Fall Wardrobe Guide 2025 | Lancaster PA Photographer | Angie Englerth Photography

What to Wear for Fall Family Photos: Your Ultimate Wardrobe Guide

Choosing outfits for family photos can feel overwhelming. especially when you're trying to coordinate multiple people, work with the season, and make sure everyone still feels like themselves. But here's the truth: your wardrobe doesn't have to be perfect to be beautiful. What matters most is that it feels like you.

This guide is here to take the stress out of getting dressed. Whether you're drawn to cozy knits, earthy tones, or soft layers with a touch of elegance, I've pulled together eight curated wardrobe groupings to inspire you. These combinations are designed to photograph beautifully, feel comfortable, and help your family shine.

From relaxed and casual to polished and refined, you’ll find outfit ideas that work with the fall landscape and let your love for each other take center stage. So take a deep breath, scroll through, and imagine your people wrapped in warmth, laughter, and style that feels just right.

All Spruced Up
Cozy knits, deep greens, and timeless denim come together for a look that’s effortlessly festive and perfectly polished. Classic, comfy, and ready for fall family magic.

Green Dress | Mens Blue Top | Mens Jeans | Girls Green Sweater | Girls Jeans | Boys Henley Top | Boys Jeans

Amber Moments
Rich golden tones, soft neutrals, and cozy textures blend together like autumn sunlight…warm, glowing, and made for memories that last.

Girls Velvet Dress | Womens Velvet Dress | Mens Textured Top | Mens Khaki Pants | Boys Button Up Shirt | Boys Jeans

Blush & Blue Crew

A dreamy mix of soft pinks, classic blues, and cozy knits—this look is equal parts sweet and timeless, perfect for capturing love in every frame.

Womens Sweater Dress | Girls Pink Dress | Boys Blue Sweater | Boys Jeans | Mens Sweater | Mens Jeans

Chic Meets Snug

Where stylish silhouettes meet cozy textures…this look blends rich tones and laid-back layers for a vibe that’s effortlessly polished and perfectly snuggly.

Mens Textured Top | Mens Jeans | Womens Sweater Dress | Girls Green Set | Boys Button Up Top | Boys Jeans

Golden Leaves & Good Jeans

Classic denim, rich autumn tones, and cozy knits come together for a laid-back look that feels like fall…crunchy leaves, cool air, and big family energy.

Womens Sweater | Womens Jeans | Boys Sweater Set | Girls Dress | Boys Henley Top | Boys Jeans | Mens Textured Top | Mens Jeans

Sage & Sand

Soft greens, warm tans, and natural textures create a calm, organic look that feels grounded, effortless, and beautifully timeless for any season.

Womens Dress | Girls Dress | Mens Top | Mens Jeans | Boys Plaid Set

Harvest Crew

Cozy textures, rich autumn tones, and laid-back layers define the Harvest Crew. Think rust, mustard, denim, and cream…perfectly coordinated for a relaxed yet timeless fall family look.

Womens Sweater | Womens Jeans | Boys Set | Girls Set | Mens Sweater Top | Mens Jeans

Velvet Leaves & Cozy Sleeves

A perfect blend of elegance and warmth…this look pairs luxurious velvets and rich autumn tones with soft knits and layered textures. Ideal for families who want to feel comfy while looking effortlessly polished.

Womens Dress | Girls Dress | Mens Top | Mens Pants | Boys Plaid Top | Boys Jeans

No matter which style speaks to you, the most important thing is that your family feels comfortable, connected, and confident. These moments we’re capturing? They’re fleeting…but the photos will last a lifetime. So take the guesswork out of getting dressed, choose a look you love, and let me take care of the rest.

If you haven’t booked your fall session yet, don’t wait…spots are limited and filling fast! Click here to reserve your session or send me a message to get started. I can’t wait to photograph your crew this season!

Please note: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you choose to purchase through them at no extra cost to you. Thank you so much for supporting my work in this way!

The Real Moments Are the Ones You’ll Miss Most | Lancaster PA Photographer | Angie Englerth Photography

The Real Moments Are the Ones You’ll Miss Most

As a photographer, I’ve learned something over and over again: the pictures families love the most are rarely the ones where everyone is perfectly posed, smiling in sync, and sitting still. They're the ones filled with movement, laughter, connection and a little bit of chaos.

It's the way your toddler reaches for you with sticky hands. The glance you share with your spouse when the baby lets out that belly laugh. The way your child’s hair catches the sunlight as they run barefoot through the grass.

These are the moments that matter.

And yet, they’re the moments so many families try to “get through” on picture day. We come into sessions with hopes for perfection…coordinated outfits, cheerful moods, calm weather, no meltdowns. I get it. I’ve been there, too.

But can I tell you a secret?

The best photos happen in between the plan. When your youngest decides to flop down in the middle of a field, or your oldest grabs your hand unexpectedly. When someone’s giggling too hard to hold still, or your baby just won’t stop clinging to your hip. That’s not failure. That’s family.

And it’s beautiful.

In fact, some of my favorite images ever, mine and my clients’, are the ones where something “went wrong” in the best possible way. The wind blew a little too hard. A toddler yelled something hilarious. Someone tripped into a pile of leaves and we all laughed so hard we cried.

These are the photos you’ll come back to years from now and say, “Remember when…?”
These are the photos that tell your story.

So if you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to book photos…when the kids are a little older, when you lose that baby weight, when life slows down…please know this: there is no perfect time.

But there is right now.

