Sometimes the simplest setups create the most heartfelt memories. This sweet lifestyle session in the studio with the Hart family was one of my very first in my studio. And it perfectly shows how much love and laughter you can capture with just one outfit set and one cozy backdrop.


The Harts kept their look casual and comfortable, which worked beautifully for the space.


Mom wore a chunky olive-green sweater with relaxed jeans and chic snakeskin boots. While Dad’s rust-colored button-down brought warmth to the palette. Their son tied it all together with an easy plaid shirt in earthy greens and blues, making the whole family feel perfectly coordinated without being too “matchy.”


And we can’t forget the real stars of the session—their two pups! The dogs curled up on laps and leaned in for snuggles. Overall, making the photos feel even more natural and fun. This was a great way to capture what a cozy Saturday night at home feels like... without actually having to clean your space.


What I love most about this lifestyle session in the studio is how much joy just popped through the camera. Because it was so authentic and real for them.  


The Harts didn’t worry about posing perfectly. They just leaned into being together. That’s the magic I always encourage families to focus on: loving on each other as much as you can during your session. It’s the secret ingredient that turns simple photos into treasured keepsakes.


That's why, when people tell me they're "awkward" in front of the camera, I never believe it. Because those posed, stiff photos... that's not where the LIFE is at.


For the Hart family, even though we just worked with one “set,” in the studio the variety was there in their final gallery. From the whole family of three piled together on the vintage sofa, to sweet individual portraits, to candid shots full of laughter, we created a gallery that could easily fill a holiday card, a gallery wall, or even a yearbook of family memories.


This session is also a great example of how styling can elevate the look of your photos.


When you work with me to choose outfits, I can tweak the studio space to complement your colors and textures. This helps everything feel seamless and intentional. And you end up with images that feel both timeless and cohesive. But most importantly? Uniquely yours.


The Hart family’s lifestyle session in the studio proves that you don’t need a sprawling backdrop or multiple outfit changes to create meaningful photos.


With a little thoughtfulness in styling (and a lot of love), your family’s connection will be front and center.

parents snuggle pups and child on couch for lifestyle session in studio
child pets dog on mom's lap on the couch by Claire Malaby Photography
parents snuggle dogs on couch while son talks to them by Austin family photographer
son sits on floor in front of couch for lifestyle session in studio
mother throws her head back laughing next to family on couch by Claire Malaby Photography
mom and son watch the dogs play in studio by Austin family photographer
mom laughs as pups reach for her on couch for lifestyle session in studio
parents relax on studio couch while son and pups sit on floor by Claire Malaby Photography
mom and dad sit on couch with son on floor by Austin family photographer
son stands in front of window in plaid shirt for lifestyle session in studio