In our next installment of the Fall 2024 Recap, we’re excited to feature the Hall Family photo session. This one was extra special because our connection with the Hall family goes beyond photography. Duane, a beloved teacher at my younger kids’ school, and his family have become familiar faces through school events over the past year. I also worked with Duane when he was featured on Legacy Makers,, the TV show where I serve as a set photographer. So, when Melanie reached out to book family photos, I knew it was going to be a fun and memorable session.

Setting the Scene: The Hall Family Session

In discussions with Melanie, we established two key goals for the session. The first was to capture beautiful individual portraits of their four children. The second was to highlight the love and connection that defines their family of six, based in Calgary. Melanie and Duane envisioned a mix of posed and candid moments, ensuring each child’s unique personality shone through. They wanted a gallery that celebrated their bond—a collection full of laughter, love, and the small, meaningful moments that make their family dynamic so special.

Choosing the Perfect Spot

This session took place shortly after our return from Hawaii over Thanksgiving. To my delight, many vibrant autumn leaves still clung to the trees in pockets around the city, thanks to an unusually warm fall. Some of my usual go-to locations had already shed their leaves, so I scouted for a spot closer to the Hall family’s home. I discovered a stunning grove of trees tucked into a hillside in Calgary’s Northwest. Its proximity—just an eight-minute drive from their home—worked perfectly with their after-school schedule.

The grove provided a magical autumnal backdrop, with its golden, orange and red hues perfectly complementing the family’s chosen outfits. The warm, natural setting enhanced both the posed and candid shots, giving the session a cozy and vibrant feel.

Moments That Tell Their Story

As the sun dipped lower, the air grew chillier, but the Hall kids were absolute troopers. Their cooperation and smiles didn’t waver, allowing us to capture a diverse range of poses and expressions. The resulting gallery was a stunning showcase of their family’s connection and joy.

This session was a beautiful celebration of the Hall family’s love and connection. Their gallery serves as a timeless reminder of the joy, laughter, and bonds they share—memories they’ll treasure for years to come.

Tips for Planning a Calgary Family Photo Session

Family photo sessions are about more than just pretty pictures—they’re about capturing the heart and connection you share. Here are some simple tips inspired by the Hall Family to help you plan a session that feels authentic and memorable:

• Choose a Location That Means Something to You
  Whether it’s a park near your home or a special spot where your family loves to spend time, picking a meaningful location adds an emotional layer to your photos. It helps everyone feel more relaxed and connected during the session.
• Coordinate Your Outfits, Don’t Match Exactly
  Instead of everyone wearing the same thing, select colors and tones that complement each other and your surroundings. This way, each family member’s personality can shine through while keeping the overall look cohesive and natural.
• Mix Posed and Candid Shots
  Some of the best photos come from those spontaneous moments—laughter, hugs, playful teasing—that show your family’s true dynamics. Combining these with a few classic posed portraits creates a well-rounded collection you’ll treasure.
• Relax and Have Fun
  Remember, the best memories happen when you’re fully present and enjoying the moment. Don’t worry about perfection—focus on your family’s unique story, and the photos will naturally reflect that joy.

Ready to Capture Your Family’s Story?

Every family has a story to tell, and at Laura Perron Photography, we’re here to help you capture it. Whether you prefer posed portraits, candid moments, or a mix of both, we’ll create a gallery that reflects your unique bond. Contact us today to book your session!