by Gabbi | Maryland Wedding + Portrait Photographer
“I’m so awkward in photos.”
“I have no idea what to do with my hands.”
“We’ve never had professional pictures before—we’re kind of nervous.”
If that sounds like something you’ve said (or thought), you’re not alone. One of the most common things I hear from new clients—whether it’s a couple, a family, or even a bride on her wedding day—is that they’re worried they won’t look natural in front of the camera.
Here’s the good news: you don’t have to know what to do. That’s where I come in.
I’ll guide you the entire time—without making you feel stiff or overly posed.
My approach to photography is relaxed, intuitive, and rooted in connection. I’ll give you gentle direction—where to stand, how to hold each other, where to look—but I always leave space for natural emotion and real interaction.
If you’re a couple, I might ask you to whisper something silly in your partner’s ear, or walk hand-in-hand and just be yourselves. If you’re a family, we’ll turn it into a game. I’ll guide your kids in a way that keeps them engaged, while capturing the chaos and joy that makes your family yours.
The result? Candid, timeless images that feel like you—not like you were stuck in awkward prom poses all afternoon.
I create a calm, fun atmosphere where you can just breathe.
I know how vulnerable it can feel to be in front of the lens. That’s why I work hard to make our time together feel more like a conversation (or a playdate!) than a photo shoot. I’ll never rush you. We’ll chat, laugh, take breaks when needed, and move at a pace that feels comfortable.
Over and over again, I hear things like:
“That was actually fun—I can’t believe how easy you made it!”
“I usually hate photos of myself, but I love these.”
“You captured us exactly as we are.”
I photograph connection—not perfection.
This might be the most important thing I can tell you: I’m not chasing perfection. I’m looking for emotion, chemistry, and the little in-between moments that reveal who you really are.
The way your partner looks at you when you’re not paying attention. The way your child reaches for your hand. The way you laugh when you forget the camera is there.
That’s what I want to capture. And I promise—those are the photos you’ll love the most.
Let’s make magic (and maybe even have fun doing it).
Whether you’re booking an engagement session, a family shoot, or your full wedding day, my goal is to help you feel seen—and to create photos that feel effortless, honest, and joy-filled.
If you’re someone who says, “I’m not photogenic,” let me show you that you don’t have to be. You just have to be you.
Reach out here to schedule your session or ask any questions—I’m here to help.
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