Add a creative twist to your next shoot with an interactive family photo session—let your child photograph with a retro-style Fujifilm camera!


As a Santa Barbara family photographer, I’m always looking for ways to make sessions more meaningful, memorable, and—most importantly—fun. That’s why I’m excited to introduce a new option for families: interactive family photo sessions where your child gets to become the photographer for a moment.


During a recent session with my own family, my son was completely hooked on using a camera we brought along. He couldn’t put it down—and the images he captured? Pure magic. That day sparked a new idea that I’m now bringing to my client sessions.


Starting now, I’m offering the chance for kids (generally ages 6 and up) to get involved in a hands-on, creative way. I’ll bring my retro-style Fujifilm X100VI, a film-like digital camera, and if your child shows interest, they can step into the role of photographer for part of the session.

What to Expect from This Interactive Family Photo Experience


These interactive family photo sessions go beyond just being in front of the camera—they invite your child to see your family through their own eyes. I’ll provide light guidance and let them explore creatively. Whether they’re capturing their sibling, the family dog, or even you, their perspective often leads to the most heartwarming, unscripted moments.


It’s a simple way to make your session even more personal and layered with meaning—and it helps kids feel seen, included, and proud.

How to Add This to Your Session


If this sounds like something your family would enjoy, just let me know ahead of time and I’ll bring the Fuji camera along. There’s no extra charge and no pressure to include it—it’s simply a creative bonus for kids who are curious and ready to explore.


Interactive family photo sessions like this are a great fit for families who want something a little different: candid, playful, and truly collaborative.

Hands-on family photo session. Family stand together in a sunlit meadow with mountains and trees in the background on a warm afternoon.
Kid behind the camera photo session. A family moment captured in golden light as they spend time together in a meadow with mountains.
Creative family photo session ideas. Happy couple embraces while standing in a sunlit meadow during golden hour.
Boy using retro camera during a playful outdoor family shoot
Child photographing parents during interactive family photo session in a Santa Barbara field
Family and their dog explore a mountain trail. Santa Barbara interactive photographer.
Behind-the-scenes moment of a family photo session with Fujifilm X100VI
Family sessions with Fujifilm X100VI. Couple sits with their mini aussie while son takes photo.
Kid photographing the family dog—part of an interactive photo experience
Child-led photography moments. Golden sunset in a mountain meadow with distant hills creating a peaceful outdoor backdrop.
A couple stands at sunset on a scenic overlook surrounded by desert landscape and distant mountains.
Joyful parents being photographed by their child in golden hour light
Black and white artistic portrait of a couple silhouetted against a mountain landscape in romantic pose.
People enjoying a sunset gathering in a lush meadow with mountains and natural scenery in the background.
Storytelling family photography Santa Barbara. Young boy becomes photographer and takes photos of family dog.

Photos by Beth Armsheimer

Looking for an interactive family photographer in Santa Barbara? Let’s create something beautiful—on both sides of the lens. Reach out to book your session and ask about the camera add-on!