Let’s capture the real stuff. The good stuff. The stuff you’ll miss.

Ready when you are.

If you're craving a session that feels relaxed, honest, and joyful…even with the chaos, I’m here for it. Let’s make some magic out of the mess together. Reach out anytime to book your session.

Before the Leaves Fall | Lancaster PA Family Photographer | Angie Englerth

Before the Leaves Fall

Every year, I swear I won’t let fall pass me by.
But somehow, it always sneaks past faster than I planned.

One minute we’re buying school supplies.
The next, the air is cooler, the leaves are turning, and apple cider is in every grocery cart.

It’s cozy. It’s busy. It’s beautiful.
And it never lasts long enough.

That’s part of why I open fall mini session booking early.

Because these sessions tend to fill quickly.
Because the golden light in fall is magic.
Because your kids are growing fast.
And because you deserve to be in the photos too, not just the one taking them.

If you wait too long, you know what happens:
The calendar fills. The weekends disappear.
And before you know it, you're pulling out Christmas jammies and wishing you’d booked that session after all.

So if you’ve been thinking about it, this is your sign.

Pick the sweaters. Imagine the crunch of leaves.
Picture the laughter, the snuggles, and the little moments you’ll want to remember forever.

Fall doesn’t last, but the photos will.

Let’s make some magic before the leaves fall.

Fall sessions and Fall Family Minis are limited and tend to fill quickly. If you’re looking for a Lancaster family photographer, now’s the time to book!

🍂 Grab your spot here.

What to Wear for Family Photos: Timeless Outfit Ideas That Always Work | Lancaster PA Family Photographer | Angie Englerth Photography

What to Wear for Family Photos: Timeless Outfit Ideas That Always Work

Planning a family photo session is exciting, but deciding what to wear can sometimes feel overwhelming. You want everyone to look coordinated, comfortable, and most importantly, like themselves; all while creating beautiful, timeless images you’ll cherish for years.

As a Lancaster PA family photographer and a mom of four myself, I’ve seen what works and what doesn’t when it comes to outfits. Here are my top tips to help you dress your family for photos that will stand the test of time.

Style Tips for Timeless Family Photos

1. Keep It Classic, Not Trendy

Avoid overly trendy clothes or flashy logos. Instead, choose classic pieces that won’t look dated in a few years. Think simple patterns like stripes or small florals, and timeless wardrobe staples such as button-down shirts, cardigans, and well-fitting jeans or chinos.

2. Coordinate, Don’t Match

Matching outfits can sometimes look too “uniform.” Instead, aim for a coordinated color palette with complementary shades and textures. This creates visual harmony while allowing each family member’s personality to shine.

3. Prioritize Comfort

If kids (or adults!) aren’t comfortable, it will show in the photos. Choose clothes that fit well and allow freedom of movement because natural smiles come easiest when everyone feels good.

4. Add Layers and Accessories

Layering with scarves, sweaters, or jackets adds depth to photos. Simple accessories like hats, belts, or delicate jewelry can enhance your look without overwhelming it.

Seasonal Color Palettes That Always Work

Picking the right colors for your family photos is key to achieving that timeless, cohesive look. Here are some tried-and-true palettes for each season:

Spring

Soft pastels like blush pink, sage green, light blue, and creamy neutrals feel fresh and light. Linen fabrics and flowy dresses fit perfectly with spring’s gentle vibe.

Summer

Bright but soft colors work well. Think coral, turquoise, sunny yellow, and crisp white. Light cottons and breathable fabrics keep everyone comfortable in the heat.

Fall

Warm earthy tones make for cozy, inviting photos. Consider rust, mustard, olive green, burgundy, and deep navy. Layering with sweaters and scarves is a plus!

Winter

Rich jewel tones like emerald green, deep plum, navy, and cranberry stand out beautifully against winter’s cooler backdrop. Velvet, wool, and knits add texture and warmth.

Final Thoughts

Remember, your family photos are about capturing your unique connection and joy. When you feel comfortable and coordinated, it shows in every smile and glance. Keep these timeless outfit ideas and seasonal palettes in mind to create photos you’ll treasure forever.

If you have questions or want personalized outfit advice, don’t hesitate to reach out! I’m here to help!

Bonus: Free Family Photo Outfit Planner

To make choosing your outfits even easier, I created a free downloadable Family Photo Outfit Planner packed with color palettes, outfit examples, and a checklist to plan each family member’s look. It’s a handy tool to ensure everyone feels confident and picture-ready!

Download your free Family Photo Outfit Planner here!

The Secret to Getting Natural Smiles in Photos | Lancaster PA Family Photographer | Angie Englerth

The Secret to Getting Natural Smiles in Photos

(Even with Toddlers)

If you've ever walked away from a photo session wondering, “Did we get anything good?”
You are so not alone.

As a Lancaster PA family photographer (and a mom of four), I’ve been on both sides of the camera with toddlers who would rather do literally anything else.

But here’s the truth: natural smiles…the real, belly-laugh kind…are totally possible. And no, it doesn’t have to require bribery or perfectly behaved kids. It just takes a little connection, some silly questions, and a whole lot of play.

It Starts With Banter (The Sillier, the Better)

Want to know my favorite question to ask during a session?

→ “Who has the stinkiest feet in your house?”

It never fails. Someone always shouts “Dad!” and the giggles just roll from there.

As a family photographer in Lancaster PA, I love using humor and conversation to bring out kids’ true personalities. We chat about favorite pizza toppings, pretend birds are landing on my head mid-photo, and even see who can make the best fart noise (with their mouth, of course).

