For more than 10 years, this sweet Mocksville, NC family has shown up for their annual photo session with me—and every year, it feels like catching up with old friends. I love when families make space, even just 10–15 minutes, to document their life as it is right now. Time moves so fast, and these quick sessions become such meaningful markers of each season of life.

This year felt extra special because their oldest is now in college, and they still made it a priority to get everyone together. I know coordinating schedules can feel impossible (especially when the kids get older!), but this family is the perfect reminder that it can be done—and it’s always, always worth it.

I also know family photos aren’t everyone’s favorite activity. Sometimes someone isn’t excited, sometimes the weather is unpredictable, sometimes schedules are tight… but I can honestly say I’ve never had a family walk away saying, “Wow, that was so hard.” Once we’re done and they see their photos, all the effort suddenly feels small compared to the gift of having images they’ll cherish for years.

The fall color in Mocksville showed up beautifully for us this year, giving us the perfect backdrop of warm leaves, soft light, and a whole lot of laughter. It was simple, relaxed, and full of those natural moments that tell the real story of a family.

Whether your kids are little or already off at college, it’s never too late—or too complicated—to capture a new chapter. All it takes is saying yes and showing up. I’ll take care of the rest.