a renfrew park family picnic session

I spent a gorgeous day at the park with Abby, Dale and their two beautiful girls, Emma + Cora. Abby’s mom had previously purchased a gift card for her and when they came down for a weekend from Pittsburgh to visit, is made a perfect opportunity to use it. They haven’t had professional family photos taken since Cora was born, so we definitely needed to update! Renfrew Park served as the perfect backdrop for this sweet families session.

When Abby + Dale first arrived, I met them at the car since both girls had fallen asleep during the ride and were just waking up. I leaned in, said hi and almost nine-month-old Cora immediately started smiling from ear to ear. She is seriously the happiest baby I have ever met! Abby said she is like that all the time! I knew right then we were going to have a blast at our session.

Abby and I spoke leading up to the day about bringing some of Emma + Cora’s favorites. She had a big blanket, a picnic basket full of snacks and the girls favorite activities – books and bubbles! The girls thought it was play time the entire shoot which made our time together a breeze.

When it was time to capture Emma and her mom, she beamed with excitement! One of the things I love about working with children is how genuine every emotion is. They aren’t completely self aware yet and can express exactly how they’re feeling without hesitation. That’s exactly what Emma did when she climbed in her mom’s lap. She couldn’t stop snuggling, giving Abby kisses and throwing her head back in happiness. Her smile was so big and bright. It’s obvious she just love, love, LOVES her momma!

I finished the session by getting some amazing alone shots of Abby + Dale, something we weren’t sure we’d be able to do. However, the girls were perfectly content. The blanket and snacks on hand allowed us to step to the side and capture the two of them together. At one point, I asked Dale to whisper one thing he loved about Abby in her ear. Instantly they both started laughing! Little did I know, throughout their relationship asking this question has been sort of a little inside joke. I was able to capture the most genuine smiles on both their faces because of this – all I really wanted! It’s always so amazing to me how sometimes what seems like the smallest thing can have the biggest impact on a session!

Abby + Dale, I had so much fun at the park with your family. Just looking back at your infectious smiles has me grinning as big as Cora!

-xo-

Jamie