I’ve been photographing Frank, now, since he was 3 months old and there’s nothing that brings me more joy than chasing toddlers around outdoors. I know there are many people who would calling me crazy for that sentiment, but I’ve always loved this age group. Frank is just a couple of weeks older than my own son and shooting Jordan and Emily’s fall family photos at Eagle Creek Park felt just like my regular day-to-day life. We explored sticks and rocks and logs and leaves, we ran and jumped and played and snuggled. We did it all. And when I left, I was a little bummed that it was over. These three stayed on to do some hiking at the park, and I went home to my own family, only to return a short while later to do the same. It was the perfect start to the morning.
Our session was originally scheduled for the weekend before in the evening, but when the biggest wind storm of the year decided to take over that day, we pushed things back a bit. I wasn’t sure what the leaves were going to look like as we lost most of them during the storm, but I was so pleased to show up and have so much color still to work with. And the icing on the cake? Our starting location was covered in a thick fog when I pulled up. I know, I know, not what you’re typically hoping for, but as it was moving out at hyperspeed as the sun poked up and it gave us something unique to work with for the start of our session before the crisp colors appeared for the morning. I think I even oooohhhed and aahhhed out loud as I pulled up. It’s been a few years since I’ve had a chance to shoot some foggy-weather sessions and I was excited!
We took full advantage until the sun came up high enough to push us out of our spot and then headed for the woods. That’s the other wonderful thing about this time of year – shooting in the woods. All of the trees have lost their leaves? No problem. Go into the woods. There’s bound to be some left, and if not, a forest floor full of leaves will give you the illusion that you’re in the height of fall season. Not to mention, so.many.LOGS to climb on. It’s toddler heaven! As we wrapped things up, I followed Frank around as he explored and experimented and they’re some of my favorite shots of the year. There’s just nothing quite like toddler awe.
casey and her camera was voted one of the top Indianapolis Family Photographers by the Indy A-List. She specializes in couple, lifestyle, elopement, wedding and family photography for Indianapolis, Indiana and the surrounding areas.
