Mother’s Day is coming up, and in honor of that holiday, I wanted to share one of my favorite sessions. This one was taken in Elk Grove, just south of Sacramento, at Jack E. Hill Park.  My dear friend and her son were in town when she booked me for a special mommy and me photo shoot. (Note that these were taken in the summer before the recent rainfall, which is why the grass is dry. :))

This 2 year old had such a playful spirit about him. Although 2 year olds are never predictable, A. listened so well and was just fine adventuring around the park with his mommy. Picking up sticks, wandering along the trails, and exploring the textures of grass and landscape were fun for the little guy.

It’s often hard for clients to tell how well a session is going, especially with kids not cooperating like parents think they should be. But, for me, I think the best moments come from photographing kids when they are not forcing a pose or a cheesy smile. It’s the natural moments that arise, the connectedness that surfaces in portraits, that speak to me the most. Parents are often surprised at how their galleries turn out — instead of chaos, they see the true beauty of their children they know so well.

Jack Hill Park is a location I frequent because there are a variety of spots to shoot at, the scenery changes every season, and it’s a safe spot for photo shoots. From looking through my portfolio you actually wouldn’t know some of my sessions were taken at this same park. Each family makes it their own.

Here are more photos from the session.

To book a Mother’s Day shoot, or a mommy and me session anytime, get in touch! We can start planning a session for you and your babies.