
The first time I worked with this family, they were local to me in Charlottesville. But when they reached out to see if I would make the drive for an urban in-home session at their new place in Baltimore, I couldn’t resist. They are so much fun and I knew that photographing them in their new home would be full of playful surprises.
This urban in-home session in downtown Baltimore started in their crazy-cool basement playroom. Through our time together, we captured all kinds of bits and pieces of their life, including the struggle of getting shoes on kids.
I love how Narrative sessions like this one allow us to sink into our time together and explore lots of variation in activity. Since this crew often walks down to Patterson Park, we decided to take the dog for a walk and include that little family favorite spot in their session. And since the kids’ favorite past-time at the moment is simply getting messy and doing science experiments in the backyard, we didn’t shy away from that reality.
Who would have though that the most fun way to end family photos would be making oobleck?!
I was so obsessed with the honesty wrapped up in this session the beautiful range of love and leisure.




















Whether you’re looking for family photos at home in Charlottesville, Baltimore, or elsewhere, I’d love to witness your beautiful, messy, loving ways. These photos are meant to fuel your gratitude for the present and continue giving that feeling decades down the road.
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I’m obsessed with stories of family, creativity, and simple joys. A nostalgia nerd, writer, wife, and mom of 3, I believe life’s most fun when you’re dreaming big and savoring small.
Education and articles for family photographers
FAQ's and guidance for stress-free family and newborn sessions
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Highlighted family and newborn photography sessions
@2026 copyrighted | Leah O'COnnell
Based in Charlottesville, VA
leah@leahoconnell.com