A Playful Fall Family Session at Red Bud Isle | The Louis Family
There’s something about late fall at Red Bud Isle that feels extra special. The leaves are at their peak, the light is soft and golden, and the river and tree roots create the kind of layered scenery that makes you want to slow down and take it all in.
The Louis family’s fall session took place in late November, right at that sweet spot when Red Bud Isle is showing off in the best way.
A Sweet Start
Some kids take time to warm up at the start of a session, but this little girl didn’t!
As soon as we met in the parking lot, their daughter reached out, took my hand, and walked with me all the way to the big tree where we’d start the session. Those little moments before the camera even comes out often tell me exactly how a session is going to feel, and her confident, trusting energy quickly set the tone for the rest of our time together.
When Kids Don’t Want to Sit Still (Because Most Don’t)
Their son, on the other hand, was not particularly interested in sitting for photos, which is incredibly normal! Most kids aren’t.
For sessions like this, I’m constantly balancing:
Short, cuddly posed moments
Movement, games, and walking together
Letting one child take a break while I focus on the other child with a parent
And for this shoot in particular, bribery by fruit snacks in between photos (for both kids 😉)
When We Let Kids Be Kids
One of my favorite moments came when their son proudly turned around with a stick up his nose — completely unbothered — while his parents cracked up laughing behind him. I caught their reactions as it happened, and those genuine laughs ended up being one of my favorite images from the gallery.
Letting the Landscape Speak
Artistically, this session was such a joy to edit. Red Bud Isle gave us so much to work with — towering trees, exposed roots, the river, and layers of fall foliage in every direction.
I always aim to include a mix of close, connected moments and pulled-back images that let the environment breathe.
Those wider shots tell the fuller story, not just who was there, but where they were and how it felt to be standing there together.
Real Families, Real Energy
This session is a perfect example of what I want families to see when they look through my work: your kids don’t need to behave perfectly. My job is to meet your family exactly where you are, read the room, and adapt. The result is a gallery that feels sweet, playful, and real, because that’s exactly what it was.
If this kind of playful, real-life energy feels like your family, I’d love to help you document it. You can inquire through the link below, or read more about my family sessions here.
Jessica
Wilding Photography
Jessica Wilding
Lifestyle Photographer
An Austin family photographer who creates images that are warm, connected, and true to your family. Whether you’re soaking up the last days of pregnancy, welcoming your newborn, or chasing toddlers through tall grass, I work with families and individuals who embrace both the chaos and the wonder of this season.
Blog Posts