It’s not about making them behave. It’s about making them laugh.
When they’re laughing, they’re relaxed. And when they’re relaxed? We get the magic.

Play Over Posing

I guide families into simple, natural moments.

Tickles. Races. Squeezes so tight they spill into laughter.

Toddlers especially thrive when we lean into what they’re already doing: running, exploring, being silly. I’ll follow their lead and capture the in-between magic.

If you’ve been searching for a Lancaster PA family photographer who can roll with the chaos and still deliver timeless, heartfelt images, I might just be your girl.

Your Energy Sets the Tone

Here’s a secret: kids take their cues from you.

If you're tense or worried about how they’re acting, they feel it.
But if you lean in and just enjoy them for who they are, you’ll be amazed what we can create together.

Trust me with the chaos. I’ve got four kids, and I know how to find beauty in the messy moments.

The Best Smiles Are Never Forced

Some of my favorite shots are the ones that happen in between, the ones you didn’t plan for.

A little giggle at my camera noises.
A glance up at mom during a quiet moment.
A surprised laugh when I pretend to trip over a pinecone.

Real smiles come when we’re not trying so hard.
That’s where the heart is.

Let’s Capture the Real Stuff

If you’re looking for a Lancaster PA family photographer who knows how to turn chaos into keepsakes and bring out the best in even the busiest little ones, I’d love to work with you.

📸 Click here to see session details and availability!

3 Tips for Gorgeous Summer Family Photos | Angie Englerth Photography

3 Tips for Gorgeous Summer Family Photos

Summer is a great time for family photos…longer days, glowing sunsets, and everyone’s in a more relaxed, playful mood. Whether you’re planning a session on the beach, in a grassy field, or in your own backyard, these three simple tips will help your family look and feel amazing in your photos.

1. Choose Light, Airy Clothing

Summer light is soft and golden. Your outfits should match that vibe! Think light colors, soft neutrals, and pastels like blush, ivory, sky blue, or sage green. These tones photograph beautifully and keep the focus on your faces and connection, not busy patterns.

Style tip: Avoid logos and neon colors (they reflect weirdly in sunlight). Linen, cotton, and other breathable fabrics are perfect for keeping cool and comfortable.

2. Coordinate, Don’t Match

Gone are the days of everyone in identical white shirts and jeans. Instead, aim for coordinating outfits that blend together in a natural way. Pick a soft color palette, then mix and match textures and layers within that scheme.

Style tip: Start with mom’s outfit first…something she feels beautiful and comfortable in! Then build the rest of the family’s wardrobe around that.

3. Embrace Barefoot, Windy Hair, and Play

Summer photos are about capturing joy, not perfection. If the kids kick off their shoes, or if the wind catches your hair just right…that’s the magic. Some of the most beautiful images happen when families are relaxed and just enjoying the moment together.

Style tip: Let the kids bring something fun! Bubbles, a straw hat, or a favorite summer book can add a playful touch and help them feel at ease.

Ready to Book Your Summer Session?

My calendar is now open through September, and these golden summer evenings are already filling up. Let’s create something beautiful and full of joy for your family this season.

📅 Book Your Session Here

Have questions about what to wear? I’m happy to help you plan your outfits!

Why Every Mom-to-Be Deserves a Maternity Session

Why Every Mom-to-Be Deserves a Maternity Session

Pregnancy is a fleeting and extraordinary time—a chapter filled with anticipation, love, and the miracle of new life. As a Lancaster Maternity Photographer, I believe every mom-to-be deserves to have this special journey documented with beautiful maternity photos. These images not only capture the glow and beauty of pregnancy but also preserve the emotions and memories that come with it. Here are a few reasons why investing in a maternity session is one of the best gifts you can give yourself and your growing family.

Celebrate Your Incredible Journey

Carrying a new life is nothing short of remarkable. Your body is doing something truly amazing, and that deserves to be celebrated. Maternity photos allow you to pause and embrace the beauty of this phase, highlighting your strength, grace, and the love you already have for your baby. At Angie Englerth Photography, I specialize in creating timeless, elegant portraits that showcase the beauty of motherhood in a way that you will treasure forever. My mission is "Capturing your journey to and through motherhood," ensuring every stage is beautifully documented.

Preserve Precious Memories

Pregnancy may feel long, but in hindsight, it is a brief and precious season. Once your baby arrives, those nine months will seem to have flown by. Maternity photos give you the chance to freeze this incredible time and revisit it for years to come. Whether it's the first flutter of kicks or the anticipation of meeting your little one, these moments deserve to be remembered.

Connect with Your Baby

A maternity session is more than just a photoshoot—it is an opportunity to reflect and connect with the new life growing inside you. Taking time to celebrate your pregnancy through professional maternity photos fosters a sense of closeness and allows you to cherish this intimate bond. It is also a beautiful way to document the love and excitement you feel as you prepare to welcome your baby.

Include Your Loved Ones

Maternity sessions are also a wonderful way to involve your partner or other children. Capturing the joy and anticipation your family feels can make your maternity photos even more meaningful. At Angie Englerth Photography, I encourage including loved ones to showcase the shared excitement and love surrounding your baby’s arrival.

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience

Every pregnancy is unique, and each one deserves to be remembered. Whether it's your first child or your fourth, this journey is one of the most significant and transformative experiences of your life. Having professional maternity photos taken allows you to celebrate this chapter and creates a visual legacy that your child can one day cherish.

