A first-time client, a playful evening, and even the family dog joined in
Every once in a while I get to hear exactly how someone found me, and this one made me smile.
This sweet family first discovered me through a flyer I had included in swag bags at the Sunflower Sprouts children’s consignment event. Later, while searching online, mom asked ChatGPT for family photographers and my name appeared again. Hearing that was honestly exciting. This was the first time someone had found me through AI, and it made our Hartwood Acres family session feel even more special.
We met at Hartwood Acres during peak fall color for their first session with me. They brought their two young boys, who arrived full of energy and curiosity about everything around them. Instead of trying to contain that energy, we built the session around it.
Mom had mentioned she loved natural, candid photographs, so we focused on interaction. The boys played with their parents, ran through the grass, and laughed together. We spent very little time asking them to stand still. The goal was connection, not perfection.
Near the end of the evening, their family dog joined us, which always adds another layer of personality to a session. The kids relaxed even more, and some of the sweetest moments came from those final minutes together.
Sessions like this are exactly why I love photographing families outdoors. Hartwood Acres gives children space to move and allows real moments to happen naturally. This Hartwood Acres family session captured not just how everyone looked this year, but how they interact and enjoy being together.
If you’re thinking about family portraits in Pittsburgh, Hartwood Acres is always a wonderful fall location. You can also view another recent session here. For park details and seasonal hours, visit the official Hartwood Acres park page.
