A Golden Hour Creekside Session with the Gammage Family
There’s something extra magical about watching a little one throw rocks into a creek while the sun dips behind the trees. Maybe it’s the way the water ripples. Maybe it’s the shriek of joy that follows every splash. Or maybe it’s just the pure, unfiltered joy of childhood, and the parents who love it enough to pause and savor it.
That’s what this session with the Gammage family felt like from start to finish.
We met at Walnut Creek Park, a favorite of mine for its winding trails and rocky waterline, perfect for splashing and exploring. Lauren and Sam chose the spot because their little boy, Floyd, loves tossing rocks into the water, and they wanted something that felt natural and outdoorsy.
We hiked about ten minutes to reach the best area by the creek. It was hot—true Austin summer hot—but this crew didn’t let it phase them. In fact, the warmth of the evening matched the warmth between them. Lauren, Sam, and Floyd were relaxed, sweet, and so clearly in sync with each other. And they weren’t afraid to play.
Floyd brought along a very special friend: Ma, his well-loved stuffed dog. When Lauren explained the name, she said, “No idea where it came from! It was one of his first few words and it just stuck.” Ma made a few appearances in the photos and helped Floyd ease into the session (a reminder that comfort objects have their place in beautiful family portraits too).
One thing I loved about working with this family was how naturally they leaned into play. Sam and Lauren weren’t trying to orchestrate the “perfect” shot—they let Floyd lead. That meant chasing a few skipped rocks, playing games, and letting go of any pressure to pose.
I always start with some lightly guided portraits to help everyone warm up, and then we shift into prompted and candid moments. This shoot flowed beautifully in that way. There’s one photo where all three of them are reacting to a rock Floyd just threw into the water—arms flung, mouths open in the same delighted “whoa!” It’s a favorite of mine, because it captures that rare feeling when everyone is truly present and connected.
Of course, I always love pulling the parents aside for a few couple shots too. When I asked Sam to stand behind Lauren and wrap his arms around her, he laughed and said, “Like prom photos?” Then he wrapped her in the biggest hug, and both of them burst into laughter. That one photo says so much about their relationship, and it’s the kind of image I know will mean even more years down the road.
Another favorite moment? When Floyd reached out to grab Lauren’s face and plant a big kiss on her cheek. Her eyes squeezed shut, her smile beamed, and I couldn’t click the shutter fast enough. It was one of those moments that just radiates joy.
This was my first session with the Gammage family, but I left feeling like I’d known them for longer. They were kind, open, and fully invested in capturing the stage of life they’re in right now—messy, sweet, hot summer evenings and all.
If you’re dreaming of a relaxed, nature-filled session like this one, I’d love to help you plan something special for your own family. Whether that means skipping rocks, cuddling under trees, or just letting your toddler bring along their version of Ma—we’ll make space for the real stuff.
Let’s capture it together.
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.
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