The Mom Photo Balm Blog

Whether it's wrangling my own kiddos or documenting precious memories for other families, my experience as a mom has truly shaped my perspective as a family photographer.

Your Family's Story Unscripted. In the whirlwind of our daily lives, we often find ourselves yearning for a pause button - a moment to savor the laughter, the embraces, and the beautifully ordinary wonders of our family life. I believe in the magic of these everyday moments. This spring, I'm thrilled to introduce "Slice of Life" documentary sessions - an invitation to capture the heart and soul of your family in the most authentic way.

Family photojournalist Kat Calaway shares five tips for an amazing family photo session to create more heartfelt images you’ll cherish for a lifetime!

What really sets a photographer apart as an artist? It's the way they infuse their personal style, creativity, and passion into every shot. It's that magical ability to transform everyday scenes into captivating masterpieces.

I'm thrilled to announce that I'll be (re)focusing my photography work to reflect more of a true photojournalistic style! Capturing the raw emotions, candid moments, and genuine stories is my aim, allowing you to relive those cherished memories for a lifetime.

After the year we’ve both had so far, we sure need this time together. Always remember, you can call your sister!

This is a heartfelt letter written to our son at his homeschool graduation.

Digging through two decades worth of family photos has had me reminiscing the early years of motherhood with many a smile & tears of gratitude!

I call myself a “Storytelling Photographer” but I should clarify what I mean by that. You see, it’s not really your story or mine that I’m actually hoping to capture.

We’re two imperfect people loved by a perfect God putting our efforts together to serve others.

If ever there was an overthinking writer who understood opposing emotions could simultaneously coexist, it’s Dickens. I get it.

As an artist, there’s much more to my photography work than just pressing a button on a fancy camera.

Lupus wrecked my hair, but you’d never know it now! So, what helped? Here are my five best tips for long, healthy hair

After a season of drought, showers of blessings! After a season of not knowing how to move forward, a straight path is illuminated! After a dark season, glorious Light appears on the horizon! Where can all this be found?

My photography client and friend, Kathryn McClatchy interviewed me for Episode One of her brand new podcast. The goal of her show is to demystify the entrepreneurial side of being an author. Click here to listen!

There’s a significant reason why I encourage you to pick up your camera and take photos during hard times!

Mommas, I truly believe we are the instruments through which change will happen. Allow God to work in and through you each day as you love on the souls He has temporarily placed into your care.

I’ve only ever had two goals in homeschooling my children, and literally everything I have ever taught them or that they will ever learn in life is & will be built on this foundation.

I am grateful to love and be love by these four guys. This has been the most wonderfully memorable Mother’s Day weekend! And, BIG NEWS…

I’m practicing what I preach & booked a sunrise photo session with Aletheia Young.

I am now a Damage Control Expert in addition to being Shampoo Dealer Certified! To achieve this recognition, I had to pass a series of tests proving my understanding of damage and the role it plays in the overall health and vitality of our hair.

Two days ago, a dear friend died. My heart feels heavy & broken. I’ve been struggling with how to pray, feeling selfish in my grief.

My role as a mom has transitioned through the years from nurturer, teacher, and disciplinarian to helper, counselor, and friend.

Is it weird to meet with 50+ strangers and leave a few hours later feeling like you just had a big ol’ family get-together?

I earned this hat, because I’m serious about helping you have the best hair of your life!

We need to talk. I’ve had family, friends, and photography clients all confide in me about their insecurities — most of which I can relate to — and I feel like it’s time for a quick heart to heart.

⁠I’m now officially Monat Shampoo Dealer Certified because I’m more SERIOUS than ever about helping YOU have the best hair of your life!⁠

I’m honored to share more about my story + work in this interview with Shoutout DFW!