Angie was a bit tentative. She was worried that 21-month old Gavin might be uncooperative and wasn't sure if they'd be able to get nice family portraits. I mean, let's face it... aren't all kids at that age uncooperative at the best of times? It's the start of the independent phase, when holding them turns into a struggle and they love to test the speed of their run (usually as they run away from you). And heaven forbid you ask them to sit in one spot for more than a few seconds. Whew! So, given this, I could understand her initial hesitation.

But I just smiled and told her not to worry.

Why? Because I operate a bit differently than other photographers. And because my sessions aren't rigidly structured, it allows room for all the personalities in play... even the huge ones in teeny tiny packages.

Angie decided to give it a go, and signed her family up for a holiday mini-session. And I was more than thrilled.

We wandered. We played. Gavin ran down the pathway and found a stick to play with. There was a game of hide-and-seek behind a tree. There was lots of leaf-throwing and bubble blowing. And lots and lots of smiles from everyone, little Gavin included.

Here are a few of my favorites from the morning:

Click here to see even more images from their mini-session.

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Interested in a session of your own, even if you don't have time left this year for one? Not to worry: gift cards are available, and they make perfect stocking stuffers for your loved ones (or even yourself). Just click here to purchase.