Pics or it didn’t happen. It’s the cliched catchphrase of our generation. 50 years ago photos were rare, 25 years ago we would save our pennies for film and the cost of 24-hour development at the local pharmacy. But now? Now we are constantly snapping, editing, and digitally sharing photos right from our phones. And yet, it’s difficult to overstate the power of a professional photo – a printed copy to frame and hang. What’s more, they aren’t just for us. Living so far away from family, it can be hard to share those special everyday moments. A photo of a growing baby bump or a growing family is something special for grandparents, aunts, and uncles who can’t be a part of milestones big and small. Luckily Beijing has a thriving community of photographers who specialize in baby and family photos. Below are a few of the capital’s best:
Photographer: Desanka Popovic
Company: The Purest Memories
Years in Beijing: 5
Why do you love family photography?
“There are a few moments in life that are really important and give us the greatest feelings…One picture has such power to bring back all the memories, feelings, and remind you how life is beautiful. Where can we see more life and love than in mothers who are expecting, families with their children, or in a baby’s laugh? Nothing can bring more joy to my heart than working with these people.”
How would you describe your style?
“Pureness and warmth…That is what people should feel when they get their albums.”
What makes a great family photo?
“Passion…an eye for a detail, connection with clients, patience, calm and peaceful atmosphere, and at the end the way of editing it.”
What tips do you have for families preparing for their shoot?
“Be natural, just to do whatever you do when people are not around. Kiss, hug, speak, love each other. Don’t think about what you’re going to look like, because natural is the most beautiful.”
Contact:
WeChat: Desa991
Phone: +8615600550215
Instagram: the_purest_memories
Photographer: Jiehao Chen
Company: Jiehao Photography
Years in Beijing: 11
Why do you love family photography?
“Taking pictures of children and pets is like playing a game and hitting a boss level you didn’t even know existed. You really have to think on your two feet and adjust to whatever happens next.”
How would you describe your style?
“Candid.”
What makes a great family photo?
“Having a great time together on a shoot.”
What tips do you have for families preparing for their shoot?
“1. Patience is limited for most young creatures, rather than long drives to your ideal location, ask your photographer for nice, hidden spots in town or close to your home, we have everything from ancient to modern, urban to nature. Make sure the most cooperative hours are used on photo taking, not commute. 2. Less is more, color story…shouldn’t be too complicated and taking away from you, the subject. 3. Be spontaneous…we’ll go along and make it fun.”
Contact:
WeChat: 1527430003
Website: www.jiehaophotography.com
Photographer: Dave Hanssen
Company: Dave’s Studio
Years in Beijing: 13
Why do you love family photography?
“The main reason is helping to create a beautiful family portrait that the family loves and that they can share with everyone. Especially in the last few years with the difficulties a lot of us have had with traveling back home. It’s great to be able to share a nice family portrait with those you love.”
How would you describe your style?
“I’d say my studio’s style is more on the natural side for family portraits, more relaxed. However, it really depends on our clients, we like to have an open dialogue with our clients to ensure that they get the images that fit their style the best.”
What makes a great family photo?
“In my opinion, a great family photo is one that feels natural, it doesn’t have to be perfect in every aspect, it doesn’t need to have everyone smiling and looking into the lens. Some of my most favorite family photos are caught when the family is relaxed, joking and playing with each other.”
What tips do you have for families preparing for their shoot?
“Don’t stress, it’s just a photo. My studio is here to help you pick out a wardrobe that goes well with your family, and a shooting location that fits your style. We also do our best to lower the stress level and keep the mode relaxed.”
Contact: 
Photographer: Aaron Berkovich
Why do you love family photography?
“Being able to help people share their own stories and experiences – especially for special moments like engagements, weddings, prenatal, or early childhood photos – is a very special way to immortalize those memories and experiences that can be shared with loved ones anywhere in the world. “
How would you describe your style?
“My style is naturally capturing moments as they happen and finding the angles that really tell the stories of the subjects.”
What makes a great family photo?
“Authenticity. It’s capturing the energy and excitement that really shows the personality of the subject coupled with a sense of place. I focus on environmental or location-based family photo sessions, to show not only these connections but to allow families to share their favorite places and memories in Beijing with loved ones around the world.”
What tips do you have for families preparing for their shoot?
“Be yourselves, dress comfortably, and have fun.”
Contact:
WeChat: 13120159494
Email: aaron@peking.studio
Photographer: Stacy Dudnyk
Company: Stacy Dudnyk Photography
Years in Beijing: 6
Why do you love family photography?
“I really enjoy photographing families, especially with young children. There is just so much love in there. I love capturing people’s feelings and emotions when they are expecting their little miracle to arrive and then when they’re welcoming a new member to their families. But the most precious moments for me are when I come to the same family several times and help parents capture how their children grow. First smile, first steps, first hugs…this is indescribable!”
How would you describe your style?
“I am a lifestyle photographer. I’m trying to tell each family’s unique story in the most natural, true way. I come to people’s homes and capture their lives, their routines, and their relationships. I work with natural light only, which is sometimes challenging but the outcome is always worth it.”
What makes a great family photo?
“Just be yourself – don’t pose – and relax, trust your photographer.”
What tips do you have for families preparing for their shoot?
“Think about it like a great opportunity to spend some quality time with your loved ones. Also don’t overthink about the outfits or props, at the end of the day, you and your emotions are things that matter, not the surrounding.”
Contact:
Scan the QR code on the poster above
Photographer: Varvara Kotsebuk
Company: Varya Kotsebuk Photography
Years in Beijing: 11
Why do you love family photography?
“I believe that photographs stop time and preserve memories of loved ones and relationships. At the heart of my photography is the desire for the clients to leave a legacy of love for the generations to come.”
How would you describe your style?
“Natural/Candid.”
What makes a great family photo?
“Choose a spot that has some significance to the family because it will make the photo more meaningful. As an added bonus, it will help keep young children and pets comfortable by shooting in a location they’re familiar with.”
What tips do you have for families preparing for their shoot?
“Many people consider their pets to be part of the family, and pet portraits are a growing trend, so why not include the furry friends in the family photo? Let the animal roam and interact with the family while you shoot: It could lead to some great candid moments.”
Contact: 
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Images: Desanka Popovic, Jiehao Chen, Dave Hanssen, Aaron Berkovich, Stacy Dudnyk, Varvara Kotsebuk
