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May 19, 2025

What to Expect from a Family Session with Leslie Meadow Photography | Anchorage Family Photographer

If you’re wondering what a family photo session with Leslie Meadow Photography is like, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re a returning client or new to the wild and wonderful world of Alaska family photography, I want to give you a little peek behind the scenes of what it’s really like to step in front of my camera.

Spoiler Alert: It’s Not Your Typical “Say Cheese” Session

Think less stiff poses and forced smiles—think more chasing giggles through wildflowers, snack breaks on mossy rocks, and spontaneous dance parties in the golden light. My sessions are laid-back, joy-filled, and rooted in connection. We’re not aiming for perfect—we’re aiming for real. That means scrunchy nose laughs, muddy toes, and the kind of hugs you feel in your bones.

Because let’s be honest: kids don’t sit still. And that’s kind of the point.

For the Dirt-Loving, Puddle-Jumping Adventurers

These sessions are built for your butterfly watchers, rock collectors, snack negotiators, and dirt-loving explorers. We don’t force moments—we find them. Whether we’re wandering through wildflower fields, exploring mossy trails, or letting the kids lead the way down a gravel path, we let nature and your family’s personality guide the flow.

Some families worry their kids are “too wild” or “won’t cooperate.” Please hear this: wild is welcome here. In fact, it’s celebrated. Movement and play are part of the experience, not something to overcome.

We Focus on What Matters: You

The heart of every session is connection. My goal is to capture your family as you truly are—tight-knit, goofy, loving, maybe a little chaotic, but always yours. I’ll gently guide you when needed, but mostly, I observe and encourage you to just be together. Hug. Tickle. Run. Snuggle. Repeat.

Alaska Is the Ultimate Backdrop

There’s nothing quite like the wild beauty of Alaska to frame your family’s story. Whether it’s the towering mountains, serene forests, golden tundra, or the soft, diffused light of a cloudy day—this place does the heavy lifting when it comes to atmosphere. I’ll scout a location that feels like you and makes the most of what nature is giving us that day.

Want to Learn More?

Curious how to prepare? I’ve got you covered. Head over to www.lesliemeadow.com for FAQs and tips to get ready for your session. And be sure to follow along on Instagram at @lesliemeadowphotography for behind-the-scenes peeks, client features, and photo tips.

Let’s Make Some Magic

If you’re ready to explore, laugh, play, and maybe get a little muddy—let’s make it happen, contact me here!  Your family’s story is already beautiful. Let’s tell it in a way that feels like you.

anchorage family photography

May 18, 2025

Newborn Photography Anchorage | The Newborn Session Experience

Welcoming a new baby into the world is one of life’s most beautiful (and sleep-deprived) adventures—and capturing those fleeting, tiny details is what I love most about newborn photography.

If you’re curious about what a newborn session with Leslie Meadow Photography looks like, let me walk you through the experience. Spoiler alert: it’s relaxed, heartfelt, and tailored to your growing family.

A Cozy, Calm Studio Experience

All newborn sessions take place in my warm and welcoming studio in Anchorage, designed to feel calm, cozy, and baby-friendly. You don’t need to bring a thing (except the baby, of course!)—I’ve got you covered with a full collection of wraps, hats, headbands, baskets, blankets, and props. Soft textures, timeless colors, and beautiful light come together to create dreamy, artful portraits.

My goal is to make this experience as stress-free as possible. You just show up, relax, and I’ll gently guide you through it all.

Family First

We begin each session with family photos while everyone is fresh and cuddly. I always start with the full family together, then move into combinations:
• Mom + baby (+ siblings if you’d like)
• Partner + baby (+ siblings)
• Siblings together

These moments are full of connection and tenderness—the big-sibling kisses, the proud parent gazes, the quiet joy of holding your little one close. They’re the heart of the session.

Then, We Focus on Baby

Once we’ve captured the family moments, we move on to solo newborn portraits. These are the dreamy, sleepy, curled-up poses that everyone loves. I take my time, working gently and patiently to ensure your baby is comfortable and safe throughout. We’ll photograph your baby wrapped, unwrapped, in props, and posed naturally to show off all that sweet squishiness.

Tiny fingers. Wrinkly toes. Button noses. Fuzzy shoulders. These small details change so fast—my job is to freeze them in time for you.

Your Session, Your Story

Every family is unique, and every session is customized to reflect your story. Whether you want a classic neutral vibe or something a little more colorful and playful, we’ll create a beautiful gallery that fits your style.

