I met this lovely crew on a bright May morning for their family photos at UVA. The couple are alumni of the University of Virginia, so it holds a special place in their hearts. Years ago, I had the joy of capturing them here with their oldest child as he took his first steps. Now, the family has grown and their stage of life has changed. They’ve even moved to a different city to plant their roots.

But when a conference called them back for work, they made a family trip of it and looked me up. I was so honored to be the Charlottesville photographer they remembered and called on from so many years ago. It’s always such a treat to stay connected with the families I meet, not matter where life takes us.

Behind the Scenes : Family photos at UVA

Since it was close to graduation weekend on the day of our session, we had to work around a lot of buzz that was happening on grounds. Group photos of sororities, friends cherishing the lawn for the last time – the area was alive with energy, but we didn’t want a bunch of strangers in their family photos, either, so we chose to wander around some of the lesser traveled walkways and gardens.

They shared how peaceful it felt to simply be there because their home in the city doesn’t have anywhere so lush and wide open.

I wanted to make sure I captured the essence of that feeling for their family photos at UVA – the lightness and openness they felt in that space.

Even though the kids are still pretty young, the couple wanted to capture images with some of the beautiful architecture that makes UVA such a storied place. We played with the timeless columns and lawns, the marble and stone backdrop of the Rotunda, roaming and enjoying the gorgeous spring breeze as we went.

I imagine them sharing these images with their kids one day as they prepare for college applications, recalling their time together at this place with so much history.

While most of my sessions lean towards casual and home environments, the historic architecture and refined style added a timeless elegance to the photos.

My goal was to blend that innate elegance with the playful and relaxed vibe of what it means to be with your people and delight in one another.

As we played in the sun, their personalities shined through. I knew the oldest kid loves soccer, so I had tucked a little soccer ball in my bag for them to kick around on the lawn. And I always have a little container of bubbles with me for outdoor family photos because… I mean, what kid doesn’t love bubbles?!

Charlottesville is so rich in beauty, but the people always shine through.

I’m eternally grateful to create alongside both.

Interested in honoring your time in Charlottesville with family photos? Let’s connect and make something meaningful that speaks to your season of life together.

You may also like:

All the details about family photos with me

How to plan Charlottesville family photos that feel like you

Tips for Extended Family Sessions in Charlottesville