The B Family | Fall Photos at Gibson Ranch

Although I’ve known this family for years, it was my first time photographing them - and we had a lot of fun!

I like to start photo sessions with some type of movement - generally holding hands and walking toward me. The act of walking or skipping or dancing seems to help people relax.

Family hugs with a bit of tickling thrown in works wonders for eliciting genuine smiles and laughter.

Gibson Ranch Regional Park was the perfect setting for their fall photos.

I always try to take individual photos of the kids because oftentimes parents prefer them to school photos.

Before each session, I email a short questionnaire to my client. While clients are not required to respond, when they do, I learn so much about them and their family members - and I’m better prepared for their photo session because I already know WHO they want me to photograph (and their preferred groupings) as well as which poses they love and which poses they do NOT love.

Brian’s parents were in town, so they joined in for a few photos, too. I love when multiple generations carve out time to take group photos. And this family was smart - Take photos for 45 minutes and then enjoy a meal together at a nearby restaurant. Sounds like a fun Friday night to me!