How Motherhood Made Me a Better Photographer
Motherhood has taught me to see the little things. The way a toddler grabs your finger. The smirk your son gives before he belly laughs. The way moms brush the hair from their baby’s face without even realizing it. These are the moments I’m looking for when I shoot.
I think that’s why so many of my clients feel comfortable with me. Because we’re walking similar paths. I understand the chaos and the beauty. I know how to make your kids feel at ease — and I know what it means to you when I capture that one real smile or that gentle forehead kiss.
If you’ve followed me for a while, you know I’m a photographer, a studio owner, and someone who thrives on capturing real, meaningful moments. But before all of that — I’m a mom. And the truth is, being a mother has shaped everything about the way I photograph.
Family and Maternity Session
Life Behind the Lens - and Behind the Scenes
I have three kids: two daughters (12 and 8) and a son (6). Life is full — full of school runs, snack requests, sibling dynamics, dance parties in the living room, and quiet, unexpected moments that make my heart skip a beat. These aren’t just memories I want to keep — they’re what inspire me to capture those same fleeting moments for the families who step in front of my camera. As my baby has recently graduated from Kindergarten last month, I feel like my chapter with truly little kids has closed. So what do I have to remember the last 12 years of having babies, toddlers, and little kids running around, just the pictures. Oh, and all the art work. If you have good solution for saving the art work, I’m all ears. Back to the images though, it’s what I have left to remember the lost teeth, the favorite dance costumes, the silly smiles, and the sweet toddler snuggles.
Family and maternity pool session.
I Photograph What I know - and What I Love
I think that’s why so many of my clients feel super comfortable with me — because we’re walking similar paths. I know what it’s like to show up to a session a little flustered (and even a lot), hoping your kids are in a good mood, wondering if you remembered the snacks, and crossing your fingers that someone smiles. I’ve been there. I was literally that person at our own family pictures last month!
That’s why I approach every session with patience and empathy. I don’t expect or want perfection — I’m looking for the real stuff. The in-between moments. The way your toddler reaches up to hold your hand. The proud look your child gives you after you fix their hair. The crazy laugh that escapes when someone says something silly. These are the things that matter. These are the memories that last. When you see an image of your kiddo laughing, I want you to be able to hear that laugh when you see that image.
Las Vegas Family & Maternity Outdoor Session
As a mom, I know how fast the days go — and how slow they can sometimes feel. I know what it’s like to scroll your camera roll and realize you’re in so few photos. I know the tug on your heart when you catch a glimpse of your child looking older than they did last week. And I carry all of that with me when I’m behind the camera.
Motherhood didn’t just make me a better photographer — it made me a storyteller. One who sees what matters, who understands what’s at stake, and who’s deeply honored to help you hold on to this season, however messy or magical it may be. I really do take my job personally, and want to give you the absolute best memories to look back on!
Because at the end of the day, these aren’t just pictures. They’re pieces of your legacy. And it’s a privilege to be the one who helps you tell it.
Family pool session.
Let’s Slow it Down - Together
If you’re a mama who’s feeling the whirlwind of life and wants to pause—just for a little while—I’d be so honored to document those everyday special moments for you. Whether it’s an afternoon in your backyard pool, a quiet cuddle on the couch, or the simple joy of your kids being themselves, I’m here to capture the real, unfiltered love that makes your family unique.
Let’s create something together that doesn’t just live on your walls or in your albums, but something that will carry the weight of these memories — the laughter, the chaos, the tenderness — and mean even more to you 10, 20, or 30 years from now. Because these moments deserve to be remembered exactly as they are, now and always.
Family and maternity pool session.
If you’re ready to capture your family’s story, I’d love to hear from you. Reach out anytime to chat about your vision or to book a session. Let’s create memories that will warm your heart for years to come.
Las Vegas family on vacation.
Alyssa Charboneau is a Las Vegas newborn and family lifestyle photographer. As a mom of three, a former elementary teacher and former news reporter, documenting young families is a true dream job! Alyssa is also the owner of The White Space, a natural lights photography studio and small event space in Downtown Las Vegas. The images from this blog post were taken by Alyssa at the Elena S. Blair Mastermind Retreat at the Ace Hotel in Palm Springs.