You Deserve to Feel Beautiful

Pregnancy can be challenging, and it is easy to forget just how radiant and powerful you are. A maternity session is a chance to pamper yourself, feel beautiful, and embrace this moment in all its glory. I work with each client to ensure they feel comfortable, confident, and stunning in front of the camera. My goal is to provide a stress-free, empowering experience that leaves you with images you'll love forever.

Book Your Maternity Session Today

Every mom-to-be deserves to have their pregnancy story told through beautiful, professional maternity photos. If you're ready to celebrate and preserve this special chapter, I would love to help you capture these priceless memories. Contact Angie Englerth Photography today to schedule your maternity session and let’s create images that you and your family will cherish for a lifetime.

How to Prepare for Your Newborn Photo Session

Preparing for your newborn photo session is an exciting time, and a little preparation can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips to help you get ready:

1. Timing

As a newborn photographer, I recommend scheduling your newborn photos when your baby is around 10-14 days old. However, at Angie Englerth Photography, I understand that life happens, and I am very flexible if you cannot get your baby in before then. Newborns are typically sleepier and more amenable to posing during the first two weeks, which helps us capture those precious, peaceful moments, but we can still create beautiful images beyond that timeframe.

2. Feeding and Sleep

A well-fed baby is a content baby. Plan to feed your little one right before the session to encourage a full tummy and a restful sleep. This helps us achieve those serene, sleepy poses that parents love in their newborn photos.

3. Creating a Comfortable Environment

Our studio at Angie Englerth Photography is designed to be warm and cozy, ensuring your baby feels secure. We maintain a comfortable temperature and provide soothing sounds to mimic the womb environment, helping your newborn relax.

4. What to Bring

• Outfits and Accessories: While we provide a variety of props and outfits, feel free to bring any special items you'd like to include in your newborn photos, such as a cherished blanket or heirloom.

• Essentials: Pack extra diapers, wipes, and any feeding supplies you may need. Having these on hand ensures you're prepared for any situation.

5. Family Involvement

Including parents and siblings in the session adds a personal touch to your newborn photos. Coordinate simple, neutral-colored outfits to keep the focus on your family's connections.

6. Patience is Essential

Newborn sessions can last up to 2 hours to accommodate feeding, changing, and soothing. We take the time to ensure your baby is comfortable, allowing for natural and beautiful moments to unfold.

By following these guidelines, we aim to create a relaxed and enjoyable experience, capturing the tender moments of your newborn's early days. If you have any questions or specific requests, please don't hesitate to reach out to your trusted Lancaster Newborn Photographer.

How to Capture Love in Everyday Moments | Angie Englerth Photography

How to Capture Love in Everyday Moments

Simple Photography Tips for Parents

Love isn’t just in posed photos—it’s in the little, everyday moments that make your family unique. Here are a few easy ways to capture those heartfelt memories:

1️⃣ Look for Genuine Connection

Instead of asking your kids to smile at the camera, capture them interacting naturally—whether it’s laughing with a sibling, hugging a favorite stuffed animal, or whispering secrets to you.

2️⃣ Get on Their Level

Try kneeling down or sitting at their height to photograph the world from their perspective. It creates a more intimate and engaging photo.

3️⃣ Use Soft, Natural Light

Take advantage of window light indoors or head outside during golden hour (just after sunrise or before sunset) for a warm, flattering glow.

4️⃣ Capture the Small Details

Tiny hands holding yours, tousled morning hair, little feet dangling from a chair—these close-up shots help tell the full story of childhood.

5️⃣ Let the Moment Lead the Shot

Candid moments are often the most precious. Instead of directing the scene, step back and let life unfold—whether it’s a kitchen dance party, a cozy book reading, or a spontaneous hug.

6️⃣ Embrace Imperfection

Not every shot needs to be perfectly posed—sometimes the silly faces, messy hands, and unexpected giggles make the best memories.

Bonus Challenge: This Valentine’s Day, try capturing a moment of love each day—whether it’s a hug, a kind gesture, or a sweet expression. You’ll be amazed at the little treasures you’ll collect!

Celebrating 10 Years of AEP | Lancaster PA Maternity & Newborn Photography

10 Years

As I sit here writing this blog post, I can hardly believe it’s been 10 years. There have been plenty of struggles and growing pains over the years, but I couldn’t be more grateful for every single year. I look forward to seeing what the Lord has in store for AEP in the years to come!

I thought it would be fun to look back at some of my favorite photos (there’s no way to include them all)! If you came here from Facebook or Instagram, you may already be aware I am also giving away a photo session and digital collection valued at $775! See below for details on how to enter!

To enter, simply head to the Giveaway Entry Form and submit to win!

What to Wear for Family Photos | Fall Edition

Dressing for photos is always tricky! I put together a few insiration boards for you as a starting point to plan your family’s wardrobe for your family photo session.

Focus on coordinating, not matching!

Start by choosing a color scheme of 2-3 colors. I recommend choosing mom’s outfit first and building the wardrobe around that. Choose something you love, but also are comfortable in! When you’re comfortable, it shows and you’ll be much more relaxed for your session!

Other things to note: Save the graphics and logos for another time! Also avoid busy patterns. The best way to “spice” up your wardrobe a bit is to incorporate different textures!

Here are five fun wardrobes to start your planning for your Fall family photos! And if you’re looking for a photographer, I’m your girl!

Everything is linked below! Enjoy!

