Family mini-sessions are some of the most exhausting but rewarding days as a photographer. One of the best mini-sessions I had this year was with the D family at McKee Botanical Gardens.
Karrie and Duane homeschool their two great kids, Reed and Hannah. They were joined by Karrie’s grandparents, Nana and Opa! Inviting your grandparents to the session always adds another layer of depth to the shoot. I’m so glad that they were able to come!
Opa is originally from Germany, and he met his wife in the United States. Their love was so sweet, and it was amazing to capture their tender moments together. Every look and touch was so full of affection!
The D family was so excited for their photo session. They knew that they would need a little extra time to get all the shots they wanted, so Kerrie wisely decided to book two timeslots instead of just one.
Normally, I don’t recommend bringing extended family to mini sessions just because we don’t have a ton of time, but booking two timeslots back to back made all the difference. Great call, mom!
I chose the McKee Botanical Gardens for my mini-sessions this time around because it really is one of the most magical places in Florida. However, since the gardens close early, we had to be mindful of the time. The bright sun and the presence of other visitors were challenges we navigated skillfully, and we were mindful to keep the walking to a minimum for Nana and Opa’s sake.
One of our best decisions was utilizing the outdoor kitchen area, which provided not only a beautiful setting but also much-needed shade. Its proximity to the entrance was a bonus, making it easier for Nana and Opa.
This spot turned out to be a goldmine for capturing some of the most heartwarming interactions—little moments of laughter, shared stories, squeezing hugs, and loving glances.
Whether it was the playful banter between Reed and Hannah or the gentle teasing shared by Nana and Opa, each photograph was a testament to the family's strong bond and joyous spirit.
Photographing the D family was an experience that reminded me why I love what I do. It was so much fun to bring these treasured moments to life through photos. Thanks for choosing me as your family photographer, and I hope to see you all again soon!