Prepare with Ease

Wondering what to wear or how to prepare older siblings? I’ve got helpful tips on www.lesliemeadow.com, plus daily inspiration over on Instagram at @lesliemeadowphotography. I’m here to help every step of the way.

Let’s Capture This Chapter

Those first few weeks go by in a blur—but your images will last a lifetime. If you’re ready to celebrate your new addition with a session that’s relaxed, loving, and beautifully timeless, I’d love to work with you. You can contact me here https://lesliemeadow.com/contact/

newborn photography anchorage

May 16, 2025

How to Take Better Photos of Your Kids This Summer (Using Just Your iPhone!) | Anchorage Family Photographer

Summer is here, and that means sticky popsicles, sprinkler runs, sandy toes, and a million tiny memories you’ll want to remember forever. While I love capturing those moments for families professionally, some of the best memories happen spontaneously—on vacation, in the backyard, or even just during a wild bubble bath. The good news? You already have a powerful camera in your pocket.

If you’re a parent with an iPhone and a busy kid, this post is for you. Here are 9 easy tips to help you take better photos of your little ones this summer—no fancy equipment or photography degree needed.

1. Get Down to Their Level

One of the biggest mistakes I see is shooting from above. Try crouching, kneeling, or even lying down to get eye-level with your child. It makes a huge difference in how connected and intimate the photo feels.

Bonus: Kids look way cuter when you’re not shooting the tops of their heads. 😉

2. Use Natural Light (And Avoid the Flash!)

Natural light is your best friend. Shoot outside in the early morning or late afternoon for soft, golden light. If you’re indoors, position your kid near a window with the light coming in from the side.

Avoid using your iPhone’s flash—it usually creates harsh shadows and that dreaded “deer in headlights” look.

3. Adjust Exposure with a Simple Slide

Here’s a trick most people don’t know: once you tap to focus on your subject, a little sun icon appears. Slide up to brighten or down to darken the image before you take the shot. This gives you more control and helps avoid blown-out skies or muddy shadows.

4. Turn Off Live Photo for Sharper Shots

Live Photo captures a quick video snippet before and after your shot. Cool, yes—but it can make your images softer, especially if there’s motion. If you’re trying to get crisp, still photos, consider turning Live Photo off (tap the yellow rings icon at the top of the Camera app) for a sharper result.

5. Turn on Grid Lines

Go to Settings > Camera > Grid and turn them on! This helps you use the rule of thirds, which basically means placing your subject off-center for a more balanced, interesting photo.

Tip: Keep horizons straight. It’s a small thing that makes your photos feel way more polished.

6. Burst Mode is Your Best Friend

Kids are fast. Like cheetah with a juice box fast. To make sure you capture the perfect moment, use burst mode by holding down the shutter button. Later, you can scroll through the burst and pick the best shot.

No more mid-blink or blurry dashes. Win!

7. Don’t Overuse Portrait Mode

Portrait mode is great when used right, but it can sometimes blur out the wrong parts—like your kid’s arms or the toy they’re holding. Try using the regular photo mode for active or close-up shots, and save portrait mode for when your kid is still and there’s good lighting.

Real-life moments don’t always need fake blur to feel beautiful.

8. Clean Your Lens (Seriously!)

Your phone hangs out in pockets, purses, and sticky hands all day. A quick wipe with your shirt or a lens cloth can instantly improve your photo quality. It sounds silly, but a smudgy lens is the #1 culprit behind dull, blurry photos.

9. Capture the Little Details

You don’t always need a smiling face to tell a story. Zoom in on sandy fingers, messy ice cream mouths, shadowy sidewalk chalk, or their tiny feet running through the sprinkler. Those are the details you’ll want to remember someday.

Bonus Tip: Edit Lightly

iPhone editing tools are awesome. A little boost in brightness, contrast, and sharpness can take your image from “eh” to “wow.” You don’t need to go overboard—just enough to make it pop.

Remember: The best camera is the one you have with you, and your iPhone is more than enough to capture the magic of summer.

The images below are a quick example of how using the tips above and being intentional with your image can get you different results! My oldest took the one on the left with her phone and then I asked what she was going for and we made a few quick adjustments and she took the one on the right! The tips apply to landscape/kids and whatever else your heart desires to photograph! Happy shooting!

summer anchorage family alaska photography

Of course, if you want to be in the photos (instead of always taking them), I’d love to help. Book a summer family session with me—sticky fingers and all. ☀️

📸 Follow along on Instagram @lesliemeadowphotography for more tips, behind-the-scenes, and everyday magic.