Warm Spices

Womens dress. Toddler Dress. Boys sweater. Boys Jeans. Mens Sweater. Mens Jeans.

Soft and Fun

Womens dress. Boys top. Boys bottoms. Girls dress. Mens sweater. Mens pants.

Super Casual

Womens sweater. Mens polo. Mens jeans. Boys bodysuit. Boys pants. Girls jumpsuit.

Boho Dream

Girls dress. Girls sweater. Womens lace dress. Baby boys overall set. Mens top. Mens bottoms.

Muted tones

Womens floral skirt. Womens tan top. Brown cardigan. Girls yellow jumpsuit. Navy one piece for baby.

What to Wear for Family Photos | Spring Edition

Dressing for photos is always tricky! I put together a few insiration boards for you as a starting point to plan your family’s wardrobe for your family photo session.

Focus on coordinating, not matching!

Start by choosing a color scheme of 2-3 colors. I recommend choosing mom’s outfit first and building the wardrobe around that. Choose something you love, but also are comfortable in! When you’re comfortable, it shows and you’ll be much more relaxed for your session!

Other things to note: Save the graphics and logos for another time! Also avoid busy patterns. The best way to “spice” up your wardrobe a bit is to incorporate different textures!

Here are five fun wardrobes to start your planning for your Spring family photos! And if you’re looking for a photographer, I’m your girl!

Everything is linked below! Enjoy!

Creamy Neutrals

Womens tan dress. Mens Linen shirt. Mens Jeans. Mens Jacket. Boys Brown shirt. Boys Ecru Jeans. Girls overalls. Girls jacket.

Spring Blooms

Boys salmon top. Boys Ecru Jeans. Girls floral dress. Girls denim jacket. Womens cream dress. Mens shirt. Mens shorts.

Mellow Yellow

Womens yellow dress. Baby overalls. Baby Yellow bodysuit. Girls yellow dress. Tan shirt. Mens cargo pants.

Going Green

Green Womens Dress. Womens Denim Jacket. Green shirt. Boys Jean Shorts. Mens plaid shirt. Mens jeans. Girls white dress.

Muted tones

Womens floral skirt. Womens tan top. Brown cardigan. Girls yellow jumpsuit. Navy one piece for baby.

What to Wear for your Maternity Photo Session | Spring Edition

What to Wear | Spring Edition

Deciding what to wear for your maternity photoshoot is stressful! One of things I pride myself on is offering a full wardrobe for my clients. Even still, I know it’s tricky to dress the whole family. Here is a guide to help you dress everyone else using some of the gowns in our wardrobe! All the links are included below!

Floral Fun

Sew Trendy Gown provided by AEP. Modern Khakis. Green Resort Shirt. Boys Dyed Pants. Boys Pink Slub Tshirt. Pink Denim Overalls. Girls Plain White Tshirt.

Feeling Blue

Sew Trendy Gown provided by AEP. Blue Mens Shirt. Mens Chino Pants. Girls Cream Dress. Boys Canvas Pants. Boys Henley Shirt.

Creamy Neutrals

Boys Pants. Boys Ecru Shirt. Sew Trendy Maternity gown provided by AEP. Mens Stone Shirt. Mens Pants. Girls Macy Dress.

Pretty in Pink

Sew Trendy Gown provided by AEP. Mens Chambray Shirt. Mens Khaki Pants. Boys Jeans. Boys Pink Shirt. Girls Pink Dress.

Very Violet

Sew Trendy Gown provided by AEP. Toddler Corduroy Dress. Mens Navy Pants. Mens Blue Top. Boys Purple Top. Boys Jeans.

2020 Highlights | A Year in Review

As I sit here to write this blog post, I’m not sure where to begin. I know I am not alone in saying that 2020 was a hard year full of challenges and obstacles that we were forced to find ways to navigate through. In my personal life alone, there were challenges.

We watched my Mother in law battle cancer and brain tumors that required surgery and radiation.
I landed in the hospital three times in March and April for kidney trouble, alone as the hospital was on lockdown.
We struggled, and are still struggling, with remote learning with our oldest.
We navigated through months of my business being closed and my income going from a substantial part of our household to nothing.

When I began to work on gathering highlights for the year, my heart sank. It truly hit me how hard this year has been. My folders for Milestone, Maternity and Family sessions that once were full of many moments captured, felt insufficient. When I began to run my numbers for the year, I felt a pit in my stomach, like I was letting my family down. This year was HARD.

That said, I also realize just how fortunate we are. God provided and we were always able to pay our bills. I was able to get the medical care I needed to avoid any permanent kidney damage. My mother in law was able to complete her treatments and is currently doing great! Our son is still struggling with school, but after actively seeking answers this year, we were able to get him the help he needs and he is on his way to being the best version of himself.

My family has grown stronger this year with all the time we’ve been forced to spend together. We’ve gone on camping adventures together, hiked and explored together, build box forces together, played games together, laughed together, cried together and grown together. That alone makes all the hardship worth it to me. I pray that I never take it for granted again to spend time with my kids while they are still kids and form bonds with them that will last a lifetime.

My sister in law recently reminded me of Hebrews 13:5 “God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.’” That could not be more true for me this year. I am not sure what I would do if I did not have the hope that God is in control and he works all things together for my good.

