There’s something about the way the willow branches sway in the afternoon light; soft, golden, almost like they’re whispering secrets to the wind. Every time I pull up to this spot, it feels like stepping into a storybook.
4:15 PM – Gear, Snacks, and Golden Hour Prep
Afternoons in my house are a whirlwind of last-minute checks: batteries charged, memory cards cleared (I'm pretty sure I check to make sure they are formatted a billion times), camera bag packed (then unpacked to triple-check), and just enough time to wrangle a few snacks for the road (and clients!). Because let’s be honest, no matter how short the session snacks are always a good idea. Hopefully I am out the door by 4:50! Wonder what's in my go bag? Lens wipes, extra battery, extra SD card, more snacks, baby wipes, first aid kit, toys, silly hats, bug spray, bobby pins, and a lint roller!
5:15 PM – The Calm Before the Magic
I arrive a little early to the willows. It’s quiet. Peaceful. The light is starting to soften, filtering through the trees in that dreamy, golden way that makes my photographer heart skip a beat. I take a few deep breaths, maybe snap a quick photo of the setting itself (because it's just that pretty), and get ready. I'll also walk around, looking through the view finder, to see what angles I like, what distractions I see (and want to avoid), and watch and where the light is filtering through. I am also prepping the scene, such as removing sticks - I'd much rather remove these now than when I go to edit. Editing me will thank me later :).
5:30 PM – Let the Session Begin
My clients arrive and just like that, the magic unfolds. Kids run barefoot through the grass. Parents laugh and steal quiet glances. The light wraps around them like a warm hug. I guide them with gentle prompts, but really? These sessions are all about connection and presence, those little in-between moments where love lives.
Over the next hour or so, I photograph several families (if mini session), each one bringing their own rhythm, their own energy. Some come dressed in flowing dresses, others in rolled-up jeans and bare feet. Every session is different, but the feeling is the same: peaceful, playful, beautiful.
6:45 PM – Heart Full, Camera Full
The sun dips lower. The willows cast long, graceful shadows. I tuck my gear away with a full memory card, one bar of battery left, and a full heart. These are the kinds of sessions that don’t just capture images; they capture a season. A feeling. A moment in time.
Back home, I begin the editing process - reliving the laughter, the soft sunlight, the quiet tenderness tucked into every frame. After that comes the sneak peeks - it’s one of my favorite parts of the job.
Under the Willows minis are short, sweet, and soaked in golden hour light. They’re perfect for families who want meaningful images without the stress of a long session or the chill of winter minis.
Thinking about booking next time they roll around? Make sure you’re following me on Facebook and IG. These spots tend to go fast!
Curious what the photos look like? Scroll through the gallery below!
