes, even during the crazy moments.
Building A Story Over Time
One of the biggest benefits of working with the same photographer through life’s milestones? They know you. They grow with you. And they become part of your family’s story.
Yasmeen, “Lia has been with us from our engagement to our wedding, to our firstborn and now our second. She understands our family, our culture, and our personalities. My oldest son, Cyrus, even knows her by name. He gets so excited when she comes over—he calls her ‘Lia, the one who takes the pretty pictures all around our house!’”
From framed prints to albums, Yasmeen’s home tells the story of her family through our images. And every time someone visits, the first thing they ask is, “Who took these photos?”
I LOVE THAT!
Why the Investment in Family Photography is Worth it
For any mom debating whether to invest in professional photography, Yasmeen has one thing to say: Do it.
“Moms are never in the pictures. Lia captures the magic of motherhood, the little details we’re too busy to notice. That first year is a blur, but these photos bring it all back. They’re keepsakes, heirlooms—things you pass down.”
Plus, let’s be honest—handing the camera to a well-meaning partner doesn’t always go as planned.
“No matter how many times you try to explain how to take a good photo, they just don’t get it. Lia, on the other hand, gets it.”
You and your children will treasure professional photos because they’ll be your memories preserved.
The Final Result?? Pure Magic
Every time Yasmeen receives her photos, she has the same reaction: amazement.
“I can’t believe these are our moments. Lia’s attention to detail is insane. My whole family has prints of her photos—my mom, my dad, even my brother. It’s something we all cherish.”
Guys, this is not a paid testimonial! I just love her.
Yasmeen was kind enough to snap a few photos of how she displays her Oh, Honestly photos around her beautiful home!
Shouting From the Rooftops
Yasmeen, you da best. She owns a really rad business called TinkerWonderPlay with the best activities, resources, and ideas for kids. Follow her Instagram here, and thank me later.
“We just want to shout from the rooftops that we love Lia. I never want to take photos with anyone else.”
When you find a photographer who captures your most treasured moments with care, creativity, and heart, you don’t let them go. And for Yasmeen, I’m so grateful that Oh, Honestly Photography is that photographer for her family.
Ready to create your own story with Oh Honestly Photography?