Now for the highlights, which I know is why you are all here anyway. A huge highlight for me was being able to spend more time on sessions for friends and family. Instead of cramming them into my schedule where I could, I was able to dedicate time to them alone which made for some magical sessions! I gained a new niece and nephew and was able to have sessions for them as well! I also have a client, Alyssa, who definitely deserves a serious shoutout after trusting me to capture her fourth maternity and newborn sessions in a row. (Thank you Alyssa!)

The newborn aspect of my business remained fairly stable throughout the year and I cannot state enough how thankful I am for trusting me to capture these first moments for you. Sure, studio sessions looked a lot different this year, but thank you to those who accepted the new policies and just rolled with the punches to get through sessions safely!

I also feel the healthcare workers deserve a special shoutout! I am sharing some of my clients this year who are frontline workers, but there are so many more of you out there. Sincerest thanks for all you do and are doing!

I know this year isn’t going to be a magical reset button, but I am hopeful and optimistic that I will be able to see more of you this year and capture more priceless memories for your family. Cheers to 2021 and God Bless!

Take the Picture | Lancaster Maternity, Newborn & Family Photographer | Angie Englerth

Hey mama! Yes, you! Hiding in the bathroom? Feeding your baby in the dark? Sitting in the car for a few minutes before going into the grocery store? I see you. I am you.

The late nights. The bodily fluids, my gosh, the amount of bodily fluids little humans can make! The tantrums. The clinginess. The endless laundry. The mess of toys. Motherhood is full of challenges.

If you’re like me, you can’t wait for your kids to go to bed each night. Then you lay in bed looking at pictures of them reminding yourself how much you love them and how much more meaningful your life is because of them.

That’s where I come in! Let’s chat about the moments you’d like to freeze in time with a photo. You know, the smiles and laughs. The wonder in their eyes. The endless snuggles, kisses and repeated whispers of “I love you Mommy.”

Let’s capture it together so when you’re hiding in the bathroom or the car or the floor in your closet (no? Just me?), you can look at your phone background and be reminded that it’s all worth it.

All that to say, booking for Spring 2020 is now open!

Rainbow Pregnancy | Angie Englerth Photography

Angie’s Story

Where to even begin. For those that have followed along with me for a while, you probably know much of our story already. Back in 2017, I organized a very special rainbow maternity project and shared a bit of my story there. To make a long story short(er), we found ourselves having trouble growing our family after Jackson. We lost a pregnancy in July 2014 and then struggled to get pregnant again until our first miracle baby (Sawyer) arrived in December 2015. I suffered some health issues in December 2016 which required surgery in May 2017. Once we received the all clear (I had a golf ball sized tumor in my sinuses that ended up being nothing of concern!), we decided we were ready to try expanding our family once again. (I share in a little more detail here). We were blessed immediately with a positive pregnancy test. Needless to say, we were thrilled! Sadly, we lost that baby a week after finding out in June 2017. Then began a painful waiting process. It wouldn’t be until October 2018 before we had another viable pregnancy (I had a chemical pregnancy as well in August 2018).

All of these dates may seem totally insignificant, but God’s timing is absolutely perfect. You see, Ben was working crazy hours for three years. I’m talking 7 days a week….swing shift….10-16 hour days….it was insane. It was beyond challenging on our marriage and our boys. Looking back, I can’t imagine juggling a third child in the midst of that chaos. Now go back to when we found out we were expecting in October 2018. We were so thrilled and knew we would just have to make it work whatever happened. Ben began job hunting more seriously to get out of his crazy schedule and we just prayed that something would open up. Eventually, in January, something did open up. At his current job, in a position he worked previously years ago. He made the switch and while his schedule is still a little unpredictable, we have him home! And we wouldn’t trade that for a minute. For those that know us on a more personal level, you know the struggle we went through to get here and what it means to have him around more now. Okay, that was a bit of a tangent, but all this to say, God’s timing is perfect. This baby will be joining our family at a time when Ben will be much more available and present in our home life.

When we found out this baby was a girl, well….I’m not sure I can put into words how we felt. Blessed. So so blessed. No matter what the gender, this baby was already so loved and so wanted. A girl just brings us something new and different and we are excited to see how she fits into our family. We decided on a name that mean’s God’s promise because that is truly what she means to us. God promises that He will make all things work together for our good….even when we don’t see it…..even when we have to go through a lot of bad to get to it. He is working things together for our good. This baby is such a sweet symbol of positive change for our family. An answer to years of prayers…not just to expand our family, but to be able to be a family. To be together and not just working all the time.

A lot of people ask if we are done since this is a girl. While I feel this is a pretty private question, I have been fairly public with my journey so why not answer this too. The answer is we don’t know. We want to fully enjoy our time with this baby and our time as a family of five (whether it stays that way forever or not). What I can tell you is this - I have never felt such a deep appreciation for a pregnancy than this one. I realize looking back how naive I was when I was carrying Jackson and not fully appreciating the miracle that it was. I definitely had more of an appreciation with my pregnancy with Sawyer, but this one has felt even more special. Maybe because it could very well be my last. Maybe because we waited so long for this sweet girl. Who knows.

I am very pregnant/hormonal/sentimental writing this so thank you for bearing with me! Maternity photos have always been on my mind, but when it came down to it, I just never felt like doing them. On this morning, the boys brought it up (Jackson did at least) and I warmed up to the idea. I decided to put my discomfort aside and just get it done! The boys helped choose my dresses and accessories and pushed the button on the camera for me. I am so glad I did it (and hopefully will still do some with the Mr). I am so grateful for the way God has blessed me and our family. Now for the fun part….enjoy some favorites from my session with the boys!

