random things about me

Vanilla lattes from Belwood Coffee are my go to drink: hot in the colder months, iced in the summer! I’m always on the lookout for cool coffee shops and my favorite hangout to work out of if I want a change of pace from the studio office is Taproom in the Kirkwood neighborhood.

I really enjoy treating myself to a visit to Lark & Sparrow in Grant Park every so often for a pedicure. It has the most relaxing salon ambiance and attentive service! I always say yes to the warm rice neck pillow and enjoy the quiet while taking time for myself.

I love hanging out with my family and going on adventures together. I’m married to an amazing guy who never fails to make me laugh. We have three children aged 13, 11, and 9 and live in East Atlanta with our two Coton de Tulear fluffballs, Bellatrix & Bandit. (yes, Bellatrix from Harry Potter)

My kids are amazing, kind, and hilarious human beings who make our lives joyful, fun and sometimes chaotic. I’m so grateful I get to be their mom. By the way: if you’re reading this and currently pregnant: CONGRATS!!! Seriously, I’m SO excited for you and your family! Creating a family and being a parent is the coolest experience I’ve been privileged to have.

Hi there!

First off, you should know that my name is Lauren, not Lily Sophia.

I know most other photographers usually name their business after themselves, so don’t worry - you get a pass if you thought it was Lily. So, why did I name my business Lily Sophia? Ask me when you meet me! I love to share the story behind it.

I consider it such an honor to be chosen to photograph you!

If you want to get a feel for what the Lily Sophia Photography experience is like, make sure to watch this short 1.5 minute film if you haven't already! This particular film was shot many years ago when my youngest was three months old in our former Grant Park studio location. Even though it’s over 9 years old now, it will give you a great idea of what to expect!

Come follow me over on Instagram to see more work and get to know more about me. I often post the personal side of my life on Instagram stories if you want to know more about who I am as a person. Heads up: if you become a client of mine and follow me, don’t be surprised if I follow you back after we’ve gotten to know each other. I absolutely adore staying in touch with my clients and watching their little ones grow!

I'm different than other photographers. NO, REALLY.

I don't photograph my sessions with a, "Stand there, look here, say cheeeeeeeeese!" annoyingly peppy approach. Nothing frustrates me more than encountering this myself and it’s the #1 reason I hate most group workout classes.

Sessions with me are relaxed with zero pressure and fun! I truly want to get to know you and your family. But don’t worry: I’m an extroverted introvert, so I won’t exhaust you with questions or talk nonstop. I wear two hearing aids (no, I don’t use or know sign language), and my hearing impairment has given me the incredibly valuable skill of being able to pick up on the body language of all my clients (yes, even the tiny ones!) and an innate ability to “read the room” and match the energy.

MY DEEPEST DESIRE IS FOR you to be who you are, not a fake Pinterest version of yourself.

If you or a member of your family don’t love being in front of the camera, I understand. Being photographed can be hard! Let ME be the one to worry about whether your hair looks okay and getting your toddler (or teenager!) to have fun.  If you're worried about your husband or partner being grumpy during your session, I'm happy to report that I've lost count of the high fives from those guys when sessions with me are concluded. I can’t promise that your husband will beg to come have his photo taken again, but he’ll definitely admit it wasn’t as bad as he thought it would be.

My style is simple & authentic to who my clients are.

You won't ever hear me yelling the words, "Say cheese!" You won't be asked to place your hands in the shape of a heart over your belly during your maternity session. Your partner will not be directed to drop to one knee to kiss it either. Cheesy is not in my vernacular.

You also won't see me stuffing a newborn baby into a basket with a crown or giant flower atop their head. During family sessions, nobody primly sits on a bench with their hands stiffly folded in their lap. Nope. Not having that. We laugh, we play, we snuggle, and we have tickle fights to bring out the best in you as a family unit and showcase your unique dynamic with each other.

I create photographs that become beautiful memories of the real and unforced moments that were shared between you during your session..

Let's get to planning your perfect session! I can’t wait get to know you and work together! Have questions or want more info? Awesome! Hit the button below.