Last October, I met up with this family at the Arnold Arboretum in Roslindale, Massachusetts on an unseasonably warm afternoon!
Needham Family Photographer
This wonderful family of six lives in my town, and although I had never met them in person before our session, we have a number of mutual friends. After spending time with this family, I was struck by how comfortable I felt with them, and how down to earth they are — I can see why we have friends in common! Their oldest daughter, Claire, was about to get braces before the session, and Mom wanted to have some photos taken before that big event! And, of course, she wanted to capture the rest of the family, too, at this time in their lives.
I was so, so impressed with how well-behaved and easy-going the kids were. I know how hard it can be to keep children in line (with three of my own), so to watch everyone being so sweet, was awesome. These parents are certainly doing something right!
An Arnold Arboretum Autumn Family Portrait Session
The children started out a bit shy, but by the end of the session, they warmed up and were running around and playing. I’ve found that with young kids, it’s best to keep moving and treating the session like a playdate with a friend rather than a chore. I love the candid moments that come from playing—as opposed to me telling them to hold various poses for a long time — like this spontaneous sort of “follow the leader” image — I didn’t line them up, but they managed to get into a size/age lineup, with little Charlie leading the pack!
I think my favorite image from the whole session was at the very end when everyone came together for a group hug. It was such a sweet moment, and I love the smile on Charlie’s face!
Thank you to this super fun Needham family for asking me to capture your family. You have such beautiful warmth and love in your lives, and I am so honored to have captured it for you!
Cara Soulia is a photographer who specializes in colorful, fun and beautiful imagery of families. Needham family photo sessions available this fall. See more family photo sessions here, or get in touch to schedule your family’s photo session!