There’s something truly magical about a family session at Pheasant Branch Conservancy in Middleton, WI. This spot has everything I love in a location—open fields, dreamy golden light, a mix of tall grasses, winding trails, and even some gorgeous tree-covered areas. No matter the season, Pheasant Branch never disappoints. But one of the biggest reasons I love shooting here? It’s the perfect place to slow down, take our time, and let your family’s unique energy shine.
That’s one of the best things about booking a full session instead of a mini-session—time. Time for your kids to get comfortable with me (and my camera), time for everyone to relax and have fun, and time to explore and capture a variety of photos that truly reflect your family. If you’ve ever felt rushed in a quick session or wished you had more images to choose from, a full session is the way to go.
Giving the Kids Time to Warm Up
If you have little ones, you know that new situations can take a minute to adjust to. Some kids are ready to go from the second we start, while others need a little time to warm up. And that’s totally okay! When we have a full session, we’re never in a rush. We can start with some simple, low-pressure shots while they get used to me, the camera, and the idea of being in front of it.
Once they realize I’m not here to make them sit stiffly and say “cheese” the whole time, they relax. That’s when the real magic happens—the giggles, the snuggles, the silly faces, and the moments that truly capture their personalities. By the middle of the session, they’re usually running around, playing, and giving me those big, genuine smiles that make for the best photos.
More Time to Have Fun & Be Yourselves
A full session also gives everyone time to loosen up. Let’s be real—most adults don’t love being in front of the camera either! It takes a little time to shake off any awkwardness, settle in, and just enjoy being together as a family.
With a full session, we don’t have to rush through poses. We can take breaks, play games, and focus on interaction rather than stiff smiles. We’ll walk the trails, chase the kids around in the tall grasses, and maybe even stop to check out the creek or a cool fallen tree along the way. Those natural, unposed moments? Those are the ones you’ll treasure the most.
More Photos, More Variety, More Memories
One of the biggest benefits of a full session? The sheer number of photos you get! When we have time to explore and let moments unfold naturally, we end up with so much variety. Close-up cuddles, playful running shots, those quiet in-between moments—there’s room for it all.
At Pheasant Branch, we can move from wide open fields to tree-lined paths to tucked-away spots with the perfect golden light filtering through the branches. I love mixing in a combination of classic posed shots and more candid, interactive moments. This means that when you get your gallery, you won’t just see pictures—you’ll see the story of your family, full of love, connection, and joy.
The Hardest Part? Choosing Your Favorites
When I deliver a full session gallery, my biggest hope is that you have a hard time picking which ones to print because you love them all! My goal is for every image to bring you right back to that moment—your little one’s belly laughs, the way your partner looked at you, the warmth of the sun setting behind you.
Every time you walk past that framed print on your wall, I want it to make you smile. Because that’s what family photography is really about—capturing the love and happiness that makes your family uniquely yours.
Let’s Plan Your Family Session!
If you’ve been thinking about updating your family photos, there’s no better time than now. Pheasant Branch Conservancy is beautiful year-round, and I’d love to help you create images that will bring you joy for years to come. Let’s make some magic together!
