Three children lie together on the floor laughing joyfully against a dark background with teal and brown accents.

Seattle and South Sound

Real Life Family Photographer


People gather in a kitchen as adults help children with breakfast preparations at the counter during a casual morning moment.

West Seattle +

the Pacific Northwest's

Documentary Family Photographer

Family relaxing together on hardwood floor with baby crawling and holding green toy in modern living room.
Seattle's #1


In Home Family Photographer

Real Life Family Photography
Two people laugh while baking together in a kitchen with mixing bowls and ingredients on the counter.

Let’s be honest—family photos can feel stressful. You're wrangling outfits, hoping the kids cooperate, and bracing yourself for the inevitable meltdown.


But here’s the good news: it doesn’t have to be that way.


At Sound Roots Photography, we do things differently.

I’m a former kindergarten teacher who knows exactly how to bring out the best in your kids—without bribes, fake smiles, or awkward poses. I come into your home or favorite space and follow your family’s natural rhythm, gently guiding when needed, and giving space for real moments to unfold.


We’ll preserve the laughter, the mess, the cuddles, and the chaos—the truth of your family, exactly as you are. And yes, even Dad will say, “That was actually really fun!”


This isn’t about perfect photos. It’s about preserving the heart of your family story—so years from now, you’ll remember not just how it looked, but how it felt.


Want to see more? View Portfolio here
A joyful family moment shared around a table in a cozy home kitchen with natural light coming through the window.

Because the best moments don’t happen when you’re all saying “cheese.”

A parent and child sit reading children's books together in a cozy armchair near white shelves filled with colorful books.
A group of young friends walk together on a park trail with a soccer ball on an overcast autumn day.
Slow time now and schedule here
People sitting together on a soccer field in front of a goal post surrounded by tall pine trees against a blue sky.
Group of people sitting on floor around coffee table laughing and playing games together in casual setting.
A joyful moment in a dark kitchen as two people laugh while baking and mixing ingredients together.
Family playing together in a backyard with swings, trees and a small white shed.
Students relax and study in a dorm room with wooden bunk beds, textbooks, and natural lighting through windows.
Two people share a joyful cooking moment in the kitchen while preparing food together in a warm domestic setting.
A man and young boy sit at a table working together on an activity with colorful pieces spread out in front of them.
A family shares a cozy moment in their living room as acoustic guitar music fills the space during a relaxing afternoon.
Parent and baby seated at dining table with toddler positioned in a blue highchair during mealtime.
Joyful playtime scene on a couch with a potted fiddle leaf fig plant in the background.
Toddler in overalls and long sleeves standing at elevated metal feeding bowls on a wooden surface.
Garden hose and water bowl on wooden deck with crumpled silver ball in sunlight.
Three dogs playing in a backyard with people gathering on an autumn afternoon.
A small child smiles in a playroom with a toy unicorn while other people relax in the background.
Adult and child use a pencil to mark height measurements on a wall in their home together.
Family sitting together on floor of living room with smiling baby holding a toy while parents watch adoringly.
Two people enjoy playing a board game together at a wooden dining table in a warmly-lit home interior.
A young child smiles in a playroom while a brown dog interacts with people surrounded by colorful toys and blocks.
A playful scene in a modern living room with casual attire and indoor fun.
Close up portrait of a young smiling child with brown hair and natural gap teeth in front of blurred backdrop.
Baby pushes wooden walker toy across hardwood floor while being supported from behind in sunlit living room.
Two people baking together in a kitchen, adding ingredients to a stand mixer while preparing dough or batter.
Three people dance and move playfully in a backyard garden area with mulch and trees on an autumn day.
Cozy unmade bed with white linens and wooden headboard featuring art prints of landscapes hanging on wall above.
A family gathers around a table working on arts and crafts projects together in their home.
A family sits together at a wooden table playing cards and enjoying beverages while sharing laughs.
Two blonde women sharing a croissant while sitting at an outdoor cafe counter.
Family plays with colorful balloons in modern kitchen with hardwood floors and dark cabinets.
Four people sitting around a wooden table having a casual conversation in an office or meeting space.
A heartwarming moment of shared laughter and joy during a casual outdoor conversation on wooden steps.
Two people jumping and playing together on a backyard trampoline surrounded by trees and wooden fencing.

