Family Photos Don't Have to Be Stressful
- Your toddler doesn't have to sit still
- Your kids don't have to smile at the camera
- Your spouse doesn't have to love taking pictures
- True-to-life images that age beautifully
- I'll guide everything so you can simply enjoy being together
more about me
Milwaukee Family Photographer
- Kids are encouraged to play instead of pose
- Sessions feel like an evening adventure, not a chore
- Guidance on locations and outfits.
- Fast communication
- Galleries full of candid moments and classic portraits
- Experience photographing families at every stage
Why Families Choose JB Photography
Hi, I'm Janalee! When I'm not behind the camera, you'll usually find me chasing adventures with my son, Julian. We spend our days exploring local playgrounds, indoor play gyms, scenic bike paths, sandy beaches, and hidden gems all around the Milwaukee area and Lake Country. Watching him discover the world has only deepened my appreciation for preserving the fleeting moments of childhood.
As a family photographer in Milwaukee, WI, I know that the best memories aren't perfectly posed—they're the giggles after a game of tag, the tiny hands reaching for yours, and the spontaneous hugs that happen when no one is told to smile. That's exactly the kind of experience I create for the families I photograph.
Whether we're capturing your family at a favorite Milwaukee park, a Waukesha nature trail, a Brookfield green space, an Oconomowoc beach, or anywhere in southeastern Wisconsin, my goal is to make your session feel relaxed, playful, and genuinely fun. I'll guide you every step of the way so you can focus on what matters most: being together while I preserve the moments you'll want to remember forever.
Meet Your Milwaukee Family
Photographer
family stories from start to finish
Featured Family Galleries
KRAJEWSKI
SCHMOLBACH FAMILY
KEITEL FAMILY
Kohler Andrae State park
Keitel family
Little man's first time at the beach was a huge hit. He absolutely loved playing in the sand, watching the waves, and cuddling with mom and dad. Let's soak up the sun and fun with your loved ones on Lake Michigan's beautiful beaches.
PIKE LAKE STATE PARK
LOERKE family
Coordinated outfits, natural laughter, and the beautiful nature of Pike Lake create images that feel both elegant and genuine. It's the perfect setting to capture the connections, personalities, and moments you'll want to remember for years to come.
menomonee park
neiman family
Menomonee Park offers the perfect backdrop for relaxed, joy-filled family photos. With its scenic lake views, open green spaces, wooded trails, and beautiful natural light, it's an ideal location for capturing genuine connections and authentic moments.
Iron Ridge
schmolbach family
From newborn photos, to Christmas minis, to now; I adore working with this family. Being part of a families journey is one of the best parts of my job.
lisbon community park
krajewski family
This was such a lovely day strolling through the park. We stopped to smell the flowers, play in the grass, and soak up the sunshine.
BIG CEDAR LAKE TRAILS
SWAN family
Big Cedar Lake Trails provides a beautiful natural setting for family photos, with winding paths AND towering trees,.The peaceful surroundings create the perfect atmosphere for genuine smiles, playful moments, and meaningful connections.
richfield historical society
lutz family
Fall family photos are practically an American tradition now. Love the fall colors? Let's get you and your family out playing in the leaves and soaking up the last of the beautiful Wisconsin weather.
The Family Experience
The moments may feel fleeting, but the memories we create together last a lifetime. I always knew family photos were important, but having Julian really put it in perspective for me. Time really does fly by in the blink of an eye. It's easy to get caught up in the busyness of everyday life, but amidst it all, let's carve out precious moments to pause, to cherish, and to capture the beauty of every stage. From the excitement of a growing family, cozy cuddles, crazy toddler, to milestone achievements, I'm here to freeze those fleeting moments in time, ensuring that your life together is beautifully documented and forever remembered.
In the blink of an eye, childhood is gone. Treasure the moments while they last.
Let's start with a consultation to get to know each other and discuss your vision for your family photoshoot.
During this meeting, I'd love to learn more about your family dynamics, personalities, and any special moments or locations that are meaningful to you.
It's also an opportunity for you to ask me any questions you may have about my style, packages, and pricing.
1. Say Hello
2. let's make it official
Once you're ready to move forward, we'll secure your session date by signing a contract and making a deposit.
The contract will outline the details of our agreement, including the date, time, location, and the services included in your chosen package.
This step ensures that both of us are clear on expectations and helps to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone.
3. planning the session
Before the shoot, we'll work together to plan the logistics of the session.
We'll discuss the location for the shoot, whether it's in-studio, outdoors, or at your home, and any props or wardrobe options you'd like to include.
I'll also provide you with tips on how to prepare for the session, including what to wear and how to pose (or not pose) to ensure beautiful and authentic images.
4. session day!
On the day of the session, my goal is to create a relaxed and fun atmosphere where your family can truly be yourselves.
I'll guide you through poses and activities that capture your family's unique personality and connections.
