One of my favorite things about photographing families year after year is getting to see how everyone changes and grows. This family has been with me since their twin boys were one-year-old, and every time they reach out, I know we’re going to create something special together. This year’s session was extra meaningful because we decided to take their portraits at a place that means so much to them — their lakehouse.

There’s something magical about planning a lake family photo session. It’s not just about the location, it’s about capturing the memories you’ve built there: summer evenings spent on the dock, laughter echoing across the water, and the comfort of a place that feels like home.

Choosing the Perfect Location

Each year, this family loves to choose a new spot for their portraits. We’ve done meadows, fields, and even some tucked-away trails, but this time they wanted something deeply personal. The lake has been their home base for years — a place where the boys have grown up exploring, fishing, and splashing around.

When Mom mentioned wanting to do this session there, I knew it was the perfect idea. A lake family photo session feels different from any other type of portrait. There’s a peacefulness to the water, a slower pace, and a beautiful mix of natural textures that make every photo feel authentic and meaningful.

To make it extra special, we decided not to stick to just one spot. Instead, we planned to move around to different areas that hold memories for them — places they spend time as a family and where the boys love to play.

A Day on the Water

We started the evening down by the lake, with the soft light reflecting off the water. The boys were full of energy and ready to explore, which made for some fun, natural photos right away. After capturing a few shots along the shoreline, we made our way toward the nearby cliffs.

This part of the session was such an adventure. I actually hopped onto a boat to capture the family from the water, which gave us an incredible perspective. You could see the cliffs rising behind them, the lake stretching out in front, and the family framed perfectly against it all. Once I was done shooting from the boat, I hiked back up to join them and captured more portraits near the stone steps leading down to the water. The mix of views gave their gallery a beautiful variety — sweeping wide shots balanced with intimate family moments.

It’s one of the reasons I love customizing each session to fit the family’s story. When you can incorporate a location that already means something to you, the images automatically feel more personal and real.

Finishing at the Dock

After wrapping up by the cliffs, we made our way to their dock as the light softened into that golden, glowy glow that makes summer evenings so beautiful. The reflections on the water, the gentle breeze, and the calmness of the lake made it the perfect ending to the evening.

We took traditional family portraits first — the kind grandparents love to frame — and then transitioned into more relaxed, playful shots. The twins leaned over to splash their hands in the water, Mom and Dad shared a quiet moment, and everything about it felt natural and effortless.

Just as we were finishing up, their close friends arrived with their own kids, and we captured both families together. This has become an annual tradition for them, and I love watching how each family grows and changes every year. The kids are taller, the smiles are bigger, and every session adds another chapter to their story at the lake.

Why Your Happy Place Makes the Best Backdrop

One of the things I always encourage families to think about when planning their session is this: where do you feel most at peace? Maybe it’s your backyard, your favorite hiking trail, or a little stretch of sand at the beach that feels like yours. That’s what I like to call your “happy place.”

When you schedule your family portraits somewhere that holds meaning, your photos do more than capture faces — they capture a feeling. Every time you look at your gallery, you’ll be transported right back to that spot. You’ll remember the smell of the water, the sound of the wind, and the comfort of being surrounded by people you love in a place that feels like home.

That’s what made this lake family photo session so special. It wasn’t about creating perfect poses or finding the most dramatic backdrop. It was about documenting a family in their element — barefoot on the dock, wind in their hair, completely themselves.

If you have a location that feels like your family’s special place, let’s talk about it. You’d be surprised how creative we can get to make it happen. And since my own family travels throughout the year, there’s a good chance our paths might cross near your favorite getaway.

Making Your Session Your Own

No two families are the same, which means no two sessions should be either. That’s one of the reasons I love what I do — each experience is tailored to fit your family’s story.

For this session, it was the combination of lake views, adventurous energy, and the comfort of a familiar spot that made it perfect. But for your family, it might be something completely different. Maybe you want a cozy in-home session or a breezy beach evening. Whatever it is, the key is to choose a setting that feels like you.

If you love being near the water, a lake family photo session could be just what you’re looking for. There’s something timeless about the combination of water, sky, and connection that makes these sessions so beautiful. And when you add in the personal element — your lakehouse, your dock, or even a place you visit every summer — it becomes so much more than a portrait session. It becomes a memory preserved in time.

Ready to Plan Your Own Lake Session?

If this story made you think about your own happy place, maybe it’s time to start planning your own lake family photo session. Whether you have a lakehouse you love or just want to capture your family surrounded by nature, I’d love to help you make it happen.

When you book a session with Sharon Leger Photography, you’ll receive:
• A detailed planning guide to help you prepare and feel confident
• Styling assistance and access to my Client Closet
• A relaxed, full-service experience from start to finish
• A gallery filled with images that reflect your family and your story

Reach out today to start planning your session — and if your favorite place happens to be near the water, even better. Let’s make it an evening full of laughter, connection, and memories that will last long after summer ends.

Choosing Sharon as Your Canton CT Family Photographer

Why do you want Sharon Leger Photography as your Canton CT family photographer? First, you will be fully prepared for your session. This preparation includes detailed emails and videos before your session, in addition to a prep guide and questionnaire. Second, your session is thoughtfully strategized so that you get way more images than you ever thought possible. And finally, as a former elementary school teacher, Sharon is skilled at engaging and connecting with clients of all ages. Shy toddler? No problem! Cranky husband? I got you, mama! 

To learn more about Sharon Leger Photography, explore the website or follow Sharon on Instagram or Facebook. Please send inquiries through the website only. Please note that the website includes all relevant pricing and booking information.

If you are interested in booking Sharon Leger Photography as your Canton CT family photographer, please know that most spots book about six months out. Reach out today for current availability!