5 Ways to Be Intentional About Preserving Your Family Legacy This Year

As we step into a brand-new year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on how you want to preserve memories with your family throughout the year. Our days are filled with seemingly mundane moments that all too quickly pass by, and there’s no better time than now to start being intentional about preserving those memories. As both a mother and a newborn and family photographer I am passionate about what this means for you and your family as think about it for my own family as well! Whether it’s through professional photography or simple rhythms at home, here are five meaningful ways to honor and capture your family’s unique story this year.

1. Be Present Without Distractions

One of the greatest gifts you can give your family is your undivided attention. This year, let’s make a conscious effort to put our phones down and be fully present. More face to face and less screens in our hands. Whether it’s playing a silly game, having a meal together, or simply asking your 4 year old about their favorite super hero, this is something simple that we can focus on that makes a difference.

Knowing when to document and when to live in the moment is important. Consider using a disposable camera or a Polaroid for each month to capture candid moments without the distraction of editing or retakes. This allows you to balance being present with preserving memories.

2. Capture Your Children in Their Current Season

Kids grow and change so quickly, and each stage is worth remembering. Take individual portraits of your children to highlight their unique personalities and interests. Whether it’s their missing teeth, their love for a favorite toy, or their big milestones, these photos will bring you right back to remembering what they were like in this stage of their lives.

Stay tuned—I’ll be announcing something fun soon for a chance to book personality portraits for your little one!

3. Create Rhythms for Remembering

Here are a few ideas of rhythms for your family to help remember the season you are in:

• Start a Family Journal: Dedicate a notebook to recording funny quotes, milestones, or special moments throughout the year. Start small with a note on your phone to save these memories when they come to mind.
• Monthly Photos: Make it a habit to take one family photo each month. It doesn’t have to be perfect—it’s about capturing your family as you are.
• Memory Boxes: Create a box for each family member to store keepsakes, artwork, or notes. Over time, these boxes are so fun to look back on.
• Organize Your iPhone Photos: This one is a priority for me. Each month I have a reminder set on my phone to go through the photos and video I have taken. This helps me to narrow down the duplicates or delete ones that I don’t need to save. Digital clutter is real and I try to prioritize this so that it doesn’t get out of hand!

4. Print Your Photos

In our digital age, it’s easy for photos to stay trapped on phones and hard drives. Make a point to print your favorite images. Whether it’s making an album, framing prints, or even a family gallery wall, displaying your photos makes your memories tangible and easily accessible. Your kids will love seeing themselves and their family on the walls of your home too!

We have this simple magnetic hanging system in our kitchen where we rotate out B’s artwork and I am hoping to add some simple prints or polaroids to it this year!

5. Book Professional Family Photos

One of the most impactful ways to preserve your family legacy is by booking professional family photos. My goal as a family photographer is to capture the connection, joy, and maybe even chaos of your family in a way that will feel authentic and timeless. Whether you opt for a cozy in-home session or an outdoor adventure, I’m certain these images will become heirlooms that your family will treasure for years to come.

Consider booking an annual session or joining with the membership, which will allow you to document your family’s growth over the course of a year. Having consistent, high-quality images will tell a beautiful story of your family through the seasons.

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By taking intentional steps to preserve your family’s legacy this year, you’re creating a gift that will only grow more meaningful with time. Professional family photos are a wonderful foundation, but don’t underestimate the power of everyday moments and simple routines. Pick and choose a few things from this list that feel meaningful and doable for you!

Ready to book your session? Let’s connect and get you on the calendar!