This perfect spring weather we've been having, followed by an unusually cold winter, by Florida standards anyway, was just the excuse I needed for a family photo session in the gardens. And Washington Oaks Gardens State Park is my go-to spring spot for client spring portrait sessions.

The reason I love this location so much is the amount of little vignettes in such close proximity. It's a stacked location with lots of little alcoves to photograph. It works especially well for clients who have small children, which the beautiful Rollo family had in 3! I just loved spending this spring morning in the gardens with this sweet family from New York.

One of my favorite things about this spring garden session, besides Mom's perfect choice in clothing for her spring portraits (hello subtle florals and layered creams and pinks), was the calming presence this couple had. It literally rained during our portrait session, and we just used that time waiting for the rain to stop to tidy up and use the bathrooms. Mom, and Dad, were both so calm during their entire photo session, leaving no bad energy for the children to pick up on - key when having your family portraits done. You really want to try your best to emulate a positive vibe and the children will follow.

I love to photograph family portrait sessions in the garden, especially during the springtime when the flowers are blooming and the weather is still a bit cooler compared to the hot summer months. The roses had not quote bloomed when we were there this time, but you could see peeks of them beginning to bud and it made for such a beautiful, serene backdrop for this family's spring portrait session.

I've included a few of my favorites below. Thank you as always for reading!