Emily Lucarz

I’m Emily, a family photographer with a laid back and flexible style that comes from years of working with children and newborns. I like to focus on the unexpected and the chaotic (the usual for families, life or well, just about anyone). The best part? When your favorite photos are pulled right out from the middle of that chaos.

Yes, there will be the “grandma shots” with everyone looking at the camera. But it’s the unexpected photos that weren’t on your list that often become the favorites. I’ll be there to guide and capture the natural, unscripted moments as they happen. Just you wait.


“Together, we’ll establish an atmosphere of connection and genuine fun.”

The sessions are upbeat and I’ll ensure that you,
your little ones — and the dog :) — are engaged and having fun!

My love of people and inclination for natural, happy-go-lucky interactions helped me create the approach you see here. (And probably my husband’s extraordinary thoughtfulness when it comes to responding to our client emails.)

That approach includes doing everything possible to free you of stress or doubt. The detailed planning I help with ahead of time is key, but families also appreciate that during the actual sessions, I’m flexible and laid back. This helps us capture the moments that normally can’t be documented, but that describe you and your family to a T.

After every session, and as I hand-edit the photos, my dogs are often caught catching some shut-eye by the foot of my desk (somehow unaffected by my overflowing enthusiasm that is woven into each day — and when the time calls — photo sessions too).



The Proven Philosophy

These are the parts of life that I just can’t get enough of

These are the people and spaces (in addition to the boys) who let me end every day feeling supported, and in line with my mission — to help you, one day, to look back over the years and feel like you truly took time to connect and just have fun with one another.

Meet The Team

The studio

Joey + Lola

kenny Lucarz

Emily Lucarz

Yes, the bulldogs absolutely needed to be listed here

Tyler + Zach

Socialize

Opera major turned speech pathologist and now an award-winning photographer, I’ve spent the last decade building a five-star reputation and signature style. I’ve taught photographers around the world on renowned platforms like CreativeLive. At one point, I worked closely with Nikon, taking family photos for their marketing materials. Most of the time, though, I’m here in our St. Louis photography studio, at an outdoor shoot, or attending our kids’ sports games. My next trip planned? It’s probably one that lets me take advantage of our rental in Inlet Beach, Florida!

Emily Lucarz

Founder, Educator + Photographer

While I might talk quickly, Kenny is the one who is fast to respond (but still well-paced and well-rounded with his replies). He keeps sessions running smoothly, facilitating bookings and inquiries. And yes, he has been Employee Of The Year 7 years running.

Kenny Lucarz

Admin + Client Communications Manager

A beautiful and inviting studio filled with natural light, and surrounded by bright, all-white walls and floors, I schedule most of my mini sessions and shoots in this conveniently located studio.

Learn More

The Studio

All-white St. Louis photography studio

Joey likes to show off his bottom teeth and invade your personal space — he can be a bit much (zoomies galore) but we wouldn’t change him one bit! Lola is our beautiful bulldog rescue. She, unlike Joey, can be shy at first, but once you’re in, you’re in! She will position herself in just the right place for optimal pets, pawing until she’s received enough love.

Joey + Lola

The dogs!

Tyler is the typical first-born who is organized, kind to everyone and who tolerates his goofy brother. He’s an avid golfer too. Tyler lost his eyesight in one eye and his resilience amazes us. Zach, his younger brother, keeps us on our toes. His life can easily be described as “organized chaos” and he has a love for soccer, baseball and hanging out with his friends. His favorite food is burgushi (what it sounds like — burger-style sushi).

Tyler + Zach

The boys!

A piano player and at one point, an opera major.

Music 

No. 03  /

A boy mom, and lots of baseball, soccer and golf! (And of course, Coach Kenny for baseball)

Memory Making

No. 02  /

Lover of new places and people, and that excitement you get from seeing something for the first time.

Traveling

No. 01  /

A Lifetime Of Inspirations

A people-loving entrepreneur, Enneagram 7, lover of sunsets (and owner of a gorgeous all-white studio). More importantly, a sunshine-savoring storyteller and a family photographer whose own story began with adoption.

Templates + Presets For Families + Photographers

Newborn Photography in St. Louis


St. Louis Senior Pictures

Family Photography Sessions

The first question I’m usually asked? Where I went to high school. And yes, it’s 10 minutes from where I live and take photos now in St. Louis. Although, I went to college in Chicago and married a Cubs fan (whoops).

— Devin 

A treasure. So happy she has documented our family's life for the last 5+ years and counting.”

Fave Resources That You’ll Love Too


Your Next 30A Vacation Rental (we did a thing!) — Meet “The View At Inlet Beach”