a day at garfield park conservatory {k extended family session}

August seems to be the month for travel & family get-togethers. 

Since moving to Oak Park about 10 years ago, we travel back to Texas at least twice a year: during the holiday season & in August. It's during our August visit that we get to see many family members that aren't always around during the holidays. 

August is also the time when I get the most requests for extended family sessions. Coincidence? Maybe...but...probably not.

I love being able to photograph large families: cousins, grandparents with grandkids, grown siblings and their partners, etc., but since I am usually out of town in August, I typically have to refer these lovely families to other photographers.

Occasionally, the stars align for me...

We returned from Texas on Friday evening. On Saturday morning, I headed to Garfield Park Conservatory to spend some time with an awesome family of 13 (parents, grandparents, siblings, partners, cousins...). 

I say it all the time, but I'll say it again: I love my job.

It was a lovely day, with a beautiful family...

Happy Holidays & a family session sneak peek {garfield park conservatory}

“Happiness is having a large, loving, caring, close-knit family in another city.” 
― George Burns

I hope that everyone is having a lovely holiday season, spending time with family, spending time alone, or doing whatever it is that fills your heart. 

We are spending time with family, in Texas, and currently winding down the first leg of our trip. We will be driving south today, to spend a few days in Houston...followed by the third leg of the trip, Dallas. When all is said and done, we are/will be exhausted, but it will all be worth it!

With family in mind, I wanted to share a little sneak peek from my final session of 2016. This adorable family is celebrating once around the sun for their little guy! We spent a Sunday afternoon at Garfield Park conservatory, a perfect alternative when the windchill is negative 20. Enjoy!