There’s something so special about photographing families year after year — watching little ones grow, parents settle into new seasons, and milestones unfold right in front of my camera. This summer family session at Topsmead was one of those sessions that reminded me exactly why I love what I do.
I’ve worked with this sweet family for the past five years, and I can honestly say I smile every time I see their name pop into my inbox. Their sessions are always full of laughter, connection, and a sense of joy that shines through in every image. This year was especially meaningful because their oldest is heading off to kindergarten! To celebrate this big milestone, they decided to mark the moment with updated family portraits — and what a perfect idea that was.
A Perfect Summer Evening at Topsmead
Originally, we had to reschedule this session when their little one got sick. But the new date turned out to be an absolute gift — a perfect summer evening with warm light, no humidity, and just enough breeze to keep everyone comfortable.
Topsmead State Forest in Litchfield, Connecticut is one of my favorite places for sessions, especially during the summer months. The fields, stone walls, and tree-lined paths offer endless options for beautiful backdrops. Every time I shoot there, it looks slightly different — the light shifts, the grass grows, and the flowers bloom in new ways.
Even though I photograph here often, I always make it a point to arrive early and walk the property before my families arrive. It’s important to check for surprises — like freshly mowed fields or unexpected construction — so I can find the perfect spot for that evening’s session.
Getting Ready for the Session
While I was scouting locations, the family was getting ready in the parking lot — one of those behind-the-scenes moments that makes me smile. (If you’ve ever changed kids in the back of a car before a session, you are definitely not alone!)
This mom worked with the Sharon Leger Photography stylist to coordinate their wardrobe, and they nailed it. The colors were soft, summery, and perfectly complemented Topsmead’s natural tones. My stylist helps every client feel confident and polished while keeping outfits cohesive, comfortable, and photo-ready — and this family’s look was a great example of that.
Outfit coordination is such an underrated part of family photography! It makes such a difference in how the final gallery feels. When colors and textures work together, your images look balanced, intentional, and timeless — which is exactly what we want for your family portraits.
Starting with “Grandparent” Shots
Once everyone was ready to go, we started the session with what I affectionately call the “grandparent shots.” These are the classic portraits — everyone smiling at the camera, standing together, looking polished and happy. They’re the photos that grandparents (and parents!) love to print, frame, and hang proudly on their walls.
I always do these first for a reason. When kids are fresh, calm, and not yet warmed up, we can get those traditional portraits easily. Once the energy kicks in — and it always does — it’s much harder to get everyone looking in the same direction! We always started with posed shots. I do this to ensure that we get them done right away. After that, the rest of the session can be relaxed and child-led.
From Posed to Playful
After we finished the classic portraits, it was time to explore, play, and let the magic happen! This family is always up for anything, and their willingness to have fun together is what makes their galleries shine every single year.
We wandered through the field as the sun dipped lower, stopping to let the kids run, twirl, and laugh. Some of my favorite moments came from these unplanned interactions — the way the little one clung to Dad’s leg, the giggles during a tickle break, and the sweet look between Mom and her soon-to-be kindergartener as they walked hand in hand.Even though it can feel a little chaotic in the moment (especially with young kids), I always remind parents that the beauty of family photography lies in the in-between moments. When you relax and just be together, the authenticity shines through — and that’s what makes your final images so full of life and emotion.
Why Topsmead Is a Favorite for Family Sessions
Topsmead State Forest is one of those locations that feels like it was made for family portraits. It offers such an incredible variety of scenery in one place — tall grassy fields, wildflower patches, charming stone walls, and those sweeping views of the hills at sunset.
For this summer family session at Topsmead, we took full advantage of the golden light filtering through the trees. The combination of soft natural light, the family’s neutral color palette, and the genuine joy between them created a gallery that’s both timeless and full of personality.
Whether I’m photographing toddlers or teens, Topsmead always gives families space to breathe, move, and interact naturally. It’s truly one of Connecticut’s hidden gems for family photography.
Capturing Milestones Through the Years
What made this session extra special was knowing how far this family has come. From newborn photos to milestone portraits and everything in between, it’s been an honor to watch their story unfold. Seeing their oldest head off to kindergarten feels like the start of a new chapter — and capturing that transition through portraits is such a meaningful way to preserve it.
As a photographer, I love being part of these little traditions. I love documenting the growth, the laughter, and the way families evolve over the years. Every photo becomes a piece of your story. I love knowing this is something you will be able to look back on when the kids are grown.
A Session to Remember
By the end of the evening, we had a gallery full of laughter, movement, and those beautiful “in-between” shots that make your heart skip a beat. The weather had been perfect, the light dreamy, and the kids full of personality.
This summer family session at Topsmead was everything I love about family photography — joyful, real, and full of connection.
When this family saw their final images, I loved their response. They said “It felt so chaotic while we were doing it, but the photos are even better than we imagined.”
And that’s the magic. You get to live in the moment, and I capture it in a way that lets you relive it forever.
Ready to Plan Your Own Family Session?
If this summer family session at Topsmead made you smile, I’d love to help you plan a similar session. No matter what you and your family are documenting, I’ll make the process simple, stress-free, and fun.
When you book a session with Sharon Leger Photography, you’ll get:
✨ Personalized wardrobe styling (with access to the complimentary Client Closet)
✨ A carefully scouted location chosen for light and variety
✨ Guidance through every step of your session
✨ A final gallery full of genuine connection and timeless beauty
Contact me today to reserve your summer session date at Topsmead! These warm, golden evenings are perfect for creating portraits that will fill your walls — and your heart — for years to come.
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 will be thoughtfully strategized. You will 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 Sharon Leger Photography is your Canton CT family photographer, please know that most spots book about six months out. Reach out today for current availability!
