This family was one of the very first I ever photographed, and they’ve been one of my favorites ever since. Getting to see them every year and watch the kids grow up is one of the best parts of doing this for so long. So when they booked a fall session at Marcelle Vivrette Smith Park, I was excited.

Earlier this year someone asked me when I thought fall color would be at its best. Most people expect October, but I’ve found that early November is usually better around here. I was glad to be right this time. The long row of trees at Smith Park was bright gold the evening we were there, and I was so happy this family booked their session for the week the trees peaked.

It turns out I wasn’t the only one who had figured that out, though. The park was full of photographers. Every direction I turned, someone else was setting up a family on the grass or under the trees.

Working in a busy spot like that takes some patience. There’s a big rock bench tucked back in the tall grass that I love, and apparently a lot of other people have found it too. When we first walked up, someone was already there, so we moved on and came back later. Then we waited again while another family finished up. It all worked out, and I’m glad we stuck with it, because that spot is still one of my favorites.

The funny thing about putting that many photographers in one park is that we don’t all see it the same way. Everyone has their own favorite spots, and mine aren’t always the ones other people are using. We all like different light, too. I love a good backlit spot, with the sun coming in behind everyone and glowing through the trees and grass. Not everyone shoots that way, and that’s fine. It’s part of what makes each photographer’s work look like their own.

I’ve also noticed that I tend to start a little later than a lot of people. As other sessions were packing up, we were still going, and that’s the light I wait for. Right before sunset everything gets warm and soft, and to me it’s worth waiting for.

Thank you to this sweet family for trusting me with your photos all these years. I’m already looking forward to next time!