May 16, 2025

Why Summer is the Perfect Time for Your Next Family or Important Milestone Session in Alaska | Anchorage Family Photographer

Hey friends!

If we’ve worked together before (and I’m lucky that so many of you are repeat clients — thank you!), you already know how magical Alaska is in every season. But summer? Summer here hits different — especially when it comes to capturing your family’s love and laughter on camera.

So if you’ve been thinking about booking a family or milestone session this year, here’s why summer is the sweet spot:

🌞 1. Long, Golden Hours of Light

Alaskan summers gift us with endless daylight. Seriously — we’re talking daylight that lingers. This means more time to play, explore, and create that dreamy, sun-kissed magic that makes your photos glow. Late evening sessions? Yes, please!

🌿 2. Nature in Full Bloom

Wildflowers, lush greenery, and wide-open mountain views — summer in Alaska brings a color palette that’s hard to beat. Whether it’s your kiddo’s first birthday, a senior session, or just an updated family portrait, the vibrant backdrop of summer adds life to every frame.

🧒 3. Happy, Barefoot Kiddos

Let’s be honest — kids are just happier when they’re not bundled in six layers. Summer means no mittens to wrangle, no frozen noses, and more genuine giggles. Plus, it’s the perfect season for candid, barefoot-in-the-meadow kind of memories.

📅 4. Milestones & Moments

Summer often marks meaningful transitions — graduations, birthdays, anniversaries, and new beginnings. It’s the perfect time to celebrate the chapter you’re in. These sessions don’t need to be overly posed or formal — just real, relaxed, and authentically you.

📸 5. The Familiar Joy of Being Together

For many of you, we’ve documented your family year after year. Summer gives us the space to slow down, reconnect, and create something beautiful — whether it’s at your favorite spot or somewhere new we find together. And yes, dogs are always welcome.

Let’s Make It Happen

Summer dates fill up fast, especially with all of Alaska waking up and getting outside. If you’re ready to book your next session — or even just thinking about it — let’s chat soon. I’d love to see your familiar faces again and capture this season of your story.

Because time flies. And summer, well… summer shines.

📅 [Book Your Session Here]
📸 Follow along on Instagram:
👉 @lesliemeadowphotography for all things photography.
👉 @lesliesarten for a peek behind the scenes and my everyday adventures.

anchorage family summer photographer

May 16, 2025

Tips for Planning Your Multi-Family Photography Session on Your Alaskan Vacation | Anchorage Family Photography

There’s nothing quite like an epic family getaway to Alaska—the breathtaking landscapes, the wild adventures, and the rare chance to gather everyone together. What better way to preserve those memories than with a multi-family photography session? Whether you’re reuniting for a big celebration or simply enjoying some quality time, a well-planned photo session will ensure you capture the magic of your trip.

Here are some tips to make your multi-family photo session smooth, organized, and memorable.

📌 1. Communicate the Specific Groupings You Want Captured

When you have multiple families, it’s easy to get caught up in the chaos of trying to capture everyone. To avoid missing important combinations, take some time beforehand to think through the groupings you want.

✅ Tip: Create a shot list and share it with your photographer in advance. Here are some common groupings to consider:

  • The whole crew together

  • Each individual family unit

  • Grandparents with grandkids

  • Cousins together

  • Siblings or in-laws

  • Just the kids

  • Couple portraits (because parents deserve cute photos too!)

This prep work will help keep the session flowing smoothly, ensuring you get all the photos you want without scrambling to remember who’s missing.

🌿 2. Choose a Scenic Location That Works for Larger Groups

Alaska offers no shortage of jaw-dropping backdrops, but it’s important to pick a location that accommodates larger groups. Open areas like beaches, meadows, or forest clearings allow for flexible posing and plenty of space. I have several go-to spots that are easy access and ensure we get stunning scenery.

Pro Tip: If you’re dreaming of mountains or glacier views, keep in mind that remote spots may require some travel. Choose a location with easy accessibility, especially if you have young kids or grandparents in the group.

🧥 3. Dress in Coordinated, Not Matching, Outfits

Coordinating outfits for a large group doesn’t mean you all need to wear the same flannel shirt (unless that’s your vibe—then go for it!). Instead, stick to a complementary color palette. Think earthy tones like sage, cream, rust, plum, and navy, which blend beautifully with Alaska’s natural scenery.

Tips for cohesive styling:

  • Mix solids and subtle patterns (like plaids or florals) to add variety.

  • Avoid logos or distracting graphics.

  • Layers (jackets, vests, scarves) add depth and texture—plus, they’ll keep you warm if the Alaskan weather turns brisk.

