A Sweet Family Session at Willamette Mission Park

December 13, 2023

When it comes to capturing precious family moments, a family session can become a cherished experience. Recently, I had the privilege of documenting the love and joy of a long time friend’s family at Willamette Mission State Park. Ashley and I go all the way back to kindergarten when we first met! We went all through elementary school and high school together. So it was such a joy for me to see her family and all of her sweet kiddos!

Willamette Mission State Park was gorgeous on this early September day for this family session. With its sprawling landscapes and scenic trails this park provided a natural canvas for capturing some fun moments of this growing family. The lush greenery and the soft, golden glow of the sun added a touch of magic to the atmosphere.

Highlights

One of the highlights of this session was witnessing the boundless energy and contagious enthusiasm of Ashley’s little ones. From toddling steps to gleeful giggles, each frame encapsulated the essence of childhood. The park’s open spaces allowed the kids to explore and play freely. This resulted in authentic and heartwarming moments that reflected the unique personalities of each child. I love letting the little ones roam and be themselves during portions of the session. This allows me to capture them naturally and allows them to run out some energy and be more cooperative for the posed images!

While posed portraits have their own charm, some of the most captivating images emerged from the candid moments. Whether it was the parents stealing a quiet glance or all the laughter, these unscripted moments quickly became my favorite.

This experience was a reminder that amidst life’s hustle and bustle, taking the time to capture these fleeting moments can create memories that will be cherished for a lifetime. In the end, it’s not just about the photographs; it’s about the stories they tell and the emotions they evoke—a testament to the enduring beauty of family.