holding onto the moments
that feel like home
More than portraits
your people, your story
Sessions for every stage of family | from "just us" to full reunions.
we are Xav and Em
Hey there! He's Xav and I'm Em!
Xav is the steady, practical one. I’m the sentimental dreamer. After a decade photographing weddings together, our own growing family led us to slow down and focus on what feels most life giving in this season.
These days, I’m behind the camera capturing families and extended families across mid Michigan, while Xav supports this work behind the scenes.
Together, we create space for families to be fully themselves and for moments that feel like home to be remembered.
more about us »
hello
the extended family experience
Your whole crew, in one beautiful frame
These sessions are for the moments that feel rare—when everyone is finally together in the same place. Cousins chasing each other through the grass, grandparents soaking up the joy, siblings catching up between photos. Whether you're marking a milestone or just want to preserve the magic of having all your people nearby, extended family sessions are designed to honor your family’s story across generations.
I’ll capture the must-have portraits and the sweet in-between moments: big group photos, smaller family units, grandparent hugs, cousin chaos, and everything in between.
"These will be well loved and cherished for many years to come - thank you!!"
the family portrait experience
families | newborns | Maternity
I love capturing:
little touches
connections and emotions that happen naturally
giggles, smiles, and belly laughs
tickles and twirls
wrestling and dancing
how your kids look at you
babies don't keep... but your memories will
"legit bawling. I favorited all of them. thank you thank you thank you *virtual hug*"
You captured me so well! I never thought I was photogenic. Thanks for making me look fabulous!
-kellie
I grew up deeply loved by my grandmother—her hands, her voice, her stories are stitched into so many of my most cherished memories. Now, as I watch my own children with my mom, I’m constantly struck by that same quiet magic. It’s a bond that moves at a slower pace, full of gentleness and wonder.
That’s why grandparents are always welcome—and always included—for free in every session I offer, even standard family sessions. Whether they’re holding hands with a toddler, sneaking cookies behind your back, or just quietly watching it all unfold from the porch swing, these relationships deserve to be documented too.
Because someday, those photos won’t just be pictures. They’ll be a connection back to the people who shaped us all.
why grandparents are always included
