Every family is different—different dynamics, different shapes and sizes. Some are loud and full of energy, others are quiet and calm. Some are big and blended, while others are small and tight-knit. But each one is beautiful in its own unique way.


So what is it that truly makes a family… a family?


Is it DNA? A shared last name? Maybe it’s the holiday traditions, or the inside jokes no one else understands. While all of those things can play a part, I believe the heart of a family isn’t found in bloodlines—it’s found in love.

Group of adults smiling and looking down at a newborn baby wrapped in a blanket on a front porch.
A loving couple shares tender outdoor moments while cradling their newborn baby in natural lighting.
A romantic couple shares a tender moment outdoors during an engagement photoshoot in a natural setting.
Two people stand smiling together under a decorative wall sign that reads 'HUSBAND' on a stone brick wall.
A sleeping baby in blue clothing rests peacefully between two adults wearing casual attire.
Two friends share a heartfelt laugh together while embracing on a front porch.
Two friends share a joyful moment of genuine laughter together on a porch near a door marked number 4.

Family is about the people we choose to let into our lives, the ones who show up, stay close, and make our world feel whole. Sometimes they arrive unexpectedly. Sometimes they walk in by chance. But over time, something clicks—and we decide that life just wouldn’t be the same without them in it.


As a photographer, I’ve had the honour of capturing extended family sessions for many years now, and I can honestly say that no two families are ever the same. I’ve met grandparents who raised their grandkids, step-siblings who became best friends, close friends who turned into family, and everything in between.


Every story is different. Every bond is special.


And that’s what I love most.


Each session is a little window into a world of connection, laughter, and history—sometimes messy, sometimes complicated, but always rooted in love. It’s a reminder that families aren’t something you fit into a template. They’re living, evolving, perfectly imperfect little communities built around shared moments and unshakable bonds.

A toddler in a cream-colored dress plays joyfully on an adult's lap in a lush garden setting.
A family gathers on outdoor steps while holding and smiling with their young children.
A happy family of three poses together in a garden setting with their toddler standing on a small stool.
A tender moment of comfort and connection as two people embrace on a wooden porch.
A couple shares a tender embrace while standing on a porch with a stone wall backdrop.
Two people stand together smiling outside a brick wall with a black decorative 'Husband' sign mounted above.
Young child in a cream-colored lace dress sitting on a wooden stepladder in a garden setting, holding a yellow flower.

So no, I don’t believe family is defined by DNA. I believe it’s defined by love—the kind of love that shows up, sticks around, and weaves itself into the everyday moments that matter the most.


And that’s something worth celebrating.

Person relaxing on outdoor furniture wearing baseball cap and casual attire.
Parent giving gentle kisses to baby dressed in light blue clothing outdoors.
Group photo of people posing together on a covered outdoor porch.
A couple shares a tender moment in a garden with blooming trees in the background.
Family group portrait sitting together on outdoor stone porch steps.
Two young girls in casual outfits share a playful moment while hugging outdoors.
Two people share intimate moments while leaning against stone wall with 'Husband' sign visible.