Chasing little ones and dogs around for pictures will pretty much always result in fun photos! And this sweet family was an absolute joy to photograph.

They brought along their adorable little girl and their cute pup for a relaxed family session at Emigrant Lake, and it was the perfect setting for letting everyone run around, play, and just be themselves.

I love Emigrant Lake in the evening. The light gets so pretty as the sun starts to drop, and the lake, trees, and surrounding landscape give us plenty of variety without needing to spend the whole session driving from one location to another.

But honestly, the real magic was watching this little girl and her pup together.

There were plenty of giggles and silliness, which is exactly what I want during a family session. She got to ride around on Dad’s shoulders, give Mom and Dad plenty of sweet smooches, jump off logs, explore, and generally have the kind of fun that makes for the best childhood memories.

And then there were the moments with her pup. 🐾

Watching her walk side by side with her dog was so dang cute. Those little everyday interactions are the things I love capturing because they tell a much bigger story than everyone simply smiling at the camera.

This family was wonderfully playful and completely willing to let their daughter be a kid. They laughed with her, played with her, cuddled her, and followed her around while she explored.

That’s my kind of family photography.

I don’t need your toddler to sit perfectly still and smile at me. In fact, I’d much rather photograph them running, jumping, climbing, laughing, snuggling, and being their wonderfully chaotic little selves.

And throw a dog into the mix?

Even better.

The result is a gallery full of movement, personality, connection, and those little moments that feel like your actual family, rather than a perfectly posed version of it.

Thank you guys for such a fun evening! I loved chasing your little one and her furry sidekick around Emigrant Lake and capturing all the silliness, sweetness, and love between you.

Such a fun family! 🤍🐾

If you’re dreaming of your own photo session in Ashland, Oregon, I’d love to help bring it to life. Explore Ashland photography sessions →