Captured Forever Photography - Kelsey Ulmer

11/03/2025

For today only — your gift goes twice as far. 💛

I’m personally matching all donations (up to $500 total) for Captured Forever Photography’s 1st Annual Full Table Fundraiser to support Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County.

With food prices still high and recent cuts to SNAP (food assistance) benefits, more families than ever are struggling to meet even their most basic needs. Local food banks are doing everything they can — and that’s where we can help.

Your donation today helps fill local food pantries and ensure no one has to worry about putting food on the table this season.
Food banks can often turn $1 into 3 meals, which means your gift today could provide double the meals — 6 for every $1 donated.

Even just a $10 donation goes a long way! You can donate directly to Second Harvest Food Bank here: https://together.feedoc.org/team/782771

And if you want to go even bigger, you can still create your own team and compete for the $700 Captured Forever Photography gift certificate that will go to the top fundraiser at the end of November.

See full details here: https://www.capturedforever.com/blog/1st-annual-full-table-fundraiser

Let’s show up for our village, together. 🧡

02/24/2025

Some days, I can’t wait for them to grow—to see who they’ll become, to hear the funny things they’ll say, to watch them run ahead, full of confidence and independence. But then I look at these tiny feet, and I want time to just stop.
Because right now…

🍼 They fit perfectly in the palm of my hand.
🛏️ They curl up against me when they sleep.
🥹 They haven't yet walked away—they still need me for everything.

Motherhood is this constant push and pull—wanting them to grow, yet aching for them to stay little. Wanting the next milestone, yet grieving the ones that have already passed.

One day, these tiny feet will run, climb, and dance. And one day, they’ll walk into the world on their own. But today? They are still small. And I am still their world.
Tell me, mamas—what’s one little thing about your baby you wish you could freeze in time? 💛

07/31/2024

🍁 Announcing My 2024 Orange County Fall Mini Sessions! 🍁

Fall is here, and it's the perfect time to capture those warm, cozy moments with your loved ones! This year, we're offering a variety of beautiful locations for our Orange County Fall Minis, including new parks with vibrant fall colors, the historic charm of Mission San Juan Capistrano, and a cozy indoor studio in Huntington Beach.

Each mini session includes:

📸 A 15-25 minute photoshoot ( length depends on location )
📸 Free digital downloads of 20+ edited images
📸 A perfect setting to capture your family's fall memories

These sessions are quick, affordable, and a fantastic way to update your family photos with the stunning backdrop of autumn.

✨ Limited Availability! ✨
These fall mini sessions are filling up quickly, so don't wait! Secure your spot today and make this season unforgettable.

Click the link to book your session now:

Capture your family's unique story with our 2024 mini sessions. Book now for beautifully crafted portraits that will be cherished forever.

07/08/2024

🌟 Why Summer is the Perfect Time for Extended Family Photos! 🌟

Summer is here, and it's the ideal season to gather your loved ones for a memorable extended family photo session! 🌞✨ Here’s why:

Beautiful Weather: With sunny skies and warm temperatures, summer offers the perfect backdrop for outdoor photos. Whether it's at the beach, a park, or your own backyard, the natural light creates stunning, vibrant images.

Family Gatherings: Summer often means family reunions, vacations, and gatherings. It's the perfect opportunity to get everyone together for a photo session that captures the joy and connection of your family.

Flexible Schedules: Kids are out of school, and many people take time off work during the summer. This makes it easier to coordinate and schedule a session that works for everyone.

Creating Memories: Extended family photos are a wonderful way to preserve memories and celebrate your family's unique bond. It's not just about the pictures; it's about the experience of being together and creating something special.

Don't miss out on this perfect season to capture your family's love and togetherness. DM me to book your summer family photo session today! 📸❤️

06/19/2024

Gloomy day at the beach? No problem.

Check out more from this beach session on the blog!

https://www.capturedforever.com/blog/a-family-photoshoot-at-little-corona-beach-in-corona-del-mar

06/03/2024

🌟 Curious about what an in-studio maternity session looks like? 🌟

Check out my latest blog post for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at a stunning maternity photoshoot at Spark Studios in Huntington Beach! 📸💖

From the elegant latte hourglass dress to the heartwarming bond between mom and daughter, this session is filled with timeless beauty and emotion. Discover why Spark Studios is my go-to for capturing these precious moments in Orange County.

