Highland Park was looking particularly beautiful this day. It’s always fun to shoot there, with so many rolling hills and wooded spots to choose from, it reminds me why it’s important to keep natural spaces in the city. I met with this adorable family for some photos and had so much fun taking pictures.

It was their first time as a family being photographed, the first time since the wedding that they had done anything like this, so the pressure was on! Actually, I love the chance to document that first shoot back. It typically has been put off and thought about for a long time, how it would or wouldn’t work until finally for some reason plans are made and set in motion. I like to show people that it doesn’t have to be a perfect session where everyone sits quietly and does exactly what you say, in fact it’s fun to capture the personality and energy of kids and I keep challenging myself with creative ways to keep them occupied and enjoying the shoot. People are usually surprised to see what I documented – both the still moments and little details that they didn’t notice. So, take a look and I hope you enjoy – don’t they make being a family look like so much fun? :)

yes! these kids are too much and running around their parents was exactly what they needed to get out some energy before being captured and tickled!