This adorable family session in Kennebunk didn’t exactly go as planned—and honestly, I wouldn’t change a thing.

We were originally scheduled to meet at Gooch’s Beach, but Maine weather had other plans. Rain clouds rolled in, and we needed a plan B. That’s when Mom sent me a video clip of the side yard at her parents’ home, where they were staying while visiting from out of town. It wasn’t a big, sprawling location—but I could see the light was good, and that’s all I really needed.

When I arrived, I spotted the cutest little flower garden—right in the neighbor’s front yard next to the driveway. A tiny patch of lawn, just steps from the road, became the perfect backdrop. And you’d never guess it from the final images, but most of the session happened right there, on that small slice of grass surrounded by blooms.

What made this session truly shine, though, wasn’t just the light or the garden—it was this family’s energy. Mom and Dad were all in. They laughed, played, and fully embraced the chaos (as any parent knows, there’s always a little chaos). That openness, that willingness to just go with it, is what makes magic happen.

This session is proof that you don’t need a “perfect” location for beautiful family photos. What you do need?

1. Good light
2. Parents ready to have fun and roll with it

When those two things line up, I can do the rest—and capture the smiles, the sweet moments, and all the in-between joy.

Mom’s Message to me:

“Ahhh these are so beautiful – seriously thank you so much!!! These are memories we will cherish forever! I will let you know when we are back in Maine next spring for follow up family photos if you are available :)”

Messages like this truly are the best part!

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If you are ready to book your own backyard session contact me and lets get planning!

Another example of an in-home session I did during the late winter