Why I Edit the Way I Do: Warm, Vibrant, and Sometimes… Black and White?

If you’ve ever scrolled through a gallery from Crossroads Creative Co., you’ve probably noticed that my photos aren’t just snapshots—they’re little time capsules bursting with warmth, color, and joy. Or, in some cases, deep, moody black and whites that feel like they belong in a coffee table book. And yes, there’s a reason for both!

Let’s talk about why I edit the way I do—and how it’s completely intentional based on the type of session we’re capturing.

Photo by Crossroads Creative Co.

Warm & Vibrant for Lifestyle and Special Occasion Sessions

For family lifestyle sessions and special events—think family portraits, senior sessions, milestone moments—I lean into a warm and vibrant editing style. Why?

Because these sessions are all about celebration and connection. I want your gallery to feel like sunshine and smiles, like laughter echoing on a breezy spring evening. The warmth reflects that joy. The vibrant tones bring out the golden glow in your skin, the sparkle in your kids’ eyes, and all the little colors that make your family’s story pop.

I guide you just enough to make you feel comfortable—no stiff poses here! But I also let the real connections happen, so your photos feel alive and genuine. My editing style enhances that feeling with rich color and light, giving you images that look like they came straight out of a memory (just maybe the best version of it!).

Photo by Crossroads Creative Co.

Black & White for Documentary Sessions

Now, when it comes to documentary-style sessions—those beautiful, honest glimpses into your everyday life—I take a different approach. Here, you’ll often see black and white edits. Why?

Because stripping away color helps bring the emotion to the forefront. It cuts the distractions and allows you to focus on what really matters: the glance between siblings, the quiet comfort of a snuggle, the chaos of dinner time, or the beauty in an ordinary Tuesday.

Black and white is timeless. It tells your story in a classic, cinematic way. And when I shoot documentary-style, my goal is to preserve those moments exactly as they are—not styled, not posed, just real life—so using a black and white edit helps underscore that authenticity.

So… Why Both?

Because every family has a rich, full story that deserves more than just one kind of lens.

Warm and vibrant brings out the celebration.

Black and white reveals the soul.

At Crossroads Creative Co., I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all photography. I believe in editing with intention, based on the story we're telling together—whether that’s your kiddo’s senior year, your annual family portraits, or those fleeting newborn snuggles after you bring your new little one home..

Ready to tell your story? Whether you're planning a special occasion or just want to capture your family in this season of life, I’d love to help create something beautiful with you. Let’s chat!