Most of the family portraits floating around on social media these days are in some location chosen for its rustic or urban appeal. And while I love doing those sessions, there is something special about a portrait session done at the family’s home. I’ve been looking at a lot of our old family pictures of when I was growing up, and I cherish the ones in and around our family homestead, even they would never make Better Homes and Gardens, much less Architectural Digest.

We elected to do this session at home simply because the family wanted to include their furry family members, and it would be much less stressful for the dogs if they could stay at home rather than be dragged around an urban locale.

They had a great wooded backyard, which made a lovely natural backdrop for the kids’ portraits.

Family session at home Family session at home Portrait of boy Portrait of boy Portrait of girl Portrait of girl Family session at home

We included the dogs in the full family picture on the back porch. The dogs were as friendly as could be and not at all fazed by the photographic lights.

Family portrait at home

Their home was lovely. I think this is the classic American dream picture.

Family portrait at home

Couple at home

Thank you, Theresa and Mark, for letting me share the pictures of your beautiful family at home!