Relaxed, Natural Family & Newborn Portraits in Montgomery County

Guided portrait sessions designed to feel easy, unforced, and genuinely you

Portrait of a new family standing in a field with a cloudy sky behind them
Portrait of a baby girl sitting up on a bed wearing a white bow in her hair
Portrait of new parents holding their baby girl. Photo was taken at Brookside gardens in Silver Spring Maryland
Book your session

Family photos shouldn’t feel stressful.

Most families delay photos because it feels overwhelming — worrying about how the kids will behave, what to wear, or whether the images will feel stiff and unnatural.

That hesitation is normal.

My job is to guide you through the entire session so your family can relax and actually enjoy the experience.

Newborn Portraits

Portrait of a new mom laying on a bed with her baby girl

Newborn sessions are calm, unhurried, and baby-led. I focus on natural moments, gentle direction, and timeless imagery that reflects the love and connection in your home — creating portraits you’ll treasure long after these early days have passed.

View Newborn Portraits

Family Portraits

Portrait of a family of 4 sitting on a porch at a farm house in Gaithersburg, Maryland

Family sessions are designed to feel relaxed and natural — no stiff posing or forced smiles. The focus is on connection, movement, and genuine moments that reflect who your family is right now.

View Family Portraits

A calm, guided experience — from start to finish

Portrait of a family on a porch with two young boys

I’m John Armato, and my goal is simple: to create the best photos you’ve ever had — without anxiety or awkwardness.

I coach every client on posing and expression, guide families gently throughout the session, and keep things relaxed so you can actually enjoy the experience.

What to expect

Plan your session
We’ll start with a short conversation to align on your vision and how you’d like to enjoy your finished images.

Enjoy a relaxed session
Sessions are light, calm, and guided — focused on real connection, not stiff posing.

Order the products that tell your family’s story — albums, folio boxes, or prints — all professionally crafted. Digital files are included in select collections.

Contact Me

Kind Words

  • Family posing under a wooden gazebo in a garden, with parents holding two children, surrounded by greenery and flowers.

    We have been long time fans of Armato Photography. They captured beautiful moments from our engagement, wedding, and showers so of course we asked them to take our first family photos. They were so patient working with us and our little ones and made it fun for everyone. Highly recommend!

    Kim L.

  • Black and white photo of a smiling family, with a man, woman, and child standing outside in front of a barn door.

    We did a family photo shoot with Armato Photography and we highly recommend them. They were professional and were also absolutely wonderful with our 2 year old son. The product was well done and we are very pleased with the overall experience and quality.

    Megan G.

  • Family portrait of six young adults posing on rocks in a park with trees and a stone lantern in the background.

    John and his wife are an amazing duo. They search out the perfect locations and take time to make sure that everyone is captured appropriately. It's the perfect mix between well orchestrated and impromptu.

    Charlotte G.

If you’ve been meaning to do this — this is your sign

Family portraits don’t need to be complicated to be meaningful. If you’re ready for natural, timeless images that reflect your family as you are now, I’d love to work with you.

start your session

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Yes — every step of the way.
    I guide you throughout the entire session, offering gentle direction for posing, movement, and expression so nothing feels awkward or forced. You don’t need to know what to do — that’s my job.

  • That’s completely normal — and expected.
    Sessions are relaxed and flexible, with time for kids to warm up naturally. I focus on connection and movement rather than stiff poses, which helps children feel comfortable and engaged.

  • I’ll help you with that.
    After booking, you’ll receive simple guidance on what photographs best — including colors, textures, and how to coordinate without matching exactly. The goal is timeless, not trendy.

  • Your finished gallery will be ready within 7-10 days of your session.
    You’ll be able to download your images directly and share them with family and friends.

  • Most family sessions last about 60 minutes.
    Newborn sessions are unhurried and baby-led, allowing plenty of time for feeding, soothing, and breaks as needed.

  • You’ll receive all of the final images from your session.
    There are no image limits, no packages to choose from, and no upsells. Every delivered image is professionally retouched and ready to download and share.

  • Yes — but only if you want them.
    Albums and folio boxes are available as optional add-ons after you’ve seen your images. There’s no pressure to purchase printed products.

  • Your session can take place at any of your favorite outdoor locations. Newborn sessions can take place in my home studio or in your home.