From Pines to Lakes

A Family Adventure at the LBJ Grasslands

One of the reasons I love photographing families at LBJ National Grasslands is how much variety and natural beauty can be found all within a short distance. This session felt less like a photoshoot and more like an evening adventure exploring some of my favorite hidden spots with a wonderful family.

We began our session tucked away in a pine forest area where the soft light filtered beautifully through the trees. One of my favorite moments from the evening was photographing mom reading Adventures of Huckleberry Finn to her boys while they sat together among the pines. It created such a timeless, peaceful feeling and fit the setting perfectly. We also captured several family portraits there with the beautiful pine forest as the backdrop.

From there, we made our way to a nearby fishing hole where the boys pulled out their fishing rods. The water added such a peaceful atmosphere, and I loved capturing both candid moments and family portraits with the shoreline behind them.

As the evening light softened, we moved into one of the grassy open areas of the LBJ Grasslands. We spread out a blanket and captured relaxed moments of the family talking, laughing, and simply enjoying time together. We also got one of my favorite shots—the classic walking family photo that always feels so full of life and movement.

We ended at the lake just as the light began to fade. The family stepped right into the water, clothes and all, laughing as they splashed and got their feet wet. Those carefree moments always end up becoming some of the most memorable images.

The weather was absolutely beautiful, and it reminded me again why I love this location so much. The LBJ Grasslands offer such a unique combination of pine forests, open fields, water, and winding trails all in close proximity, making every session feel a little different and full of possibilities.