Behind the Lens | Stories, Tips & Real Sessions from a Southern California Photographer
Welcome to the krisann photography blog! Your behind-the-scenes look at life through our lens. Here we share everything from heartfelt wedding day recaps and joyful family sessions to photography tips, location inspiration, and real stories from the couples and families we’re lucky enough to capture. Whether you're planning your big day, preparing for your next session, or just love beautiful imagery and meaningful moments, we’re so glad you're here. Follow along as we document love, light, and connection all across Southern California and beyond.
How to Feel Comfortable in Front of the Camera | 10 Confidence-Boosting Tips
I hear it all the time—“I’m so awkward in front of the camera.” Or, “I never know what to do with my hands.” Trust me, you’re not alone! Whether you're getting portraits taken for the first time in years, planning a family session, or stepping in front of the lens for a branding shoot—feeling nervous is completely normal. So today, I’m sharing my top 10 tips to help you do exactly that. These are the same things I share with my own clients before every session because everyone deserves to feel confident in their story.
Summer Golden Hour Mini Sessions in Redlands, CA
There is something truly magical about summer evenings.
The warm glow of the sun, soft golden light filtering through the trees, and those long, carefree evenings create the perfect setting for beautiful, timeless portraits. This summer, we're so excited to be offering our Summer Golden Hour Mini Sessions at a gorgeous new location in Redlands, California, and we can't wait to share it with you.
Family Sessions - Full or Mini | Choosing the Right Session for Your Memories
Wondering whether a full photography session or a mini session is the best fit for your family? At krisann photography, we’ve created this guide to help you decide — and to share why our fall mini sessions are one of the most popular choices of the year.
The Season Before Everything Changes | A Heisler Park Mother-Daughter Story
It was one of those perfect Southern California days. Blue skies. Ocean breeze. The kind of light photographers dream about. We stopped for lunch, wandered the paths at Heisler Park, grabbed coffee, talked about life, and yes, took absolutely gorgeous photos in between.
But what made this session special wasn’t just the location (though Laguna Beach never disappoints). It was the season they’re in.
Angel is graduating high school soon.
And if you’re a mom reading this, you already know. That sentence carries weight.
What I Hope People Feel When They Look at Their Photos Years From Now
Years from now, when those photos are framed on walls or tucked into albums, I hope they bring people back to that sweet day — the laughter, the love, and the moments that mattered most. Because long after the flowers fade and the day has passed, what remains is love — and we’re honored to capture it.
A Thank You Letter to Our Clients
As I sit down to write this, I can feel my heart overflowing with gratitude. Over the past 15+ years, we’ve had the privilege of capturing thousands of moments — weddings, engagements, family sessions, graduations, newborn snuggles, and everything in between. But as beautiful as the photographs are, it’s the people in them — you — who truly make our work so meaningful.
What 15+ Years as Photographers Has Taught Us (And Why It Matters to You)
More than fifteen years. That’s hundreds of weddings, countless engagement sessions, family portraits, maternity shoots, senior sessions, and more love stories than we can possibly count. Over the years, we’ve been welcomed into some of life’s most important moments — from tearful vows and joyful first dances to tiny newborn yawns and milestone celebrations.
Photography has been more than our profession. It’s been our family’s passion, our shared purpose, and one of the greatest blessings of our lives.
What Your Photographer Secretly Wishes You Knew Before Picture Day
After photographing hundreds of families, couples, and seniors over the last 15+ years, I’ve learned that a truly great portrait session isn’t just about fancy cameras or golden-hour light — it’s about showing up prepared, relaxed, and ready to have fun (yes, FUN!).
So, in the spirit of honesty, here’s what your friendly photographer (that’s me) really wants you to know before your portrait session. These aren’t rules — just helpful tips that can make the difference between "that was stressful" and "wow, that was actually kind of amazing."