Photography has always touched my adventurous spirit, and I love working in new locations. While I typically do my family sessions in Pasadena and Los Angeles, I was excited to photograph my long-time clients, Emily and Tim and their kids in Bend, Oregon, this summer.

I had the best time photographing their wedding in 2017, and it’s been wonderful to see their family grow since then. For our session, we went to Sawyer Park, a lovely location along the river that I chose for its pine trees, winding trails, lawn, beautiful lava rock, and gorgeous light.

My favorite way to capture families is in action and play, and this family was so much fun! The sprawling green lawn became the perfect playground for running, spinning, jumping, and tumbling together in a loving pile. This was the perfect place to highlight the family’s lighthearted spirit. One of my favorite moments of the session was when the family all came together for a group hug, which is something they do regularly at the end of their day. Being let in on these beautiful traditions and capturing them is why I love photographing families so much!

I truly enjoyed this family photoshoot and hope these images bring a smile to your face. I travel to Bend several times a year, so if you need photos there, or if you’re considering a shoot in Southern California, feel free to reach out!

This was a two-hour session, so if you’re looking for a relaxing shoot with plenty of time to run and play, and your family is up for it, consider booking a longer session. It will give you a great variety of images!

Scroll to the end to comment with your latest favorite travel moment, and sign up for my mailing list to receive the latest news and special offers!

If you’re viewing on a mobile devise, please turn horizontally for the best formatting experience!

View more family photos

One of our favorite things to do when my mom comes to visit is road trip. I was feeling called to the desert so I planned a trip for us to check out Anza Borrego State Park. By a wonderful stroke of luck, our trip lined up with an explosion of wildflowers. Because of the wet winter, the California desert is experiencing a super bloom that was in it's full glory during our visit.

The whole region had a sweet smell to it. I've never experienced anything like it!

It sounds like the low elevation bloom has already peaked at Anza Borrego, but if you want to chase some wildflowers of your own, it's not too late! The bloom starts in the South and travels North. There are gorgeous poppies in Antelope Canyon and I'd imagine Joshua Tree is still going strong. Check out the wildflower report: desertusa.com/wildflo/ca.html

I find such inspiration being in nature. I've realized how important it is for me to get outside explore and have started to prioritize it over the last few years.

Most of these photos were taken around Borrego Springs area. We also did an incredible slot canyon hike called "The Slot" that I highly recommend.

A special thank you to my mom for her unwavering sense of adventure (and bonus points for getting up at dawn and helping with self-portraits).

Thanks for following along, and I hope you have a chance to play outside this week!