After the Storm: Life-Changing Reasons to Schedule a Family Photo Shoot Now September 13, 2025 – Posted in: Blog

Life After the Storm: Finding Meaning in Family Moments

When back-to-back hurricanes disrupted our lives, the last thing on our minds was booking a family photo shoot. Our home was damaged, routines were shattered, and we were still piecing together what “normal” looked like. But in the middle of that chaos, we realized something powerful: family photography after a hurricane isn’t just about smiling for the camera—it’s about documenting resilience, love, and connection.

Family photos by Flytographer in Alfama, Portugal.

Booking a family photo session after hardship may feel strange, but it lets you create a visual record of strength and survival that will matter more than any “perfectly planned” portrait session later. Taking a selfie or having one parent take the photo (and not be in it) is a missed opportunity. As mothers, we’re usually the ones behind the lens.

Why We Chose to Book the Family Photos Anyway

Family portraits showing joy and healing through photography

At first, the thought of getting dressed up and putting on a smile seemed impossible. But the truth is, those moments of hesitation are the exact times when family photography matters most.

  • Memories Don’t Wait: Children grow, seasons pass, and life moves on—even after disaster. Waiting until “things feel better” often means missing irreplaceable moments.
  • Creating Normalcy for Kids: For our child, the photo shoot wasn’t about hurricanes—it was about having fun, laughing, and being seen as a family again.

The Importance of Taking Photos Even When You Don’t Feel Ready

Standing in a doorway in Lisbon against a red wall and green door.

Many families delay professional portraits because they don’t feel prepared. Life is messy, the outfits aren’t perfect, or life feels too heavy. But here’s the truth:

  • Perfection Isn’t the Goal: What makes photos meaningful isn’t flawless hair or matching clothes—it’s the emotion, the hugs, and the laughter captured in real time.
  • You’ll Treasure Them Later: Even if you don’t feel like smiling today, your future self will thank you for freezing this season of life in photos.
  • Photography as Healing: Taking family photos after hardship can be part of the healing process. Healing through photography shifts the focus from what was lost to what remains—love, togetherness, and hope.

Why Family Photos Are More Important After Hardship

Family photos on a rooftop in Lisbon with a sun setting.

Moments of crisis have a way of clarifying what really matters. After hurricanes, floods, or any life-altering event, family photos become more than pictures. They are:

  • A celebration of survival
  • A time capsule of resilience
  • A reminder of gratitude

Instead of waiting for the “perfect moment,” creating portraits during challenging times gives depth and meaning to your family story. If you’re wondering why family photos are important after a hurricane or disaster, the answer is simple: they offer lasting proof that love endures through every storm.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait, Capture Your Family Story Now

Family jumping on in family photos in Portugal neighborhood of Alfama.

If you’ve been putting off scheduling family photos because you’re tired, stressed, or not in the mood, take this as your sign: book the photo shoot anyway. Life doesn’t wait for us to feel ready. Photos taken during the imperfect, messy, emotional seasons often end up being the most treasured.

After back-to-back hurricanes, our family photo shoot wasn’t about perfect smiles—it was about proof. Proof that joy can exist after hardship, that family is worth celebrating, and that even in the aftermath of a storm, love always shines through.


Special Note: If you’re ready to schedule your own session, use OFFER CODE: CHELSEABOND (or this link) when booking to receive $25 OFF your first Flytographer shoot and make this meaningful step a little easier. This can be used anywhere in the world where you’d like to have your photo shoot!


SHOP LINKS

Jewelry: Chelsea Bond Signature Jewelry | Suede Boots: Sapataria do Carmo | Dress: LOFT (similar styles available here) | Kid’s Outfit: here | Men’s Outfit: Zara


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chelsea bond sitting in a swing chair.

Chelsea Bond is a jewelry designer and founder of Chelsea Bond Jewelry, a collection of handcrafted, waterproof, and hypoallergenic pieces inspired by global travel and the healing energy of gemstones. Her designs are featured in luxury resorts and spas around the world, where each piece invites guests to carry the spirit of their journey long after their stay. When she’s not creating spa and resort jewelry, Chelsea curates travel experiences through BondVoyage, sharing destinations that inspire her designs and storytelling.