The term ‘family photos’ calls to mind images of matching outfits, unnatural poses, and forced smiles. That’s why Leigh Ann Remke Photography’s motherhood sessions are a breath of fresh air. In addition to being visually striking, they possess a raw, stripped-down quality that is refreshingly authentic. Perhaps that’s because this is Remke’s talent as a photographer. As a mother of three, she’s acutely attuned to what her clients want – and need – in a family photo session. Remke explains, “I feel like a lot of people feel like they have to come to these sessions, and they have to perform. But how do we make sure that we make them feel comfortable and that they have fun, and that they make this a memorable experience? It’s more than just a picture on a shelf. I want to help these families create memories together.” And so, Remke doesn’t prod her clients into forced positions and fake expressions. Knowing their mercurial nature, she instead allows the children to take the lead, which lets both their personality and the connection they have with their mothers emanate through the lens. The result of which is both an indelible family memory, and photos that reflect the true and individualized nature of a mother’s connection with her children. And if Remke’s ability to do this seems otherworldly, perhaps that’s because she felt she truly was called to do this – leaving behind a promising corporate career to do so. “I knew that my work would outlast me and them and it would extend on for generations,” she says. Gazing at her motherhood series and larger body of work, it’s hard to argue with that. Much like a good writer writes what they know, Remke photographs a mother’s love with the skill only a loving mother could.
Article by Courtney Stockton
Photography by Leigh Ann Remke Photography
Originally published in Mount Juliet City Lifestyle
