Keith Pitts 2013 Photo Shoot: A Typical Day in the Upper West Side

In between our trips to visit family in Florida and California, Keith Pitts offered to do a photo shoot with us in NYC. I couldn't say no, especially after receiving these amazing photos last year. I love how Keith takes pictures of spontaneous moments that might not fit the mold of a typical family photo shoot. Oscar wants to place a loaf of bread on his head? Great idea. Owen wants to go shirtless. Sure, why not? Ella decides to run ahead of the gang? Go for it. It's in those moments that Keith captures our family perfectly.

The first time I worked with Keith, I was shocked at his unstaged approach, especially when he asked my kids about their favorite toys. I was mortified when Owen brought out his Tow Mater truck and not his handmade wooden cars. I'll never forget the "It's totally cool" shrug Keith gave me as he took pictures of Owen playing with it. The photo ended up being one of my favorites.

This time around, I took comfort knowing we could be ourselves and our evening in Central Park would unfold naturally. My plan for the shoot was simple: Meet Keith on our street corner, head over to our bodega for snacks, and then walk to Central Park to play. I wanted Keith to capture a typical Upper West Side day for us. He nailed it. The images feel unfussy mixed with a little bit of humor and love.

If you would like to work with Keith Pitts, I obviously highly recommend him. He's based out of Arizona, but loves to travel. He makes frequent stops in San Francisco, New York and Paris. Book him for everything including weddings, engagement, family, pets, newborn, and children's photography. Click here to view more work from his portfolio.

Keep reading to see our NYC night from start to end  . . .

Owen was feeling a little uneasy about his tank top. 

We stop at this tiny market about once a day and buy fresh fruit, veggies, and candy. 

All of us in one shot!! Success. 

i would love to see them recreate this shot in 20 years. 

catching fireflies

(above is my favorite image)

(above is owen's favorite. he told me as I was writing this)

I wish I was smiling, but I was too annoyed that oscar kept running away. this is my "i'm trying to keep it together" face. haha

 Aaand I still haven't posted all the images. If you want to see all the pictures, Keith made this slide show. Thanks Keith!