The McAtee Family | Fall Family Session in Eastern Colorado
There are some families you photograph that instantly feel like home—and for me, the McAtees are exactly that. I’ve known Meg for a while now; she teaches elementary, and I teach middle school, so our paths often cross at work. She’s also my daughter’s teacher, and let me tell you—she is truly one of the best. On top of that, I have the joy of teaching her son, Cecil. It’s funny to think about how we both take care of each other’s kids during the school year. There’s something really special about that connection, and it made this session feel even more meaningful.
When Meg reached out about a fall family session, she had one request—color. And boy, did Colorado deliver. We timed things perfectly, and the trees were showing off their best golden and red tones. The whole evening glowed, and it couldn’t have been a better backdrop for their family portraits. This is one of the many reasons I love offering outdoor family photos in Colorado—the natural beauty here does half the work for us.
The McAtees showed up in outfits that were spot on. The warm tones they chose not only popped against the fall colors but also tied everything together without looking overly planned. As a Colorado professional photographer, I always remind families that the right wardrobe can make such a difference in photos—and Meg absolutely nailed it.
As we walked through the leaves and found cozy little spots for photos, I couldn’t help but notice how quickly their boys are growing. Photographing families often makes me feel nostalgic, and this session was no exception. Watching this mom and dad laugh, play, and snuggle with their two boys reminded me just how fleeting these years are. It’s the kind of session that makes me extra grateful to do what I do.
What I loved most was how relaxed the evening felt. There was no pressure for perfection—just real moments of connection, the kind that translate beautifully into portraits. That’s always my goal as a Colorado portrait photographer: to create images that feel natural, true, and full of joy.
While most people know me for my Colorado photography studio work with newborns, there’s something so refreshing about stepping outside for family sessions. Whether it’s in the wide-open spaces of the plains, the colorful seasons in the trees, or even tucked-away creeks and fields, being an Eastern Colorado photographer allows me to showcase families in a way that feels personal to them.
To the McAtee family—thank you for trusting me to capture this season of your lives. Your love for each other shines so brightly, and it was a joy to freeze a little piece of it in time.
If you’re looking for a Colorado Springs photographer or a professional family photographer anywhere in Colorado who values genuine connection and beautiful, natural backdrops, I’d love to work with you. Sessions like this one with the McAtees are the reason I feel so lucky to be behind the camera.
