The Merrills: A Cozy December Session

It might sound weird (as a portrait photographer and all), but I'm saying it anyway: The fewer photos I have of you looking at the camera, the better.

Not that I don't take those kinds of photos (I do, promise), but unposed, in-between moments have always been my favorites. They're more real and more intimate. Plus, it's my job to photograph your connection with each other, not with me.

So when I met with Megan a few days before her family session and she told me she wasn't looking for a lot of posed shots, I was one happy photographer.

And this was perfect, because their family was so fun to hang out with! Two-year-old Camden kept me on my feet as we explored the neighboring orchard and ran up and down the hill, and 6-month-old Madison was all smiles — despite the cold. She was such a trooper! (Also, if you need holiday fashion inspiration, just copy her look.)

About their location:
We shot at Megan's parents' house in Troutville, Va. Surrounded by gorgeous mountain views, a wide-open backyard and an apple orchard, it was an amazing spot for their cozy family session. Not to mention, the house provided a nice little getaway from the cold.