A FALL FAMILY SESSION WITH THE COOKS
This past weekend, I (along with Adam) had the pleasure of capturing a fall family session with long-time clients and friends, Tanner and Holly Cook, along with their two beautiful daughters, Violet and Penelope. It’s hard to believe I’ve personally been photographing this family for a decade! From engagement photos to the births of their girls, and each family sessions here and there, it’s truly been a joy watching their family grow. These sessions have become a tradition (sans pandemic), each one telling a new chapter of their story.
This year’s session was particularly special. Fall colors were at their peak, painting the trees in vibrant shades of gold, red, and orange. However, the weather had a mind of its own—it was rainy, drizzly, and wet. While some might view these conditions as a challenge, Tanner, Holly and Adam and I saw them as a unique opportunity. The rain added an enchanting atmosphere to the fall landscape, giving everything a fresh, dewy glow and making the colors pop even more… and as you know Adam and I are always up for an adventure.
The Cooks arrived looking effortlessly stylish in warm, autumnal tones that beautifully complemented the natural surroundings. We event snagged Tanner and Holly a couple of headshots. Violet and Penelope were full of energy and laughter, undeterred by the weather. They eagerly posed for pictures, which added an authentic touch to the photos. Their personalities truly shone through, with Violet’s shy yet sweet smile contrasting with Penelope’s hesitant giggles. Photographing siblings always brings out some of the most candid and heartwarming moments, and these two were no exception.
The rain created a stunning backdrop, softening the light and creating a natural filter that gave the photos an almost ethereal quality. Raindrops on leaves and puddles on the ground reflected the vibrant colors around us, making each shot feel rich and textured. Capturing the Cooks’ warmth and connection against this dramatic setting felt like something out of a storybook.
As always, it was a joy working with Tanner and Holly, who have developed a natural ease in front of the camera over the years. Their comfort and trust allowed us to capture intimate moments, like the way Holly held Penelope close when we first started and she was a bit unsure of what was going on or Tanner playfully lifting Violet in the air to make her laugh. Their love as a family radiates and Tanner and Holly’s connection as a couple is palpable. It was an honor to capture those small, unscripted moments that make family sessions so meaningful.
As our time came to an end, I couldn’t help but reflect on the years I’ve spent documenting this family’s journey. Watching Tanner and Holly’s girls grow up has been such a privilege, and I am grateful for the trust they’ve placed in me to capture these moments year after year. This session, with its cozy layers, shared laughter, and the rain-soaked fall colors, perfectly encapsulated the beauty of the season and the joy of family.
These are the moments that matter most: the shared smiles, the playful splashes, and the warmth of family on a chilly fall day.
Photography by Black Moon Media, LLC
Location: Hartman Memorial Park