Feel like your house is not "photo-ready?


It doesn’t have to be. Real life happens in lived-in spaces, and that’s what makes your story worth remembering.


These aren’t just photos.


They’re real, honest memories of what life feels like right now—chaotic, connected, and completely yours.

Check out your investment options

A large group poses together in coordinated blue and neutral outfits against a backdrop of tall evergreen trees.
A happy family of three laugh together as they embrace and share a candid moment indoors.

Get Out of the Grey

Sounds So Sweet

Entire gallery of digital images (80+ images)

*Required for extended family sessions

Includes 20 digital images to choose from a gallery of 60+ images


$769

$499

A happy group lounges together on a couch while playing and laughing during a relaxed moment at home.

Mountains to Sound

Includes 40 digital images to choose from a gallery of 60+ images


$619

All Packages Include:
  • 45-90 minutes depending on the flow and need of your family
  • $50 print credit to print your favorite images
  • Session planning questionnaire and/or phone call
  • Location and activity advice
  • Styling advice (if desired)
  • Access to the online print shop directly from your gallery

5% of monthly income goes directly back to our community to a nonprofit nominated by clients.

A couple shares a candid moment of laughter while standing together in a lush green forest setting.
Testimonial

“Ali is a wonderful family photographer. She is so pleasant to work with and is the BEST with kids - my toddler loves her, which makes our photo session such a nice experience. We've used her for a newborn session, as well as a motherhood in the wild session for myself and my girls. She has a unique, down to earth, artistic style to her photos. Additionally, she is very affordable and I hope to continue to have her document my kids as they grow.“


Alissa
West Seattle
Three children sit together on a playground slide with green metal equipment on a sunny day.
Testimonial

"I recommend working with Ali. She was easygoing and fun during our session. The photos were exactly what we were hoping for! The way she interacted with my girls during the session was great!"


Sarah
Seattle
A group sits together reading a book and laughing while enjoying quality time in a playroom with a pink tent.
Testimonial

“The idea of a photo shoot at home was a lot less stressful than getting the whole family to a location. The photos are beautiful, it was easy, totally worth it and I’m glad it did it.”


Steph
West Seattle
Family relaxing together on a cozy rug in a nursery room with white walls and hanging clothes.
Testimonial

"While i don't enjoy having pictures of myself taken, this was such an easy, painless process that resulted in a lot of fun and great memories to hold onto. Ali made us all feel so comfortable and this process really felt so organic and authentic to what we actually do every day as a family. She provided gentle guidance and suggestions when needed, but for the most part, allowed us to do our thing. Her energy is fun, cheerful, and calming-all very necessary and so appreciated!"


Stella
Viewridge Seattle

What to Expect

1. Book Your Session

Choose your date and time—need ideas or a pep talk? Just reach out through the contact form. A 50% deposit confirms your spot!

2. Get Prepped

You'll get a quick questionnaire, session prep guide, and style tips straight to your inbox. Everything you need to feel ready.

3. Session Day

Time to relax and enjoy! I’ll guide you every step of the way while you soak up time with your people in front of the camera.

4. Gallery + Final Delivery

Your proof gallery lands in 2–3 weeks—grab a coffee or a glass of wine and soak it all in. Choose your favorites, finalize your order, and I’ll send over your final edited images. Print orders take 2–4 weeks to arrive.

On the Blog

 

FAQ

 

What if my children don't cooperate?

Children can be so unpredictable. I find moments like these all a part of the process. It is actually in many of these moments that we can see our true connections, love, and emotions shine through. Do what you might usually do and embrace the beauty of the situation. Maybe we let a squirmy child jump it out or run around with a quick game of tag. Maybe you spend time feeding or shushing and rocking your newborn. It's all a part of the story and beauty in this phase of life and deserves to be documented too.

Can our pet participate?

Absolutely! Whether your pet joins for a few key photos at the beginning or the end, or you would like them to be present during the whole session is really up to you. Pets are family!

