Every year or so, the Ford family carves out a little time to update their family photos and every time, I leave their session smiling. There’s just something warm and familiar about the whole experience. It could be the way they naturally fall into rhythm in front of the camera, or the fact that they always choose their own little slice of paradise: a spot tucked right along the Lemhi River.

This summer session was no different. hot, bright, and buzzing (and not just from energy… the mosquitoes came out in full force). Allee, bless her heart, was practically a buffet for the bugs. I’m still laughing thinking about her dramatic retelling of each bite. She’s a trooper though—gave us her best smile even while swatting!

What made this session extra special was the visit from Olivia and Charlie. They traveled all the way from Sequim, Washington to spend time with family and if you know me, you know I love Sequim. I’ve got family there myself and have visited more than once. The Olympic mountains, the water... it’s dreamy. So when they show up with their calm and easy-going energy, it’s like bringing a little bit of that Pacific Northwest vibe with them.

As for their little one, Sawyer, he’s at that perfect age where we can start to sneak in games, gentle tickles, and little adventures to capture those in-between moments. The giggles. The sideways glances. The full-body toddler joy. We don’t have to force much; just give him a little room to explore and he gives us magic.

That brings me to something I’ve learned (and leaned into) over the years: there is a bit of a formula when it comes to photographing families, especially with little ones involved. But it’s not stiff or structured—it’s more like a dance.

That brings me to something I’ve come to believe after years of photographing families, there’s a rhythm to these sessions. Not a rigid checklist, but more like a favorite recipe passed down through generations. You start with the base, the familiar, foundational shots.

Then you add the ingredients that make it personal: the way mom tucks a strand of hair behind her daughter’s ear, the way dad lifts the littlest one into the air without thinking. Once we’ve mixed in enough movement and play, I sprinkle in those candid moments—tickles, whispers, maybe a chase through the grass if the light is right. .

That’s the heart of it. My sessions are part planning, part patience… and a whole lot of love.

Every family brings their own rhythm, and the Fords? They’ve got it down. It’s about connection, not perfection. Their sessions never feel rushed. They’re comfortable. They trust the process and maybe that’s why their photos always turn out full of warmth and personality.

This summer day was no exception.