Ready to be inspired? Click the link to see the beautiful photos and read more! 👇

https://www.capturedforever.com/blog/capturing-timeless-elegance-a-studio-maternity-session-at-spark-studios-in-orange-Elisha Vasquez San Diego, And Riverside County Realtor

Discover the timeless elegance of a studio maternity photoshoot in Orange County. Learn why Captured Forever is the top choice for studio maternity photography in Orange County and get inspired for your own session. Read more to see the breathtaking photos and get tips for your maternity photoshoot.

05/31/2024

Sometimes you just gotta embrace the chaos! 😂

This family photoshoot was full of giggles, wild energy, and maybe a sprinkle of meltdowns (it happens to the best of us!). But hey, that's what makes these memories so real, right? 😉

Here at Captured Forever Photography, I'm all about capturing the authentic moments of parenthood, even the messy ones. Because let's be honest, those are often the times we laugh the hardest and cherish the most.

Here are some tips for capturing authentic moments during your family photoshoot:

Let loose and have fun! Don't worry about getting everything perfect. The most important thing is to capture the genuine connection between you and your loved ones.

Be playful and silly! Kids (and adults!) feed off of energy, so let your loose side shine.
Embrace the unexpected. Sometimes the best photos are the ones that aren't posed or planned.

Don't be afraid of a little chaos. It's all part of the beauty of family life!

I hope this helps! And if you're looking for a family photographer in the Orange County area, be sure to shoot me a DM! I would love to capture your family's authentic moments, even if its a little crazy

04/09/2024

Exciting news, everyone! Did you know that I now offer a special package for first birthday sessions? These quick, simple, and fun sessions are the perfect way to capture all the excitement of turning one!

This package includes simple birthday decor to add a festive touch to your photo session. You're also welcome to bring your own decorations to personalize the session even more! And let's not forget about your little one's favorite toys—bringing along some beloved toys can add an extra dose of joy and personality to the photos.

Trust me, you won't want to miss capturing those adorable moments, like when this kiddo couldn't get enough of his toothbrush—it made for the cutest shots!

Don't let these precious memories slip away—book your first birthday session today

03/26/2024

Motherhood is nothing short of miraculous—a journey of strength, resilience, and boundless love. As I reflect on this maternity session, I'm reminded of the incredible capabilities of the birthing body and the profound beauty of bringing new life into the world. It's a journey filled with moments of sheer wonder and joy, but also challenges that test our resolve and push us to our limits. Yet, amidst the struggles of pregnancy, the early postpartum days, and all the days after, there's an undeniable sense of pride that wells up within me.

Every stretch mark, every ache, and every moment of discomfort, every trauma is a testament to the remarkable journey of motherhood—a journey that I wouldn't trade for anything in the world. From the miracle of conception via IVF to the incredible feat of childbirth, I'm in awe of all that my body has accomplished. It's the hardest thing I've ever done, but it's also the most rewarding. And when I think of all the things my body has done, I can't help but feel an overwhelming sense of pride—it truly is the coolest thing I will ever do.

I'm filled with gratitude for the privilege of experiencing this incredible journey of motherhood, not just as a mom myself, but through this beautiful job of mine where I get to witness this beauty and strength on a daily basis.

02/27/2024

Embracing the In-Between: Why I Adore Photographing Babies Older Than the Newborn Stage

1️⃣ Pure Sweetness: From their chubby cheeks to their infectious smiles, babies in this stage exude pure sweetness that melts my heart every time I pick up my camera.

2️⃣ Curiosity & Wonder: Capturing those moments of wide-eyed wonder and curiosity as they explore their world fills me with joy. Every discovery is a photo-worthy moment waiting to be captured.

3️⃣ Precious Transitions: As they navigate the transition from being newborns to becoming independent explorers, there's a magical in-between stage where they're still so tiny yet bursting with personality, making for beautifully candid and authentic photos.

These early months are fleeting but oh-so-memorable! Let's freeze these precious moments in time together. 🌟💕

02/23/2024

Embracing the Beautiful Chaos: Maternity Sessions with a Toddler! 📸✨

From bump to baby, this journey has been nothing short of magical. Welcoming back this incredible family for another chapter in their story fills my heart with joy! With a toddler in tow, this maternity session looks a little different that the first, but one thing remains the same - it's all about the fun! 💕 Capturing the laughter, the love, and the adorable antics as they await their newest addition is what makes these moments truly special.

02/22/2024

I love a good pregnancy announcement!!

Join me in giving a huge CONGRATULATIONS to Brandon & Kayla! And for a little fun leave a comment with your best parenting advice!

I'll go first: Everything is temporary. When things are really hard, remember that it is temporary and it will pass. When things are beautiful & joyful, remember that time moves quickly and to savor it as much as you can. There will be many ups and downs, but it is an incredible journey!