Whether it's candid moments of laughter and play or posed portraits that showcase your bond, I'll ensure that every image reflects the love and joy of your family.
5. your photographs
After the session, I'll carefully select and edit the best images to ensure they meet my high-quality standards.
Once the editing process is complete, I'll provide you with access to a private online gallery where you can view and download your photos.
You'll have the opportunity to share your images with friends and family, as well as order prints or other keepsakes to preserve these precious memories for years to come.
One day, these little hands won't reach for yours anymore. Let's preserve this season exactly as it is.
I'd love to create photographs that bring you back to these moments for years to come.
Family Investment
60
$650
minutes
30
professional editing of all images to ensure consistency, color correction, and enhancement to bring out the best in each photo.
an online gallery where you can easily view, download, and share your photos with friends and family.
personalized attention throughout the entire process, from initial inquiry to delivery of the final products.
Access to client closet and other styling tips
Optional high-quality prints, albums, or photo books as add-ons to preserve and showcase the memories of their special day in tangible form.
one location
one outfit
one location
one outfit
one location
two outfits
$350
minutes
45
all sessions include:
$475
minutes
Janalee is such a talented photographer and a joy to work with!
Our overly tired toddler was not cooperating during our most recent photo session with Janalee. She was easily able to roll with it, and turned our session into a fun “hike” for my toddler. He loved it! I couldn’t believe how amazing our photos turned out! You would never know, based on the photos, that there was an uncooperative child during the session!
So great! Quick shoot with so many great captures of the family. Great for suggesting posing for those of us that don't have that creative mind 😀
I’ve had the pleasure of working with Janalee on multiple occasions. Not only is she bubbly and personable, but she is incredibly thorough and detail oriented as well. Her photography truly expresses the passion that she has for her work and her clients. I did a mother-daughter shoot with her and the quality of her work was simply breathtaking. I highly recommend JB Photography for any of your photography needs.
JB photography is amazing!!! Janalee, the owner, did a couple’s shoot for my husband and I because I wanted to do it. While he was on the fence about it, I was able to convince him, and he has said daily how glad he is that we did these photos. Janalee made us feel so comfortable, made us laugh, and was just very warm and welcoming. It was such a fun and special experience, and she was able to capture the love and happiness we have for each other. If you are on the fence about doing the photoshoot, do it because you will not regret it!! We cannot wait to do another shoot with JB Photography in the future! I would highly recommend this business to anyone!
Words
Kind
I cannot wait to hear from you!
Please fill out the contact form below to get in touch.
inquire
Family session planning guide
A
M
I
L
Y
Notes for Choosing the Perfect Location, Time, Outfits, & More
Planning Your
Family Session
Keep reading for more details on how to prepare for your family session, what to wear, bringing pets, location ideas, and more.
The moments may feel fleeting, but the memories we create together last a lifetime. I always knew family photos were important, but having Julian really put it in perspective for me. Time really does fly by in the blink of an eye. It's easy to get caught up in the busyness of everyday life, but amidst it all, let's carve out precious moments to pause, to cherish, and to capture the beauty of every stage. From the excitement of a growing family, cozy cuddles, crazy toddler, to milestone achievements, I'm here to freeze those fleeting moments in time, ensuring that your life together is beautifully documented and forever remembered.
welcome
planning your Family session
No matter the season, in my experience I have found that timing your family session for when the sun is the least harsh throughout the day—either around two hours before sunset or the first two hours after sunrise—creates the best lighting for photos, which is why it is extremely important to be on time to our session.
the best time to take photos
timing and lighting
My favorite time to begin sessions is a few hours before sunset. Golden hour makes for the dreamiest photos.
For example, moody leaves and foliage in the fall or bright and colorful florals in the spring. Styling outfits and choosing props will become easier after you have decided on a theme. Shoot times will vary from season to season.
Let the Seasons Guide the Theme
Villa Terrace, Lake Park, The Domes, Downtown Cedarburg
Lion's Den Gorge, Seven Bridges, Mauthe Lake, Menomonee Park, Kohler Andrae
sophisticated & timeless
land & water
Glacier Hills County Park, Lisbon Community Park, Retzer Nature Center
the great outdoors
Third Ward, Parking Garage Rooftop, Milwaukee Art Museum
architectural
Port Washington Beach, Atwater Beach, Doctors Park
by the water
locations
southeastern wisconsin
If you have a destination in mind for your session, don't hesitate to let me know, I love traveling! Travel fees may apply depending on the location.
destination family sessions
We can either embrace what mother nature throws at us or reschedule.
This adorable family just embraced the rain that came while we were on the top of a mountain in Asheville.
what if the weather is bad and it rains?
scheduling and weather
We get so excited when our couples want to include their pets in their engagement session! After many pet-friendly sessions, we have a few tips and tricks to share.
Including your pet in your engagement session means we'll need to choose a pet-friendly location, so keep that in mind when you're choosing the theme and location.
