families Michelle Baril families Michelle Baril

why I’ll never tell your child to smile (and what I do instead)

My approach is different. I focus on lifestyle photography, which means capturing moments that are real, unscripted, and full of personality. Whether we're walking through Garry Point Park or playing along the docks in Steveston, I guide your family through gentle, natural prompts that encourage connection and fun. Before long, your child is laughing, exploring, and completely themselves. And that's when the magic happens—smiles that aren't prompted, but felt.

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families Michelle Baril families Michelle Baril

why I chose family photography

Growing up, I wasn’t exactly fond of having my picture taken. I can still remember the awkwardness of posing for family photos and trying to hide behind my siblings. As a kid, I didn’t see the point. I didn’t want to stand still and smile at a camera for what felt like hours, especially when it always seemed to catch me in a moment that wasn’t me.

That’s why I decided to specialize in family photography. I understand the discomfort, the reluctance, and the pressure to look perfect. But here’s the thing: family photos don’t need to be perfect to be beautiful. In fact, the more authentic and relaxed the session, the better the final result will be.

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families, grads Michelle Baril families, grads Michelle Baril

tips for helping teens feel comfortable in front of the camera

As a photographer, my job isn’t just to take pictures—it’s to capture the essence of the person in front of the camera. I want each session to reflect the unique personality of my clients, especially teens who may feel a bit uncertain about the process. Here are a few tips I share with parents to help your teen feel more at ease during the photo session.

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families Michelle Baril families Michelle Baril

when is the best time to book family photos?

As a photographer who specializes in sunset sessions, I often get asked, “When’s the best time to book family photos?” The short answer: now—especially if you're dreaming of golden summer light, relaxed evenings, and that magical glow only sunset can give.

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families Michelle Baril families Michelle Baril

family photos: keeping it simple, beautiful, and full of connection

When we think about family photos, it's easy to get caught up in the idea that everything needs to be perfect. We might envision golden hour lighting, perfectly coordinated outfits, and flawless smiles. But the truth is, family photos don't have to be complicated to be beautiful. In fact, the simplest moments often turn out to be the most meaningful.

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families Michelle Baril families Michelle Baril

preparing kids for a sunset photoshoot: a fun and relaxed approach

As a lifestyle photographer, one of the most rewarding parts of my job is capturing the beautiful, unposed moments that happen naturally, especially with children. While some photographers might focus on getting kids to smile and pose for the camera, I love to take a more relaxed approach — capturing their true essence as they play, interact, and just enjoy the moment.

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families, grads Michelle Baril families, grads Michelle Baril

what to wear to your steveston family photoshoot

Steveston, BC, with its charming blend of waterfront views, rustic buildings, and stunning sunsets, is one of the most picturesque locations for a family photoshoot. But one of the most common questions families ask me is: "What should we wear?" Don’t worry – I’ve got you covered! In this guide, we’ll talk about the best colours, styles, and tips to ensure that your family looks their best while feeling relaxed and comfortable. Let’s dive in!

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families, grads Michelle Baril families, grads Michelle Baril

best portrait locations in steveston, bc

Steveston, BC, is a gem for photographers and families looking for the perfect backdrop for their portraits. Whether you want the natural beauty of a park, the charm of a historic village, or the coastal feel of a working wharf, Steveston has it all. Here are some of the best locations for your next portrait session.

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