March Maternity Madness

It’s my favorite sale of the year! It's time for March Maternity Madness and we are offering something totally new this year!

Book your newborn session during the sale and receive a complimentary maternity mini session including three digital images!

Please keep in mind I will be out on maternity leave from mid June through August. If your due date falls in that range and you would still like a maternity mini session, you can book one during the sale for just $150!

Book your newborn session here! 

Book only the maternity mini here!

Contact me with any questions!

We have some news | Lancaster Maternity and Newborn Photographer | Angie Englerth

We have some exciting news to share!

I had so many big plans for announcing this little one, but the reality is, this pregnancy has been tough. I spent the first few months very sick and extremely tired and taking care of my two boys during this process has proven to be challenging. Please don't read this as me being ungrateful. That is so far from the truth. After our losses and trouble to conceive, this baby is our sweet miracle baby and I can't wait to share more with you.

Let's start back in 2017 when doctors found a tumor in my sinus that had grown to the size of a golf ball and was up against the wall of my brain. Can you say terrifying? Ben and I had to lean on our faith in God and trust that He would bring us through. We had a wonderful church family, our family and friends that came around us and supported us through the whole process. Many doctor appointments, scans and a surgery later and my wonderful doctor was able to remove the entire tumor and....wait for it...they found NOTHING but infection in it. My doctors and everyone around us were stumped. They had never seen anything like it, but we knew God worked a miracle and to say we are grateful would be an understatement.

Why am I telling you this? Because it was when we found out the great news that I was in the clear that we decided to try for a third child. We always knew we wanted lots of kids and with Sawyer in the toddler stage, we felt we were ready to add to the family. We got pregnant immediately which was a shock to both of us after our struggles to conceive before.  We were ecstatic to say the least. We were coming out of a terrifying and challenging period and about to start a joyous journey to meet this baby. Unfortunately, about a week after we found out, we lost the baby. Anyone who has experienced a loss is probably reading this and reliving their loss and for that, I am sorry. It is one of the hardest things that we as women experience. The feelings of failure and inadequacy are relentless and as much as you try to fight them with the head knowledge that it is not your fault, it overtakes you and you fall into a bout of sadness and depression. With this loss, I was so blessed with a supportive husband who took care of me physically and emotionally and friends who came alongside of me, praying for me and encouraging me as I grieved. 

I will fast forward a bit so I don't keep you here reading all day. I went to see my doctor about nine months later as we were having trouble conceiving again and after some tests, we couldn't find anything obvious causing the issue. We decided to keep trying for a little and revisit if we still couldn't conceive. It was August of 2018 when we had a trip planned to Great Wolf Lodge for my birthday. That is when I experienced a chemical pregnancy and Ben and I both decided we were going to take a break from trying. It was becoming too stressful and causing so much anxiety that we just needed to take a step back.

About a month later, I decided to take a test out of curiosity and about fell to the floor when I saw it was positive. I pulled out my digital test and it turned immediately. Ben had just laid down to sleep after working a night shift, but I ran upstairs to tell him before he dozed off. We both sat there stunned. Excited. Nervous. So many emotions. 

The next few months were interesting. At our first ultrasound in November, the tech thought she saw a flicker, but couldn't confirm anything and I needed to return in a week. That was one of the hardest weeks of waiting I have ever been too. The next ultrasound we almost missed because of traffic, but I am so thankful for the staff at May Grant for being flexible and allowing us in very late on a Friday night. We saw the strong flicker of a heart beat and to say Ben and I were emotional would be an understatement. I was very sick in the beginning, but I was thankful for the sickness because after a loss, there is so much anxiety around whether or not the baby is okay. I can honestly say this pregnancy hasn't felt "real" until now, 15 weeks, when I am starting to feel light flutters that reassure me there is a healthy baby growing in there. 

If you read all that, thank you. Thank you for following my (abbreviated) journey. When a pregnancy gets announced, there are inevitably a bunch of questions that come to follow. I have gone ahead and answered as many as could. Enjoy!

When are you due?
June 28

Any Cravings?
I had a few random cravings though out the first few months including strawberry Mentos, Auntie Anne's pretzels, Turkey Wrap with mayo (I HATE mayo!!), but was recently diagnosed with Gestational Diabetes again so I will likely have to fight the urge for my cravings the rest of this pregnancy unless I happen to crave a salad or eggs ;-)

Are you hoping for a girl?
No. When I say no, I mean because all I want is a healthy baby. My boys are the best thing to happen to me on this earth so if God gives me another boy, I would be grateful. I will be equally in love with a boy or a girl. 

Is this your last?
This is a hard one for me. I feel like it's a very personal question, but because I've already been asked a bunch, I will address it. We don't know. This very well could be our last baby, but we are not making that decision right now. 

What are the age gaps of your kids?
Jackson will be 6 when baby is born and Sawyer is 3. Jackson and Sawyer are about two and a half years apart and Sawyer and this baby will be about three and a half years apart. If you would've asked me ten years ago, I would've told you I wanted lots of kids super close together, but God's timing is perfect and my boys right now are best friends and fairly self-sufficient so I am excited to see Jackson be a big brother again and Sawyer for the first time. 

Do you have names picked out?
We only just started discussing names, but we typically don't share the name until after baby is born.

What does this mean for Angie Englerth Photography?
Not a whole lot. I will be taking maternity leave from the middle of June to August, but will be back for the busy fall season. I may not be taking on quite as many sessions so if you want a fall session, I suggest booking as soon as booking opens.

