This recent session at the arboretum made me giddy with glee. Not only did this session take place on the first truly warm day of the Spring, but it was with one of my favorite families and it was scheduled in the most gorgeous location.

I photographed this family before at the beach; in fact, it was during that particular session that my client announced her pregnancy to her family. It was such a special moment to capture. So, of course, I was elated when my client contacted me to schedule a session to commemorate her daughter’s first birthday. This milestone is so precious and important to document and it doesn’t have to be documented on a fancy backdrop, with the use of props or even a cake. Don’t get me wrong, I love studio birthday sessions, but one can also use the occasion as an opportunity to schedule family photos, which is exactly what my client chose to do.

My client opted to schedule her session at The Planting Fields Arboretum in Oyster Bay. This location is always beautiful, but on the day of this session, it was an explosion of colorful blooms. I have never seen so many colorful florals before and it served as an amazing backdrop for the photos. Although I brought along a few one props, we never ended up using them because we wanted the focus of these images to be on the family and those stunning florals. Sometimes less is more.

I captured tons of portraits of the kids and not only are these two adorable, but super cooperative as well. I also made sure to get some images of mom with her babies and of course the whole family as well.

I always love visiting this particular location. There is something so calming and soothing about walking through the lush gardens and it truly is a great location for any photo session.

Here are a few of my favorites from the day.