Mom and Me Photography Sessions in Gilbert, Arizona – Capturing Love That Lasts

There is nothing more special than the bond between a mom and her children. It's full of giggles snuggles, and earnest moments of wishing we could stay in this moment forever, with our children just this age, just as they are. At Nakupenda Photography, I offer Mom and Me sessions in Gilbert, Arizona that help you hold onto those memories through beautiful, heartfelt photographs.

a mother and child are beautifully captured in this warm family portrait by Nakupenda Photography, a child and family photographer in Gilbert, Arizona.

I love any time I can create special moments for moms that are warm, joyful and full of love and color. When I saw the moody greenhouse I knew that it was the perfect setting for this year’s mom and me sessions. These sessions are so special to me, in every single session I strive to capture moments and images that would make me proud as a mom if it were me in the photos. I was thrilled with how all of the sessions went this year. I kept them short and sweet, upbeat and fun. Just long enough to capture a large variety of images of the littlest kids, but not so long they grew bored or lost interest.

If you’re thinking about booking a session with your kids, here are some of my favorite easy tips to help reduce the stress around session time.

a mother and child are beautifully captured in this warm family portrait by Nakupenda Photography, a child and family photographer in Gilbert, Arizona.
a mother and child are beautifully captured in this warm family portrait by Nakupenda Photography, a child and family photographer in Gilbert, Arizona.

Tips for a Great Mom and Me Session with Your Kids

If you're preparing for a Mom and Me photo session in Gilbert, here are a few easy tips to help everything go smoothly:

1. Dress Simply and Comfortably

Choose soft, neutral colors or outfits that match your family’s personality. I recommend picking session themes that also fit your family well! Make sure you are able to bend down to your children, or lift them up and snuggle with them without your outfit moving out of place. Comfort is key—when you feel good, it shows in your photos.

a mother and child are beautifully captured in this warm family portrait by Nakupenda Photography, a child and family photographer in Gilbert, Arizona.

2. Bring a Favorite Toy or Blanket

Having something familiar helps kids relax and have fun. A stuffed animal or special blanket adds comfort and meaning to your pictures. If you don’t like the look of these items for your children, simply wooden toys are also great for fidget items for small children at a session while blending into the look of the portraits.

a mother and child are beautifully captured in this warm family portrait by Nakupenda Photography, a child and family photographer in Gilbert, Arizona.

3. Talk to Your Kids Beforehand

Let them know they’re going to spend time taking fun pictures with you! Give them an idea of how long it will last as well so they know what the expectations are. I also find having a fun incentive to look forward to after the session helps kids stay focused and excited about the session. When children know what to expect, they feel more at ease.

4. Focus on Fun, Not Posing

a mother and child are beautifully captured in this warm family portrait by Nakupenda Photography, a child and family photographer in Gilbert, Arizona.
a mother and child are beautifully captured in this warm family portrait by Nakupenda Photography, a child and family photographer in Gilbert, Arizona.

At Nakupenda Photography, we believe in capturing real smiles and genuine connection. The best photos happen when you're just being yourselves. Your kids will naturally smile and look at me if they feel relaxed and comfortable.

FINALLY, Choose a Photographer in Gilbert Who’s Great with Kids

When looking for a child and family photographer in Gilbert, AZ, it’s important to find someone who connects well with children. Your photographer should know how to make kids laugh, feel safe, and enjoy the experience.

At Nakupenda Photography, we specialize in working with families and children. We know how to turn your photo session into a joyful experience full of laughter and love. Our goal is to make your session feel like a fun family outing not just a photo shoot.

Last Thoughts: Include Grandma Too!

Four generations of women and children are beautifully captured in this warm family portrait by Nakupenda Photography, a child and family photographer in Gilbert, Arizona.
Four generations of women and children are beautifully captured in this warm family portrait by Nakupenda Photography, a child and family photographer in Gilbert, Arizona.

Some of my most favorite and treasured images come from photographing multiple generations. Including grandma in your Mom and Me session creates lasting memories and honors the love passed down through your family. A photo of grandma, mom, and child together is a timeless keepsake you’ll treasure for years. + if your kids are anything like mine, their goofy personalities come out even more with grandma around.

Book Your Mom and Me Session in Gilbert, Arizona Today

If you’re in the Gilbert, Chandler, or Mesa area and looking for a caring, creative photographer who captures true connection, we would love to work with you. Be sure to keep an eye on upcoming events for my fall family sessions in this location coming the last weekend of September 2025

Let’s create something beautiful together—something your family can hold onto forever.

💛

Four generations of women and children are beautifully captured in this warm family portrait by Nakupenda Photography, a child and family photographer in Gilbert, Arizona.