Thank you to all of my sweet clients and followers for your support on my journey. Your encouragement and patience with me through the hard times has meant more to me than you could ever know. I look forward to sharing more of my pregnancy with you and eventually our newest little addition. 

Highlights of 2018 | Lancaster Maternity & Newborn Photographer | Angie Englerth Photography

Highlights of 2018

When I sat down to pick some highlights for 2018, I had a hard time narrowing it down. I ended up choosing 20 images to share with you and they all have their own unique reason I'm sharing them. Please enjoy scrolling through the highlights. I can't wait to see what 2019 brings for AEP!

First up is sweet Adelaide. I am sharing an image from her session because of the sweet details. One of my favorite parts of photographing newborns is capturing their tiny details.

Next up is Michelle's baby plan. This is a vision I got back in 2016 and it took this sweet mama and her baby girl and over a year of sessions to make it happen. I couldn't be happier with the final result! 

Next on the list is Saira's session because....baby smiles....enough said.

Saira's mama also made the list when she wore our stunning Plum Angora gown from Sew Trendy Accessories against this beautiful blue barn wall. 

Michelle made the list ten times over but I had to narrow down my favorite from her session. I always come back to this image because it shows such strength in carrying a new life. 

Logan made the highlight reel because of those adorable spit bubbles nestled between his tiny lips!

Lincoln was born at just the right time with mom and dad being fans of rival teams during the super bowl. I think we all know how this one turned out!  

I love when parents incorporate special things to them and Keller's session was no exception with his Where the Wild Things are theme.

Of course these cuties made the highlight reel! If you haven't read their story yet, check it out here!

Magdelana's session was supposed to be outside but due to weather and other obstacles that came up, we ended up in the studio. Needless to say, it ended up being one of my favorite maternity sessions of the year. I mean, look at their adorable interaction together! 

Alyssa has to make my highlight reel because she is the first mama to return to me for her third pregnancy and I am beyond grateful that she has trusted me to capture all three of her pregnancies and babies. This picture shows so much strength which of course I love!

Okay, this one is a little biased, but my niece Audrey has to make the highlight reel! She was so sweet to work with and her images are some of my favorites to this day! 

Also a little biased, but when your best friend is pregnant and lets you play in the snow, magic happens! So thankful we were able to do this session!

Stephanie's maternity session makes the highlight reel for a few reasons. First because Stephanie and Mark have been coming to me since their son was just one year old and now I was able to capture this RAINBOW MIRACLE pregnancy and their sweet baby girl! This session was so special to me! 

These guys make the list because it is not very often that we get such a successful shot of three siblings! I just had to include it! 

Felicity made the reel for her beautiful hair. Also because I just love this image!

As a follow up to Stephanie's maternity image that made the reel, I am also including her sweet rainbow baby girl. 

I love this shot from Cooper's newborn session. He is the third child for these two and I love seeing the love in their faces for him. It never gets old! 

This was one of the most fun creative shoots I did in 2018. My sweet husband was more than eager to participate and we gave mama dino a dream maternity session!

This one is from our 2018 Mommy & Me {Dream Lighting} Event. I love everything about this image because Keana is such a sweet and spunky little girl. When she picked up the batman mask, we just rolled with it and I absolutely adore this! 

Moms, Be IN The Picture | Lancaster Portrait Photographer | Angie Englerth

Mother's Day Challenge - Be IN The Picture

I am challenging moms everywhere to take a moment to be in the picture today with your kids (big or small)! It is so important to not only capture them at these ages and stages, but to capture you with them. You are their mother. If your kids are little, you are their everything. You are their whole world. Do them the honor of capturing that so when they grow, they can look back and remember how much you loved them. If your kids are grown, your role may have shifted a bit, but you are still and will always be their mom. Jump in the photo with them! Life is too short and we simply don't know how much longer we will be on this Earth. Give your kids the gift of photos with them. It is something they will treasure forever.

Instead of staying on my soap box, I enlisted the help of a few other mamas to show just how important being in the images can be!

Lisa

"[I love] being able to capture the way my child looks at me, smiles at me, laughs with me and it makes me feel like I am the most perfect person in her world. And it makes me so proud to be her mommy. I have everything from maternity to newborn to milestones to family sessions [displayed in my home] and I cherish them all. Having photos that my child can look at and see will reassure her that she is loved and appreciated since before we even met her."
"The Mommy & Me event makes me feel like a mini celebrity... it's always nice to be pampered and feel 100% beautiful but then to share that beauty with my little girl next to me, who feels "so pretty" in her dress, just smiling, laughing and dancing, gives me such gratitude to share in these moments with her that she will be able to see as she grows up. A single picture can tell an entire story and reflect so much love, I only hope she sees, in these photos, all the love I have for her now, until forever."

Yuliya
"I was in a mommy & me session with my five precious children recently. What a great experience it was. As a homeschooling busy mom I rarely can get all of my kids together for pictures. But when I do I am usually not in them because I am the one taking them. So having this opportunity to dress up, have some tickle and laughter time with my fast growing children while have our pictures taken was priceless to me. Angie captured lots of sweet moments that will be cherished for a long time by me and my kids as they grow up."

Tiffany
"Being able to actually see the happiness and love in my sons face when he looks at me is a precious memory! A memory I will get to share with him for many many years to come thanks to the Mommy and Me event! [These pictures] mean a lot! I don’t get to do many mother son things, but I’m so glad we were able to do this together! I will treasure these photos forever!"