Let’s just play and call it a photoshoot
Less posing. More of whatever your family looks like.
I didn’t always want to be a photographer. But teaching three years through a global pandemic wasn't what I signed up for, so now I live day to day as a stay-at-home mom with a camera in hand.
Those three years in a classroom taught me one thing really fast— you can't force anyone to cooperate. Not an eleven-year-old, not a stressed-out parent, and definitely not a toddler who's decided they're done. But what you CAN do is make it fun enough that they forget they were ever resistant in the first place.
Turns out that's exactly what makes a great photoshoot. I stopped asking kids to sit still approximately five minutes into my first shoot and never looked back. I rarely ask a bride to "hold still so I can get that shot!" and sneak in unnoticed instead. Which means whatever your family brings to the session, I've seen it all. And the photos were still *incredible.*
Hi, I’m Kaleigh
Making a photoshoot feel fun is what I do best.
Any good photographer knows that most people hate being in front of the camera. You feel nervous, don't know what to do with your hands, and worry if your chin hairs will show on camera. So I focus less on having a "perfect photoshoot" and more on being someone you want to spend an hour with. Someone who makes the whole thing feel fun and easy. The reluctant husband, wild toddler, nervous bride— I've got something up my sleeve for all of them. (And, your photos will be outstanding, duh!)
Chaos is kinda my love language
I'm a stay-at-home mom of two (who, for the record, act like kids). You'll find me with my morning coffee before anything else happens and squeezing in a 10:30 am workout with my Ladies Edge girls. I love eating Dots pretzels while editing during nap time.
I'm growing in my new faith with Jesus, and it's been the best walk ever. I'm obsessed with learning everything I can about this craft, and genuinely convinced that ice cream fixes most things. And at the end of the day, I'm just a family gal with a camera who happens to be really good at documenting yours.
"Kaleigh did a wonderful job with our family photos. We have four kids aged 12 and under and it can be difficult to capture photos while they are actually looking at the camera, smiling, etc. She was professional, patient, and a joy to work with. My wife & I will definitely be repeat customers!"
The Woody Family, Louisa, VA
Wondering how I edit?
What Your Photos Will Look Like
My editing style is true-to-life with a bright, airy touch. Colors stay natural and accurate to what you saw in the moment, while subtle film-inspired tones add a lil' warmth and depth without feeling overdone. The whole goal is for it to feel professional yet still like an untouched moment.
"Her editing style is natural and timeless."
"What stood out most was how enthusiastic and intentional she was in capturing our family during such meaningful seasons of life. We are so grateful for these memories and will absolutely continue booking future milestone sessions with Kaleigh Olinger Photography."
Olivia, Richmond, VA
View My Gallery
Family + Milestones
Motherhood + Newborn
Weddings
If you looked at my Google search history, you’d find...
- "Best Dots pretzels bulk order"
- “How many cups of coffee is too many cups of coffee"
- "Fun photo prompts for families who hate photos"
- "Ice cream for breakfast is it okay"
- "Photography workshops near me 2024"
- "How to edit photos while kids are climbing on you"
- "Least amount of water needed for a human to survive"
- "What plants enjoy full sun"
And while we’re at it…
My Hot Takes:
→ Everyone in your family matching is not it. Coordinate colors, but don't put everyone in the same shirt or dress.
→ Morning sessions are underrated!
→ Chasing kids around a photoshoot actually makes my job easier.
→ I don't limit the number of photos I give, just to upcharge for more.
→ I prefer to use my camera screen over the viewfinder.
FAQ
How is Kaleigh Olinger different from other family photographers in the Locust Grove and Culpeper area?
The biggest difference is that I don't pose people. I give everyone something to do instead of somewhere to stand. A prompt that gets your husband laughing, a scenario that gets your toddler moving, a moment that happens naturally. And as a former teacher and SAHM of two, I show up to every session already knowing how to handle anything that happens. I want you to feel comfortable and at ease the whole session.
What if I don't want my child(ren)'s face shared online?
No worries at all. We can talk about your preferences. If you don’t want to share your session, you can sign an addendum for this exact scenario! If you just want to keep your child(ren)’s faces hidden, I can take photos with their backs to the camera. This way, we can still share the pictures on social media while keeping their privacy safe. I'll make sure I know your wishes before the session.
What should I expect from a session, and will it feel posed or natural?
’m here to document things naturally and tell a story with your family. You won’t feel like you’re in an awkward JCPenney photoshoot. If you haven’t left a session feeling like it was one giant hangout together, I haven’t done my job well.
Do you offer in-home sessions for newborns and young families?
Yes! As a motherhood photographer, maternity can be in-home or outdoor! Newborn sessions are done in the comfort of your own home, but a studio is available if necessary. There's no better backdrop for those early days than the space where your family actually lives!
Is Kaleigh a good fit if my kids don't cooperate or my family isn't 'picture-perfect'?
That's literally who I'm here for. I've never once needed a family to have it together to get a great gallery. Show up exactly as you are and worry about nothing. Seriously, I've got you.
How far in advance should I book a family or wedding photographer in the Fredericksburg and Orange County area?
For family sessions, booking 4-6 weeks out is ideal, especially for seasonal minis which fill up fast. And the best wedding photographer knows that booking at least 6-12 months in advance is smart, especially for peak season dates. The sooner you reach out, the better chance you have of locking in your date.
Life is pretty great right now, isn’t it? Let’s document it
