When this family contacted me about having family photos taken during their trip to Vancouver, I loved the reason behind it. They have made a tradition of documenting their family vacations with professional photos—not just to remember where they went, but to capture who their family was at that particular point in their lives. They […]

Choosing the right location for your family photos can completely shape the feel of your session. Some families want ocean views and iconic Vancouver scenery, while others are drawn to quiet trails, rustic landscapes, or wide open fields where their kids can run freely. After photographing families throughout Vancouver and the Fraser Valley, I’ve learned […]

Can Dogs Be Included in Family Photos? Absolutely. One of the questions I get asked fairly often is, “Can our dog be in our family photos?” My answer is almost always yes. In fact, I think it’s almost a non-question. Of course your dog should be included in your family photos! For many families, dogs […]

When families ask me where they should book their family photos in Vancouver, Coal Harbour is one of the first places that comes to mind. Not because it’s trendy. Not because it’s the one of the most photographed locations in the city. But because it feels unmistakably Vancouver. The mountains in the distance. The ocean […]

If you’ve been looking for a family photographer, you’ve probably come across the term “lifestyle family photography.” But what does that actually mean? Lifestyle family photography is a style of photography that focuses on genuine connection, emotion and interaction rather than perfectly posed photographs. That doesn’t mean I simply follow your family around and hope […]

If figuring out what your family should wear for professional photos makes you want to close your laptop and get to it later (or, not at all!)… you’re not alone. One of the first things almost every mom says to me is: “I have no idea what everyone should wear.” I get it. You’re trying […]

How to Prepare Your Dog for a Family Photo Session For many families, bringing the dog to their family photo session isn’t even a question but they simply don’t know how to prepare themselves (or their dogs!) for the photos. Over the years, I’ve photographed hundreds of families during their Vancouver family photo sessions, and […]

Greenhouse Mini Sessions June 13 | Family Photography in Pitt Meadows I’m planning a small set of greenhouse mini sessions on June 13, 2026 and I wanted to share a bit more about what these will look like. If you’ve been thinking about updating family photos but haven’t quite gotten around to it yet, this is […]

This Richmond in-home family session was photographed using the beautiful natural light that poured through their home. As a Vancouver family photographer, I always aim to create images that feel honest rather than overly posed, so instead of directing every moment, I encouraged this family to simply be together. From cuddles on the couch to […]

An example of a light and airy, in-home lifestyle newborn session with a toddler. This gallery showcases a good well-rounded idea of what families could expect from a session with Meliza Orellana Photography, Vancouver photographer