🌅 4. Plan for the Best Lighting

Alaska’s long summer days mean you have more flexibility with your session time, but golden hour still reigns supreme. For the dreamiest light, aim for a session during the morning or evening time frame.

Why it matters:

  • Softer light = fewer shadows and more flattering portraits.

  • Sunset hues over the mountains or water add extra magic to your photos.

If you have young kids with earlier bedtimes, consider a morning session when they’re fresh and happy.

😎 5. Relax and Enjoy the Experience

Let’s face it—coordinating multiple families can feel a bit like herding cats. But once you arrive, take a deep breath and enjoy the experience. The best photos often come from candid moments—kids giggling, grandparents sharing a glance, or the whole family laughing at an inside joke.

Trust your photographer to guide you through the session. They’ll help with posing, keep the energy light, and capture the in-between moments that truly reflect your family’s dynamic.

📷 Ready to Book Your Multi-Family Session?

If you’re heading to Alaska for a family vacation, let’s capture those memories with a stunning multi-family photography session. Whether you’re exploring Kenai Fjords, Denali, or the coastal beauty of Seward, I’ll help you create timeless portraits you’ll treasure for years.

👉 Contact me today to reserve your session during your Alaskan adventure. Let’s make some unforgettable memories together!

Alaska family travel photographer

May 16, 2025

10 Fun Facts About Leslie You Might Not Know! | Anchorage photographer

10 Fun Facts About Leslie You Might Not Know

Hey there, lovelies! 👋 I’m Leslie, the face behind the camera capturing your cherished memories. You probably know me best for my love of golden-hour light and my knack for taming even the sassiest toddlers into adorable smiles. But there’s so much more to me beyond the lens! Here are 10 fun facts to help you get to know me better.

🌿 1. Alaska Is My Playground

I’m lucky enough to call Alaska home, and its rugged beauty is my creative playground. Whether I’m photographing a family against a snow-capped mountain or chasing the perfect light along a forest trail, I’m constantly inspired by this wild, breathtaking landscape.

📷 2. I’m a Daydreamer with a Camera

Photography isn’t just my job—it’s my passion. I’m obsessed with light, texture, and emotion. My goal? To tell your story through timeless, artful images that transport you back to that fleeting moment every time you look at them.

🎨 3. I’m a Creative at Heart

When I’m not holding my camera, I’m probably beading, painting, or finding some other creative outlet. I believe that creativity is like a muscle—the more you use it, the stronger it gets!

🥾 4. I’m an Adventurer

Whether it’s hiking remote trails or discovering hidden gems while camping, I’m always up for an adventure. It’s probably why I have such a soft spot for outdoor family sessions—they combine my love of exploration with my love for storytelling.

☕ 5. Coffee Is My Love Language

I’m a total coffee enthusiast. Whether I’m sipping a local brew in Eagle River or making a fancy cold brew at home, coffee is my creative fuel (and my secret to keeping up with energetic toddlers during sessions 😉).

🐾 6. Animals Make Me Melt

I have a soft spot for furry friends, and I’ve been known to include dogs in family shoots whenever possible. If your pup is part of your family, bring them along—I’ll be the first to sneak in some extra treats for them.

🎵 7. Music Fuels My Creativity

I have an ever-growing playlist for my editing sessions. From soulful folk tunes to indie rock, music helps me tap into the mood and feel of your photos.

🛫 8. I Love to Travel

Exploring new places and cultures is one of my biggest inspirations. Whether it’s capturing the vibrant streets of a new city, discovering new mountains snowboarding, snorkeling in tropical waters, or the quiet serenity of the Alaskan wilderness, traveling keeps my creative spark alive.

🍂 9. I’m a Fall Fanatic

I’m obsessed with fall—the colors, the crisp air, and the golden light. It’s hands-down my favorite season for photoshoots. (Pro tip: if you’re planning a session, fall is magical in Alaska!)

💖 10. My Clients Are My Inspiration

Cliche but true! Seeing your reactions when you receive your images or hearing how they brought back memories is what keeps me going. Your stories fuel my creativity, and I’m so grateful to be the one capturing them.

✨ Thank you for trusting me with your precious moments. Whether we’re capturing your growing family, your love story, or your new adventure, I’m honored to be part of it. If you’re ready for your next photoshoot—or just want to say hi—reach out anytime.

📸 Follow along on Instagram:
👉 @lesliemeadowphotography for all things photography.
👉 @lesliesarten for a peek behind the scenes and my everyday adventures.

💌 Let’s create something beautiful together!

Anchorage adventure family alaska