Photographer Feature: Q&A with Lauren Vanni

Photographer Feature: Lauren Vanni

Hi, I’m Lauren! I’m a family and newborn photographer based in Alexandria, Virginia, and an English language learner with nearly a decade of experience working with students in grades K-3. I’ve been photographing families for several years now, drawn to connection, emotion, and the beauty in everyday moments—whether it’s a quiet newborn snuggle or laughter echoing through a family walk. When I’m not behind the camera or in the classroom, I’m probably out with my husband and two dogs, flipping through a good book, or spending time with the people I love.

Photographer Feature: Lauren Vanni

What’s your favorite thing to photograph?

The connection between a parent and child—especially the small, unposed moments. A toddler gripping their mama’s finger, a newborn nestled into a father’s chest. Those quiet in-between moments are everything to me. I also love photographing maternity. There’s something incredibly beautiful about the anticipation and change during that season—how it invites softness and strength at the same time. Watching someone embrace their growing body and all it holds is always powerful.

What keeps you inspired? (Ideas, practices, including something in your sessions, etc.?)

The wonder children carry, the way they reach for comfort, the way they light up when they feel seen. I’m always chasing the magic in soft light and movement, and I find so much inspiration in nature—fields, coastlines, quiet corners of the world. Even time spent away—walking, reading, being with my own people—helps me come back to this work with a full heart.

Photographer Feature: Lauren Vanni

What’s your proudest photography moment?

Honestly, starting this business. I’m not a natural risk-taker, and putting myself out there felt huge. When I first created an Instagram account for my photography, I didn’t even tell anyone—I just quietly started posting. So much of this journey has been about stepping outside my comfort zone, trying new things, and learning as I go. I’m really proud of myself for showing up, even when it felt scary.What’s your proudest photography moment?

Why did you become a photographer? Tell the story of what brought you here.

I’m a really nostalgic person. The passing of time has always felt especially tender to me—I used to love flipping through old photo albums with my grandma, holding those memories in my hands. I took a photography class in high school and fell in love with the darkroom, the process of rolling film, and the magic of freezing a moment. As a teacher, I see every day how quickly children grow and change, and I wanted to find a way to hold onto those fleeting seasons—not just for myself, but for others too. Getting to preserve these moments for families, knowing they’ll be looked at and passed down just like my grandmother’s photos were to me, is incredibly special.

What would your dream session be?

A relaxed summer evening at the beach with a playful, snuggly family—barefoot in the sand, the sun low in the sky, no rush. I grew up going to the beach almost every weekend, so it’s always felt like home to me. It offers so much space to breathe, play, and just be. That kind of open, natural setting helps families relax and connect in the most beautiful ways—and those are the moments I love to photograph.

What is a place you haven’t shot at yet but would love to?

A wildflower field in full bloom. I love the idea of a playful, heartfelt session surrounded by color and light—somewhere families can run, snuggle, and just enjoy being together in nature.

What is the hardest thing about being a photographer, and what is the best thing?

The hardest part is juggling everything behind the scenes—marketing, editing, emails—all while working full-time as a teacher. The best part? Knowing that the images I deliver will be looked at years from now, bringing someone back to a feeling they didn’t want to forget.

Photographer Feature: Lauren Vanni

Untethered Family Photography Publication | Q&A with Lauren Vanni | Education and encouragement for family and newborn photographers

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Photographer Feature: Lauren Vanni