Back in the Darkroom + Family Fall Photography
FALL 2026
Behind & Beyond the Camera
I recently read about how the process of creating art is valuable all on its own. It requires problem solving and helps us practice patience and regulating emotions. And in a society so focused on results, and quick results, it’s good to remember the value in the process.
I’ve been enjoying the process this year is by spending time in the darkroom. I love the hands-on process of making photographs! It also reconnects me with my roots. I started with film, going on photo walks with my dad as a kid, and later working in the darkroom in college.
Left: Black & white prints made in the East Bay Photo Collective darkroom from a photoshoot earlier this year using expired color film. The film had shifted to a pretty blue color, so I decided to try printing it in black and white from the color negative. This is something that isn’t “supposed” to work, but I love the effect. This might only work with expired film that has faded to just a couple of colors, in this case blue and white. Pretty close to black and white!
This Season
As family fall portrait sessions get underway before the holidays, I have a couple of options to make scheduling easy:
Family Portrait Sessions — [link]
October 24th Mini Sessions — [link]
If you’re looking for a different date or time for a family portrait session, you’re always welcome to reach out to me directly. For your first session with me, I offer a free 15-minute Zoom consultation to meet briefly and talk over details. Sign up for a consultation here: [link]
Lately
Some of my favorite shoots this year have been Fresh 48 and Newborn sessions at UCSF Mission Bay, and SF City Hall weddings, where it really does feel like you’re getting married in a palace!
I’ve also really enjoyed taking short video clips and editing them together from different shoots and trips. You can check out some bike-camping and behind-the-scenes videos on my Instagram here: @shawnamccarrollphoto
Right: Fresh 48 portrait session at UCSF Mission Bay in San Francisco
Photoshoots at San Francisco City Hall are always busy and exciting! And it’s no wonder. This is one of the prettiest city halls in the country, and people travel from all over to have their photos taken here. So, did I mention it’s busy? And it’s only open during the week, but worth it!
See more photos here: [link]
Field Notes
Kids can be themselves during photoshoots. Some of my favorite photos happen when we give kids room to move, play, explore, and do the things they naturally like to do.
We can still get that classic portrait of everyone looking at the camera and smiling together, but we don’t have to stop there. Photoshoots that are loosely guided and follow the energy and personality of the people in front of the camera, tend to feel the most alive, relaxed, and true to you. See more family sessions here: [link]