One of my favorite places to take families for pictures just outside of Bend is beautiful Smith Rock State Park! Most families I work with with either one kid, or young aged kids usually opt for a mini session, which is totally fine. But I love when I get the chance to do the full hour with a family because we can capture so much more with that extra time. There's time for your kid to find the stick that they want, or take longer warming up to me, or having extra minutes to explore an area then trying to push them through to max out our time. That's exactly what we did during this session and I don't think they or I have any regrets about the full hour! There are so many cute images to share here!

Brittinay and Adam really let Archer run the session, which I totally appreciate. Because if you push back when your kid(s) isn't quite ready yet, then we get a lot of resistance and it sets a negative tone from the start. There is something to be captured when you might feel like your kid should be looking and smiling at me. This session is a perfect example of how great the results are when you let your kids lead.

When we met, we were at the start of temperature dips and it was pretty windy but these guys were champions and dressed ready, and with sticks and dogs being walked along the trails little Archer was plenty distracted to not be bothered by the weather. Meanwhile I was in like 800 layers, I have toughened up a bit since this. My first real winter back after three in Hawaii, and I'm still adjusting lol.

I actually loved that this little guy wanted to walk the trails. Typically, I have one little area I stick to when I go to Smith Rock and this little guy even broke me out of my shell as we walked all over that park and took in the views and it was another reminder that kids can stop time and help you take in a moment.

This family was full of cuddles and group hugs and fun. And I think this little guy hardly even knew I was there. I loved the simplicity of the guys outfits and then the pop of color that Brittinay's dress added. These were a perfect fall color scheme. Thank you Shields family for a wonderful evening!