This Descanso family session took place right in the family’s own backyard, and it was such a fun and personal way to document this season of their life together. Their property, tucked away near the Cleveland National Forest, has everything you’d want for a fall family session: golden hills in the background, lots of trees, and that rustic, wide open feel that’s hard to find closer to the city. We planned their photo session for golden hour in mid-November, and the light could not have been better.

One of my favorite parts of doing family sessions at home is how comfortable everyone feels in a space that’s already familiar. This family played baseball together, explored their garden, and piled into a hammock together near the end. Their two dogs were happily roaming around the whole time and, of course, made plenty of appearances in the photos.

Choosing to do your session at home is such a great way to document your family in a place that holds so much meaning. It also gives you the freedom to move, play, and be yourselves, which always makes for the best kind of photos.

If you’re thinking of a family photo session and want it to feel natural, relaxed, and personal, an at home session like this one in Descanso might be the perfect fit. Head on over to my contact page and let’s start planning!