If you have a pet and don't feel like bringing them for photos, that's ok too!

Do you photograph extended families?

Absolutely! Cousins, grandparents, Aunts and Uncles are some of the most special relationships. Many families gift a session to a loved one for special occasions. I require pre-purchase of the Get Out of the Grey package, which includes all 80+ images for these sessions.

How long will the session last?

Family sessions will last between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours give or take. That is really all we need in order to accurately capture your connection, emotions, and phase of life now.

What happens if the weather is unfavorable on the day of our session?

If the weather doesn't cooperate on the day of an outdoor shoot, we can discuss alternatives such as rescheduling the session or finding an indoor location. We want to ensure the best possible outcome for your photos, and we're flexible in adapting to unforeseen circumstances. Being Seattle though, sessions typically go on in mist or shine. Downpours are usually rescheduled. Please reschedule if anyone shows any symptoms of sickness. I will do the same for you.

When will I see my photos?

Following your session and once full payment has been received, images will be presented to you in a password protected, online proof gallery a few days afterward. Once you make your final selections and paid for any additional images, final edits will be returned within 2-3 weeks. A zip drive for download will then be sent. Feel free to share your images at this point!

How many photos do I get?

Depending on which investment option you choose, you will receive between 20 images (see Sounds So Sweet) to a full gallery of over 80 images (see Get Out of the Grey) presented in an online gallery for you to download. Additional images and package upgrades are also available for purchase

What should I bring to my session?

For outdoor sessions: A nice blanket. If there are any special symbolic accessories that you'd like to incorporate into a family or maternity session, (i.e.: favorite sports team paraphernalia, the ultrasound photo) feel free to bring along.

For in home sessions: Feel free to tidy up, yet not too much as you want to reflect your house in this phase of life. Have a few activities you enjoy doing at home at the ready (i.e.: toy train set, baking favorite cookies, favorite books, a fun playlist). Open up shades and curtains to enhance natural light in your home.

What should we wear?

You don't need to be super matchy matchy, yet somewhat coordinated outfits in mostly neutral tones work great. Adding a pop or two of bold colors enhance your style. If the weather is misty, please feel free to add raincoats, boots, & an umbrella. All of my clients currently receive access to a free online styling tool upon booking! See @style_and_select on IG for more info.

When is Payment required?

A retainer of 50% is required to secure your date. Remainder is due on the day of the session.

Will my images be on social media?

I love sharing the images I create. Sharing helps my small business a TON. And if for any reason, your family would rather opt out, please let me know and your wish is my command!

Do you travel outside of West Seattle?

Yes! I travel to any Seattle and Burien neighborhood. I am more than happy to travel further within King County, for a $50 travel fee.

When should I book my session?

If you need a weekend, I am typically booked 1-2 months in advance, so get in touch ASAP for availability. If a weekday works for you, usually 2-4 weeks in advance is great. I occasionally get cancellations or reschedules, so it's always worth checking!

Where can we do the session?

I absolutely love documenting families in places that are special to them...especially in the comfort of their home. If you are looking for a gorgeous sunset location, then I'd be happy to chat about potential King County locations.

When do you do sessions?

I am all about balancing my family life with client work. I therefore, do sessions every other weekend. Outdoor sessions typically begin an hour before sunset. In home sessions occur between the hours of 10am and 2pm for optimal light.

Can I have a discount?

My return clients receive a $50 discount for a future session. If my sessions aren't within your current budget, please keep an eye out for one of my mini sessions.

Don’t Wait for Things to Slow Down.


This messy, beautiful life you’re in the middle of?

It is the good part.


The sleepy snuggles, the wild giggles, the sticky fingers and spontaneous dance parties — they’re gone faster than you think. And no one ever looks back and wishes they’d waited until their house was cleaner or the kids sat still.


Let’s document the truth of it — the magic of your right-now — so you can revisit it long after little voices grow quiet and routines shift.


Ready to make time stand still, just for a moment?


There is no such thing as a perfect parent. So just be a real one.

-Sue Atkins