A Lewis Family Photo Tradition at Camden Lake Park
Every Thanksgiving, my baby brother Timothy, his wife Amelia, and their girls come up from Southern California to spend the holiday with family. And every year, one of the things we always do is family photos. It’s just part of our Thanksgiving now. This year, we headed to Camden Lake Park, and it ended up being one of my favorite sessions with them yet. The girls are at such a fun age, everyone was relaxed, and it felt more like hanging out together than “doing photos.”
Starting Things Off by the Willow Tree
We started the session near the willow tree, which is always a good spot. It’s calm, it looks pretty no matter what, and it’s a great place to ease into things.
Bailey and Reagan jumped right in. They know the drill by now and are totally comfortable being photographed. They listen well, take direction easily, and honestly do a lot of things without me even asking. That makes sessions like this feel really natural.
When the Girls Just Do Their Thing
This part of the session is such a good example of how Bailey and Reagan are now. They don’t need much help. They walk together, talk to each other, and just move through the session naturally.
They walked down the path holding hands without being told, stopped to look at each other, looked back at their parents, and then kept going. Timothy and Amelia were behind them, smiling and letting it all happen. It didn’t need to be perfect or posed — it was just them being a family.
Leaf Piles Are Always a Yes
Anytime there are leaves on the ground, this part is inevitable — and always fun. The girls jumped right in, throwing leaves, laughing, and having a great time.
This is usually when everyone forgets about the camera completely, which is exactly what you want. It’s loud, silly, and full of real smiles.
A Stop on the Bridge
The bridge at Camden Lake Park is always one of my favorite spots, especially in the fall. The trees around it add so much color, and it gives us a mix of walking shots and relaxed poses.
The girls did great here too — holding hands, sitting, and just being themselves while Timothy and Amelia stayed close. It’s one of those locations that works every single time.
By the Lake for a Change of Pace
We slowed things down a bit near the lake. This part of the session felt quieter and balanced out all the movement earlier.
Nothing fancy — just the family together, standing close, holding hands, and enjoying being there.
Sister Moments I’ll Always Love
Some of my favorite images are Bailey and Reagan walking back across the bridge together. They were completely in their own world.
The birds showing up was one of those moments you don’t plan, but it made the images even better. It felt like one of those small details you’ll always remember when you look back.
Ending the Session Together
We finished up back near the willow tree, walking hand in hand, and ended with the girls sitting together on the bench.
It felt like a perfect way to wrap things up — relaxed, happy, and very them.
Why These Photos Mean So Much to Me
Getting to photograph my baby brother and his family every year is something I don’t take lightly. It’s not just about photos — it’s about watching the girls grow, seeing how their family changes, and getting to be part of it in this way.
This Thanksgiving tradition is one of my favorites, and I’m already looking forward to next year.
To see other family sessions see below:
