There’s something truly special about photographing families with young kids—especially boys. The Trusnovec family reminded me why I love what I do.

Their session landed on a day where the sky couldn’t quite make up its mind. Rain had been off and on for hours, and we kept one eye on the forecast all afternoon. But we stuck to the plan, hoping for a break—and I’m so glad we did. Just as our session time rolled around, the clouds parted, the light softened, and everything lined up beautifully.

I met up with Abby, Cole, and their boys, Chris and Matt, ready for a laid-back family session. I had first met them nearly a year earlier at Abby’s sister Natalie’s wedding—a hot, sunny, joy-filled day that ended with nearly the entire bridal party jumping into the river. That kind of energy? Unforgettable. So I was thrilled when Abby reached out for family photos.

Now, photographing boys like Chris and Matt is never dull—and I wouldn’t want it to be. They were full of energy, curiosity, and that perfect level of chaos. Boys at this age aren’t built to sit still and smile sweetly on command. They want to explore, run, play, find the muddiest spot possible, and laugh at things like fart jokes—and I’m here for all of it.

Family sessions with young kids are never meant to be rigid. They’re meant to reflect real life, personality, connection, and fun. With boys especially, it’s about leaning into the movement and noise and letting them lead a little. I always try to meet kids where they are. If that means racing them across a field or making silly faces to get a genuine laugh, I’ll do it. Because when a child feels safe, seen, and comfortable, that’s when the magic happens.

Chris and Matt surprised me in the best ways. They listened, they smiled, they ran wild—and they came right back. We got laughter, a little mischief, and a whole lot of love. And let’s just say, there was no shortage of giggles fueled by sibling antics and well-timed jokes. It was the kind of session that flies by before you know it because you’re having too much fun to check the clock.

And Cole? He powered through like a champ. I always say the true measure of a successful family session is not just getting great photos, but leaving with everyone still speaking to each other—and smiling. I think Abby left feeling relieved (and hopefully a little proud) that her family session was not only successful but full of moments she’ll love looking back on.

These are the sessions that remind me: family photos aren’t just about posing perfectly. They’re about capturing the real, the messy, the playful—the beautiful moments in between. And this session had all of that and more.