We also encourage our couples to bring your pets favorite treats, groom them beforehand if necessary, and give them plenty of exercise prior to our session.
Since your pet likely won't be in every photo, we always begin the session with your pet and then recommend either dropping them off, having a friend either watch over them or take them home for the remaining time of our session.
We love your furry family members.
pets
our tips for looking and feeling your best
outfits and style tips
Instead of putting together matching outfits, think about complimenting each other instead. For example, if one of you is wearing khaki pants and a green shirt, the other could wear a flowy cream-colored dress, and then the child could be a mixture of green and tan . If one of you is wearing a blue floral dress, the other could wear a soft blue button-up shirt and dark navy pants. Stick to 3-5 colors through the family, including the neutral colors.
When choosing outfits, don't try and match—rather compliment each other's outfits with thoughtful color palettes.
style tips for the family
Long, flowy dresses look incredible in photos because of the added movement and texture. I encourage you to opt for a dress or two as opposed to pants, shorts, or jumpsuits. But if dresses aren't your jam, that's ok, I want you to be comfortable! Don't forget about the accessories!
Choose a dress over something casual, you won't regret it!
Outfit tips
Check out our ever growing client closet. These dresses are free to use for your session!
I always recommend that mamas getting your hair and makeup professionally done. It adds a bit of glam to the day and helps you look and feel your best. The camera really does strip away a lot of makeup, so having a bit extra on is always a good idea. If you're in the Hartford area, you can have this done at my studio!
Professional hair and makeup can help you look and feel your best.
hair & makeup
Our favorite shopping resources to look your best during your session.
Check out our ever growing client closet. These dresses are free to use for your session!
shopping Guide
Ever notice how a haircut, a quick manicure, and a bit of grooming can totally level up your vibe? It's like hitting the refresh button on your look. Treat yourself to some self-care and watch how it boosts your confidence. Because, let's be real, sometimes all you need is a little pampering to feel like a million bucks.
A haircut, manicure, and a little grooming goes a long way.
grooming
Balance, Don't Match: Colors and Tones
leave it: Graphics and logos
Avoid: Tennis Shoes, Baseball Hats, Sunglasses
leave it: Spray Tans
Avoid: Bright Colors (Red, Orange, Neons)
LEAVE IT: Busy PATTERNS
final style notes: things to avoid and outfit suggestions
posing
You won't be stiffly posed or nervously standing in an uncomfortable position long enough to wonder what your hands are meant to do. I'm sure you've had enough of that with school photos. Expect to be reminded of the power and beauty of your family by laughing until it hurts and running around like weirdos. I will never try to change you into something you aren't; instead, I will give you the freedom to be the fullest version of yourself because I believe that's where beautiful imagery emerges. This isn’t a photoshoot for Vogue, you’re much more interesting than that.
You'll leave with tons of photographs that will capture your love for each other. Believe me when I say you're going to look amazing!
I make every effort to ensure that your photos do not appear “posed". Instead, I'll point you in the right direction and tell you what to do, and then it'll be up to you to make it your own. I'm not going to instruct you exactly where to put your hands or how to stand. My instructions are often vague, allowing you to be yourself! Plus, I don't think I need to teach you how to be a family; you're already pros!
The best tip I can give you is to NEVER. STOP. MOVING. Seriously, the more movement you do, the more photos you will get. You'll get one shot from a pose if I give you a direction and you stand still. But if you follow my advice and move around, you'll get a lot more variety. This type of photography is ideal for children because they are often unaware that they are being photographed! Feel free to deviate from any of my instructions; kisses, hugs, and tickles are all welcome at any moment!
We're going to have a lot of fun. I'll be making a fool of myself in the hopes of making your kids laugh, and I fully anticipate them to be silly as well. I want to encourage as much individuality as possible, and I recommend that you do the same.
Be true to yourself! Remember, these are photos of you, so don't strive to look like that family photo you saw on Pinterest. We'll try a few different shots, and it's fine if not all of them work out. The ones that do come out will be the most authentic and beautiful representations of you and your family!
Online Gallery Delivered
four weeks
when to expect your Family photos
Janalee is such a talented photographer and a joy to work with!
Our overly tired toddler was not cooperating during our most recent photo session with Janalee. She was easily able to roll with it, and turned our session into a fun “hike” for my toddler. He loved it! I couldn’t believe how amazing our photos turned out! You would never know, based on the photos, that there was an uncooperative child during the session!
kind words
this was an incredible experience
-comfortable, flat shoes for in between photos
-outfits, shoes, and accessories
-makeup for any touch-ups
-Water and snacks
-a warm layer in case it gets chilly
✓ Schedule date, location, and time
✓ Read guide for style tips and suggestions
✓ Schedule makeup and hair appointments
✓ plan and purchase your outfits
✓ Get a manicure and pedicure
✓ gather ANY PROPS YOU WOULD LIKE TO INCORPORATE
✓ bring a packed bag with:
checklist
Family Session
thank you
I can't wait for your session
