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.
5 Reasons We Love Engagement Sessions at Joshua Tree (And Why You Might Too)
If you’ve ever been out to Joshua Tree, you already know that it doesn’t feel like anywhere else in Southern California.
It’s quiet.
It’s expansive.
And somehow, it feels both wild and incredibly peaceful at the same time.
We’ve photographed engagement sessions all across Southern California, from beaches to mountains to cityscapes. But Joshua Tree always holds a special place in our hearts.
And if you’re considering a Joshua Tree engagement session, here are five reasons why we love it (and why you just might fall in love with it too).
Meet the Family Behind krisann photography
f you’ve ever wondered who’s behind the cameras at krisann photography, this is us. Not just as photographers, but as a family.
We’re a family-run photography and videography team based in Riverside, California, serving Southern California and beyond. What started as a small, personal passion has grown into something we now build together as husband, wife, and son.
But this story didn’t start with photography.
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.
A New Year Through the Lens | What 2026 Means for krisann photography
A new year always brings a sense of reflection and hope. As I step into 2026, I find myself pausing to look back at the stories we’ve been trusted to capture, the families who have welcomed us into their lives, and the moments that reminded me why photography matters so much.
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 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."
Senior Spotlight: Keenan Cooper | San Francisco State Graduate Portrait Session in San Pedro, CA
Some sessions leave a lasting impression — not just because of the photos we create, but because of the heart behind the story. Keenan Cooper’s senior portrait session was one of those unforgettable moments.
Keenan recently graduated from San Francisco State University, an incredible milestone in itself. But what makes his journey even more inspiring is his vision for the future: he feels called to become both a lawyer and a pastor. A rare and powerful combination — one that speaks to his deep desire to serve, lead, and bring justice and hope into the world. It was truly an honor to help him celebrate this chapter of his life through photography.