Photos You Can Feel: Documentary-Style Family Photography
For the Family Who Values Connection Over Perfection
Family photos are about so much more than everyone standing still and smiling. They’re a celebration of the love, quirks, and everyday magic that make your family unique—a chance to capture real, meaningful moments that show who you are together. Shared with the people who mean the most.
You’re the kind of family who wants to remember this chapter of life—the way you play, love, laugh, and connect.
Together we’ll capture the spirit of your family so that you can look back and feel this chapter of your life.
Hi I’m Jess Mac
I’ve been a full-time photographer since 2012 but discovered the power of photography early on. Growing up, I moved every three years for my dad’s job. When packing up our life what mattered most was the photos I had taken. Photography became my way of holding onto each place and every person who shaped me along the way.
My documentary-style approach allows me to capture your stories through movement, playfulness, and authentic emotions.
You can expect a collaborative experience as we walk, explore, play, and just have fun.
FAQs
I’m not sure my baby can handle photos for that long.
The beauty of my style of photography is that it’s not a session full of “Look at me, smile!” I’m simply there to document your baby’s personality and capture them authentically as they are.
What if the weather is bad?
Life is unpredictable, and weather—as well as children—can be just as unpredictable, which I find pretty beautiful. It’s one of the reasons I love photographing families: the raw, real moments that arise with babies and children and the way weather can surprise us.
We’ll work with whatever shows up. Rain? Let’s grab some rain boots and splash in puddles! That said, safety is always a priority, and if the weather becomes unsafe or overwhelming, we can absolutely reschedule for a new time and date. We’re here to have fun, after all!
How many photos do I get?
All best photos from our session will be selected (any blinking, duplicate or unflattering photos will be deleted) and carefully edited by me. No need to choose your photos or pay for extra. The amount of photos you receive depends on your package and the amount of time we spend together.
What’s the best time of day for family photos?
You know your child best, and I know lighting best! After you book your session, we’ll chat to find a time that combines beautiful lighting with the part of the day your family feels at its best.
What if my child doesn’t cooperate or has a meltdown?
To set us up for success, we’ll schedule the session at a time of day when your child is happiest, pick an activity they love, and focus on letting them play and have fun rather than posing. This keeps the experience enjoyable and relaxed.
Of course, there’s always a chance your child might not be in the mood that day. If that happens, we’ll take a deep breath and give them some time and space to reset and lighten the mood.
Can grandparents or pets be included in the session?
These packages are designed for two parents and 1-2 children. I only offer these family sessions as this is type of photography I am really passionate about which leads to the best photos I can take for you!
Do you offer outdoor and indoor sessions?
Yes! You can choose locations that feel most comfortable and best suit your family. If you’re unsure where you’d like to take photos, I can help you decide. For packages that include multiple locations, you can even choose both indoor and outdoor settings if you’d like.
Browse two full galleries
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Sinead Todd & Remy
A morning session in the forest by the lake
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Shannon Dj & Winnie
An afternoon session inside the family home
2025 Packages
Package 1: The Day in the Life
Price: $2,000
A full-day (up to 8 hours) documentary-style session capturing your family’s authentic story, from morning to evening.
What a day might look like:
Morning Snuggles: Begin the day cuddling under cozy blankets or sharing a pancake breakfast.
Playtime Adventures: Building forts, reading books, or chasing each other in the backyard.
Lunch Together: Enjoy a simple, joyful meal at the family table—messy faces and giggles included.
Afternoon Fun: Explore the outdoors with a walk in the forest, splashing in puddles, or jumping on the trampoline.
Evening Wind-Down: Capture bath-time giggles, brushing little teeth, and snuggling up with bedtime stories.
Includes:
100+ professionally edited high-resolution photos.
A digital slideshow highlighting the most heartwarming and fun moments of the day.
Online gallery to view, download and share your photos with family and friends.
Assistance with planning and preparing for your session.
Package 2: The Milestones & Growth
Price: $1,100
Two 1 - 2 hour photo sessions at different times and locations of your choice, scheduled within 12 months.
Perfect for documenting the changes in your child's life, from growing bigger to celebrating milestones like their first birthday, Christmas, and more.
Includes:
40 + professionally edited high-resolution photos per session (80 + total).
A digital slideshow showcasing highlights from both sessions.
Online gallery to view, download and share your photos with family and friends.
Assistance with planning and preparing for your session.
Package 1: The Keepsake
Price: $650
1- 2 hour photo session at one location.
We’ll focus on your family’s unique dynamic, capturing candid moments that reflect the love and laughter you share. Whether you choose a familiar spot that feels like home or a location with special meaning, this session is about making memories in the places where you feel most comfortable and connected.
Includes:
40 + professionally edited high-resolution photos
A digital slideshow showcasing highlights from your session.
Online gallery to view, download and share your photos with family and friends.
Assistance with planning and preparing for your session.
Package 4: The Cozy Portraits
Price: $450
30-minute photo session at home.
This package is perfect for families looking to capture the warmth and simplicity of life in their own homes. This session can only be booked within 30 days of the shoot date. For locations outside of North Vancouver, an additional travel fee will apply.
Includes:
10 + professionally edited high-resolution photos.
Focused on simple, natural moments in a familiar environment.
Online gallery to view, download and share your photos with family and friends.
Assistance with planning and preparing for your session.