As a photographer, I’m always looking for great new spots for photo shoots. Something with beautiful light and interesting features but that is easily accessible for families with little ones or my maternity clients. Sometimes I just happen to drive by a location. Sometimes I see it when I’m out exploring with my own kids. But sometimes I see a photo online and then use my internet detective skills to narrow down the location, check out a satellite view via google maps, and then venture out to discover it in person. The latter is what I did for this beautiful location in a Mentor Marsh. Perfect for a family session with a pregnant mama and two busy kiddos! And of course dad. Dads seem to always prefer a less complicated location close to the car.

I always try to get the “posed photo” part of the session out of the way first. This is especially true when I am photographing a family with young children. Why? Because even though the candid shots are usually some of my favorite, it is great to have those traditional shots too. They are always grandma’s favorite and are often the portraits that make it up on the walls in your home. I do them first because the kiddos probably got a prepped in the car on the way to meet me. The reminder that they are supposed to smile, look at the camera, and listen to the photographer. This is often fresh on their minds. At this point we are just getting to know each other and they are still warming up to me. That is easier to do with a little structure.

The long, empty boardwalk was just too irresistible a runway for this little guy! He took advantage of it every chance he got. Good thing a happy, running child makes for great photos!

This photo might not make it up on the wall but the laughter and smiles brought on by a little nose picking definitely makes for a great memory!

Sibling love! Or maybe she was just trying to be the responsible oldest sibling and hold her brother in place for a photo? You be the judge!